In the UK, electricity suppliers are offering payments to 1.4 million homes and businesses to reduce electricity consumption to avoid blackouts. This step was taken due to predicted temperatures below zero degrees which will cause an increase in electricity demand. The initiative, known as Demand Flexibility Services, is hosted by National Grid and launched for the first time this winter.

Under the scheme, households receive payments of up to £10 per day to reduce their electricity consumption. The program was implemented last winter and used twice. National Grid reports that this year, 1.4 million homes and businesses have signed up to participate in the scheme.

A National Electricity Grid spokesperson stated that this was merely a precautionary measure and did not mean there was a risk to the electricity supply. This is simply a way to ensure there is enough additional capacity to meet increased demand during cold weather. The spokesperson also emphasized that the public does not need to worry about the situation.

In addition to these initiatives, the Rough gas storage site, owned by British Gas, has begun releasing gas into the network to meet the country’s heating needs. This is the first time this winter that gas has been injected into the network. The Rough storage site, located off the coast of Yorkshire, accounts for more than 50% of the UK’s total gas storage.

Following these steps, Madsen Pirie, president of the Adam Smith Institute, suggested that governments focus on improving energy supplies and gas storage facilities rather than encouraging consumers to reduce their electricity consumption. Pirie argues that there is untapped gas extraction potential in the UK, which could prevent future gas shortages.

Frequently asked questions

Q: How does the Request Flexibility Service work?
A: In this scheme, payments are offered to households and businesses to reduce electricity consumption during times of high demand.

Q: Is there a risk of power outage?
A: This action is precautionary and is intended to ensure there is sufficient additional capacity to meet increased demand. There is no risk of immediate power outage.

Q: How does a Coarse Gas Storage Site help meet heating needs?
A: The Rough storage site releases gas into the power grid to supply the nation’s heating needs. It accounts for more than 50% of total gas storage in the UK.