UnHerd with Freddie Sayers
Will blackouts come to Britain?
Jan 15, 2025
Catherine Porter, an independent energy consultant, delves into the UK's precarious energy situation. The discussion reveals how recent near-blackout incidents expose vulnerabilities in the national grid. Porter highlights the critical balance between renewable energy reliance and gas imports, stressing the need for greater transparency. As Britain approaches its 2030 Net Zero goal, the potential for blackouts looms large, urging public preparedness. The conversation also considers the role of nuclear energy and the complexities of transitioning to reliable energy sources.
47:02
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Quick takeaways
- The UK's transition to renewable energy sources complicates the balance between supply and demand, increasing the risk of blackouts by 2030.
- The recent incidents of tight energy supply margins reveal the necessity for greater transparency and robust management systems within the National Grid.
Deep dives
Understanding Electricity Generation and Demand
Electricity needs to be generated in real-time to meet demand, as there is minimal storage capacity available at a large scale. Traditional energy sources, such as coal, gas, oil, and nuclear, have historically fed the grid, while demand was relatively predictable based on factors like weather. The National Energy System Operator (NISO) oversees the balancing of supply and demand, adjusting the activities of power stations based on real-time energy prices. This complex system ensures the necessary electricity flow but presents vulnerabilities, especially during periods of low generation.
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