Britain's electricity grid operator has issued an industry warning that the power supply could be squeezed on Wednesday evening as extreme heat puts pressure on the system.
Rare Summer Intervention
The National Energy System Operator (Neso), responsible for balancing the nation's electricity supply and demand, has issued a so-called electricity margin notice. The rare summer call out signals to the electricity market that additional capacity may be required, allowing for increased production if necessary to prevent shortages.
The notices are more typically sent during winter when demand for heating is higher, making this summer intervention particularly noteworthy amidst record-breaking temperatures.
Neso Statement and Causes
A spokesperson for Neso said: “Our forecasts are showing tight margins on the electricity system for (Wednesday) evening. This is due to the impact of extremely high temperatures affecting Great Britain and the continent and low wind.”
Neso said it was a “routine tool” and stressed that it “does not mean electricity supply is at risk”. The notice is in effect for the period between 7pm and 10pm on Wednesday.
Extreme Heat and System Pressure
Temperatures could hit 40C on Wednesday and Thursday in some parts of England and Wales as a “heat-dome” settling over western Europe has brought extreme conditions across the continent.
The extreme heat can put pressure on the electricity system by making processes less efficient, including nuclear power plants, gas stations and water cooling systems. It also means people are using more electricity for fans and air conditioning to keep cool.
