Rare call for more electricity supplies as wind power drops across Europe

The National Energy System Operator (Neso) issued a rare "electricity margin notice" on Monday morning, calling for more power generation to boost the system's supply amid low wind power forecasts across Europe. This comes after several recent margin alerts, including the first during the summer, as heatwaves increased demand while limiting generation.

Neso announced a shortfall of nearly 1,400 megawatts in its electricity supply margins between 6 am and 11 am. The notice revealed that the shortfall was reduced to 500 megawatts after a pre-dawn review, with no further contingency power needed. Neso could still request additional power generation between 8 am and 11 am.

Neso's spokesperson emphasized that this notice was a routine and precautionary measure, not a warning of power cuts. The grid remains secure, and customers do not need to take any action. Despite no grid constraints or a forecast to export electricity to Europe, the shortfall may be attributed to low wind speeds in Europe.

Kathryn Porter, an energy consultant, explained that Neso paid premium prices for power imports from Europe, with costs up to ten times the market rate. The system operator is facing scrutiny due to a recent investigation revealing cultural issues within the control room. This investigation followed a series of margin notices, leading to claims of control room interference by Neso's corporate affairs team.