Uk to have blackouts next winter if coal plants close
The Industrial Communities Alliance, which has released a report into the security of the UK’s electricity supply, argues that the shutting down of Ferrybridge, Eggborough, Fiddlers Ferry and Rugeley coal stations, along with Longannet in Scotland, threatens to remove an estimated 7,000 MW of capacity from the grid, more than 10 per cent of the UK’s entire electricity generating capacity.
‘Lights Out!’ claims that there is a distinct lack of gas-fired capacity ready to be brought back onto the grid, as well as a shortage of replacement generating capacity, stating that the UK is “perilously exposed” to plant breakdowns, planned outages that overrun, cold spells that add to peak electricity demand, reduced flows over the interconnectors when the continent needs more power and calm weather that cuts output from wind turbines.
The analysis argues that Britain doesn’t have a big surplus of generating capacity, while also emphasising that the five power stations scheduled for closure are not “unserviceable,” citing how all of the plants have been retro-fitted with anti-pollution equipment, as well as highlighting the current low price of coal as major reasons why the power stations could continue supplying the grid “for years to come.”
A spokesman for the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) explains how the government is clear that providing a secure supply of affordable energy for our families and businesses is “non-negotiable,” while also dismissing claims of blackouts.
“There will be no impact on this winter and action has already been taken to secure extra capacity for next winter. We will continue to work alongside National Grid and Ofgem to take whatever additional steps are necessary to protect our energy supply,” the spokesperson said.
The report claims that at least one of the coal stations due to close this year has to remain operational in order to deliver the capacity needed to maintain a stable electricity supply, while also stating that the National Grid must now invite tenders for at least 2,500 MW of additional generating capacity.
A spokesperson for the National Grid states that the organisation continues to work closely with industry, the DECC and Ofgem in order to keep a secure supply of power.
“We have already concluded successful tenders for an extra 3,600MW for the winter of 2016-17 as well as continuing to focus on growing demand reduction activities,” the spokesman said.
Energy watchdog Ofgem added: “We are confident that electricity supplies will be secure next winter but there is no room for complacency. There are a range of tools to manage the electricity system.
“National Grid will be conducting its detailed review of energy security for next winter in due course. National Grid’s review will take into consideration all relevant factors.”
