Most countries that have faced an energy crisis have only one way out. However, one of the largest global economies has an alternative solution to all the issues, including trouble with energy supply. The UK operator of energy systems is ready to launch coal power stations in case of a sharp drop in temperatures this winter. Notably, wood-burning stoves are the next stage.
National Grid, the electricity system operator for Great Britain, said that two reserve coal power plants were fully ready for work. The fact is that the weather in the UK has become unexpectedly cold, thus boosting the demand for energy. Notably, the available capacity is enough to keep people warm. However, in case of emergency, coal power stations will maintain the situation stable. Thus, a large biomass power station in Drax, North Yorkshire, is able to provide uninterrupted electricity supplies if needed. Earlier, the government was planning to close this power station, but then it was decided to keep it in reserve.
CEO of National Grid John Pettigrew warned Britons about possible power outages in January and February of 2023. He explained this by the fact that “the current gas supplies to the country are not enough to fully cover the state's needs for electricity during the cold season”. What is more, France, the Netherlands, and Belgium could reduce the supply of electricity to Britain through underwater networks. Although the UK has enough gas at the moment, it may face problems if the winter turns out to be very cold. That is why coal power plants are held in reserve.
