Power grid operator scrambles to avert blackout risk

The UK's power grid operator has urged electricity providers to bolster output this evening to avert the threat of blackouts amid plunging temperatures.

The National Energy System Operator (NESO) issued an alert "to encourage market actions to increase system margins".

It is worried about a lack of spare capacity in the grid from 4pm until 7pm due to "system constraints".

The body, which is in public control after formally being part of National Grid, sought 900 megawatts of power as part of the so-called system margin notice.

Such notices are a call for a greater safety cushion between power demand and available supply.

It does not signal that blackouts are imminent or that there is not enough generation to meet current demand, the NESO stated.

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