The electricity network operator (ESO) said it expects supply to be tight at times this winter, most likely in the first half of December. When that happens, the UK is set to pay higher prices to ensure it gets the electricity it needs from abroad, the ESO said in a report. The UK imports electricity through cables connected to other countries, notably France, Belgium and the Netherlands. “There are risks and uncertainties this winter as a direct result of potential shortfalls in Europe’s natural gas supply,” ESO said. “As noted elsewhere, while Britain is not dependent on Russian gas to the extent that the rest of Europe is, it is clear that cutting gas flows to Europe could have ramifications, including very high prices.” France’s nuclear reactors, many of which have been shut down, may also be unavailable this winter, he said – citing ongoing maintenance issues. The ESO said it has worked with the government to delay the closure of five coal-fired power stations in case they are needed to generate power this winter. The company is also “exploring options” to incentivize energy users to reduce their use during peak hours. “We expect there will be sufficient available capacity to meet demand,” it said. Jess Ralston, senior analyst at the Energy and Climate Information Unit, said: “We may well get through the winter without any major incidents, but the gas bill at the end is likely to be extortionate. “With calls to extend the £15 billion winter energy package, the government will be kicking itself for not investing more in energy efficiency over the years. “High gas costs will add £2,000 to bills from October, but this could rise with Putin already cutting the flow to Germany.” The analysis reflects Russia’s decision to reduce its natural gas flow to Europe to just 20% of Nord Stream 1 pipeline capacity, which has pushed up wholesale prices. There are fears that this will worsen further if supplies are cut off completely. The UK imports less than 5% of its natural gas from Russia – and has pledged to phase out imports by the end of the year – but is affected by fluctuations in global markets. Experts say household energy bills will rise from £1,971 a year to £3,420 this autumn, before reaching £3,850 in January. Read more: Record electricity price paid as London narrowly avoids heat blackout The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy said the report showed that “the UK’s secure and diverse energy supplies will ensure that households, businesses and industry can be confident they can get their electricity and gas needed”. “Britain is in a fortunate position, with access to its own natural gas reserves in the North Sea, imports from reliable partners such as Norway, the second largest LNG (liquefied natural gas) port infrastructure in Europe and a gas supply backed by strong legal contracts”. he said. “Thanks to a massive investment of £90 billion in clean energy over the last decade, we have one of the most reliable and diverse energy systems in the world and unlike Europe we are not dependent on Russian energy imports.”
Energy saving tips from the Energy Saving Trust
Avoid overfilling the kettle Insulate your water tank, pipes and radiators Only operate the dishwasher when it is full Change your bathroom with a shower Spend less time in the shower Avoid the dryer Use your washing machine on a 30 degree cycle instead of higher temperatures and reduce usage Turn off the lights Durable windows and doors Turn off your devices in standby mode.
