The organization responsible for managing the energy grid in the UK has appealed to electricity companies amid scorching temperatures during a heatwave. An uncommon red alert for extreme heat has been declared in certain regions of England and Wales, set to persist until 9 pm on Thursday.
Weather forecasts indicate temperatures could soar to approximately 37-38°C in southern England, with a potential peak of 39°C. Consequently, there has been a surge in the purchase and utilization of fans and air conditioning units by individuals and workplaces to combat the heat, resulting in heightened electricity demand.
The National Energy System Operator (NESO) took action by issuing an Electricity Margin Notice on Tuesday. This notice urges power station owners and other energy providers to increase their supplies, if necessary, to avert the risk of power shortages. The surge in electricity demand is anticipated to peak in the evening.
NESO emphasizes that this measure is standard protocol but underscores the precarious balance between power demand and supply in the UK. The situation is exacerbated by soaring temperatures in Europe affecting electricity imports and reduced wind farm output due to calm conditions.
The heatwave has prompted a rare red health warning, leading to school closures and transportation disruptions. The scorching classrooms have forced numerous schools, mainly in Bristol, Hampshire, Berkshire, Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Dorset, and Wiltshire, to adjust hours or shut down.
A spokesperson from NESO stated, “Our forecasts indicate tight electricity margins for tomorrow evening due to the extreme heatwave affecting Great Britain and the continent, coupled with low wind levels.” The issuance of an Electricity Margin Notice is a precautionary measure to ensure additional generation capacity is available, without indicating an imminent electricity shortage.
Earlier in January, NESO issued a similar alert due to plummeting temperatures, anticipating increased electricity usage as people stayed indoors using gas or electric heating.