The National Energy System Operator (Neso) has issued an unusual electricity margin notice warning that power supplies will be "squeezed" between 7pm and 10pm on Wednesday, June 24, as sweltering temperatures place significant strain on the nation's power network. This rare summertime alert comes as the UK braces for potentially record-shattering heat, with temperatures forecast to reach 40°C across parts of England and Wales.
Details of the Alert
Neso, responsible for ensuring electricity supply meets demand, confirmed it had issued an electricity margin notice to signal to the market that more capacity needs to be made available, enabling production to be ramped up if required. Such notices are far more common during winter months when heating demand peaks. A spokesman for Neso said: "Our forecasts are showing tight margins on the electricity system for tomorrow evening. This is due to the impact of extremely high temperatures affecting Great Britain and the continent and low wind." Neso described it as a "routine tool" and stressed that it "does not mean electricity supply is at risk."
Heatwave Conditions
The blistering conditions are the result of a "heat-dome" settling over western Europe, which has unleashed extreme weather across the continent. Temperatures could reach 40°C on Wednesday and Thursday, placing strain on the electricity network by reducing the efficiency of various processes, including nuclear power stations, gas facilities, and water cooling systems. Additionally, households are consuming more electricity for fans and air conditioning to stay cool.
