National Grid electricity margin notice shows ensuring security of supply cannot be left to market forces

National Grid has issued an electricity margin notice which means that we are not generating enough energy in the UK to meet demand.

 

Wind generation is low due to a lack of wind and some other generators are offline for maintenance and this is coinciding with cold weather and so higher demand. As a result some coal power stations which has been shutdown are having to be fired up.

Sue Ferns, Prospect senior deputy general secretary, responded:

“This move from National Grid highlights the importance of a varied, balanced and reliable low carbon energy mix.

“The government has to take full responsibility for ensuring the country’s energy security and that means leading from the front with a coherent energy strategy. This cannot simply be left to market forces.”