UK Power Grid Faces Strain as Freezing Weather Drives Demand Surge

Energy operators secure high-cost emergency electricity to maintain supply during a severe cold snap and low wind output.

The National Energy System Operator (NESO) issued a precautionary electricity margin notice due to tight power supply margins during peak hours on Wednesday evening.
Two gas power stations were paid over £12 million collectively for three hours of electricity to meet demand, with prices reaching up to £5,000 per megawatt hour.
Freezing temperatures, forecast to drop as low as -16°C, and low wind power output have significantly strained the UK’s electricity grid.
The UK’s reliance on gas-fired power has increased this winter following the shutdown of its last coal power station in 2024.
NESO assured that electricity supply is not at risk but warned of potential further price spikes later in the week due to continued high demand and limited capacity.