National Grid has stated that the risk of winter blackouts in the UK has been reduced, despite earlier warnings of potential power cuts. The company now expects households to face no problems under its base case scenario, thanks to additional measures and energy supplies.
In a worst-case scenario, if gas supplies run extremely low, British households could face planned power cuts of up to three hours at a time. National Grid described this as an unlikely event, but noted that supply interruptions could occur if the energy crisis escalates. Cuts would likely happen at peak times, such as between 4pm and 7pm, and customers would be warned at least a day in advance.
National Grid has secured deals with power companies EDF, Drax, and Uniper to keep additional coal-fired generators on standby. It will also launch a scheme from November 1, offering payments to households and businesses that reduce electricity use at peak times. Households with smart meters could earn around £10 per day for cutting usage, such as avoiding washing machines or ovens.
Prime Minister Liz Truss has pledged there will be no energy rationing this winter, though she stopped short of guaranteeing no blackouts. The government has denied plans for a public information campaign to encourage energy saving. National Grid emphasized that the UK is less reliant on Russian gas than mainland Europe, but could still face knock-on effects from European shortages.
