UK Energy System Faces Pressure from Third Heatwave

UK Energy System Faces Pressure from Third Heatwave. The UK's energy system operator, National Energy System Operator (Neso), has issued a fresh warning over power supplies as the country enters its third heatwave of the year. Neso has asked for extra electricity from power generators to cope with the added demand from households using fans and air conditioners to cool their homes. This comes just weeks after Neso issued a similar plea for extra electricity during last month's heatwave, when the UK recorded a provisional high of 37.7°C. Neso stated that there is no risk to customer electricity supplies, but the notice raises the prospect of paying higher-than-average prices to gas power plants to meet electricity demand. Across the Channel, French state-owned utility company EDF warned that the latest heatwave is putting a strain on its nuclear reactors, which regularly export power to the UK and Germany.

■The energy system is under pressure from the heatwave.

■Energy security concerns have arisen.

■Climate change and heatwaves are impacting energy systems.

Markets are highly sensitive to this situation and energy prices may fluctuate. Measures to balance energy demand and supply are crucial.