Storm Arwen should not be seen as a one off

Almost a week on from Storm Arwen and there are still many houses in the UK without power.

This is in part down to underinvestment in the energy distribution workforce, meaning it is harder and takes longer for companies to fix problems.

Prospect is warning that unless the government makes sure distribution companies’ business plans include proper provision for investing in the workforce, the events of the last few days will be repeated.

Sue Ferns, Prospect Senior Deputy General Secretary, said:

“Severe as its impact has been, Storm Arwen should not be viewed as a one-off event. The UK’s journey to net zero must include increased investment in the multi-skilled workforce we need to respond effectively.

“Prospect members have worked tirelessly to restore electricity supplies in recent days, but even with inter-company arrangements to share staff across regions, thousands of customers have been left without power for many hours or days. As the industry faces many skilled staff retiring soon, now must be time to invest in the workforce.

“1 December was deadline day for companies to submit their business plans to Ofgem – the government must ask whether they are fit for the future.”