UK blackout fears: Brits warned of power cut risks as cyberattack concerns grow
Britain is preparing for the possibility of major electricity disruptions, with new emergency arrangements allowing rolling power cuts and the […]
The United Kingdom is bracing for potential electricity disruptions, with emergency arrangements allowing rolling power cuts and cybersecurity experts warning of increased risks from artificial intelligence. The National Energy System Operator (NESO) has approved changes that enable NESO to implement a Demand Control Rotation Protocol, which could result in selected areas experiencing power outages of up to three hours with as little as eight hours' notice.
Hospitals, water treatment facilities, and other essential sites would be prioritized for protection. The move comes as cyber security concerns grow, with the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) warning that AI-powered malware could be widely used in ransomware attacks on critical national infrastructure by 2028. Despite these concerns, NESO's Winter Outlook for 2026/27 predicts a surplus of electricity, indicating no immediate risk of widespread power cuts.
The UK government has also launched its Be Ready campaign, encouraging households to take simple precautions to manage without essential services for up to three days, such as having a torch, battery-powered radio, drinking water, non-perishable food, and a charged power bank.
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