Comment on National Grid Winter Outlook

Commenting on the publication of National Grid’s Winter Outlook, Dr Simon Cran-McGreehin, Head of Analysis at the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) said: “The UK has already started the work of creating a more modern, dynamic, flexible power grid that responds to both supply and demand, and today that translates into National Grid’s confidence that the lights will stay on this winter. But margins are tight and the current system still leaves households vulnerable to volatile international gas markets and the geopolitical game-playing of President Putin.

“To reduce exposure to fossil fuels and create greater energy independence, the implication is clear: the UK should build more offshore wind as the Government plans to do and accelerate investment in grid flexibility bringing technologies such as batteries and demand management into the mix. Let’s not forget that the simple way to insulate against energy shocks is to insulate. Shifting us away from our current gas addiction should be a top priority for the upcoming heat and buildings strategy if we want to secure a clean and homegrown energy system for the future.”