As the snow came down and temperatures plummeted during Storm Darcy, the UK’s electricity and gas network operators can now reflect on a strong effort keeping energy flowing to homes, businesses, and communities across the country.
During the cold spell, temperatures fell nationwide compared with the preceding week. The gas pipes and electricity cables that stretch right across the country – from John O’Groats to Land’s End – rose to the challenge, keeping homes warm, lights on and Britain’s businesses running.
Unsurprisingly, national demand for gas increased by around a third. The week before Storm Darcy, an average winter period, saw a daily demand for gas at around 300 million cubic metres. This increased by a third as the cold weather struck.
Although this was similar to 2018’s Beast from the East which saw similar levels of demand, the bad weather in 2018 lasted a week or so longer. Despite this exceptional level of demand, the reliability of the local gas networks remained at 99.9%.
Meanwhile the electricity network faced its own challenges. The snow and cold weather meant that it might be possible for overhead power lines to break.
Local electricity network operators were well prepared. They had made decisions that ensured readiness and allowed them to respond to what was happening in their operating areas. This included putting additional staff on standby and ensuring that their fleets, which included specialist vehicles, were ready to be deployed.
David Smith, Chief Executive of Energy Networks Association which represents the UK and Ireland’s energy networks businesses said:
“Even though demand for gas soared by a third as people looked to heat their homes, the networks responded very well which is a result of the dedication of the frontline teams as well as strategic planning. I am very grateful to all those who have been out working in very challenging conditions to keep energy flowing for customers all across the UK.”
Notes to editor
Photo credit: Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks line workers in Ballater, Scotland (Feb 2021)
Gas demand during Storm Darcy:
- Monday 8 Feb: 393m cubic metres per day
- Tuesday 9 Feb: 402m cubic metres per day
- Wednesday 10 Feb: 414m cubic metres per day
- Thursday 11 Feb: 405m cubic metres per day
Source: National Grid / ENA
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Energy Networks Association (ENA) is the industry body representing the energy networks. Our members include every major electricity network operator in the UK. The electricity networks are at the heart of the energy transition. They directly employ more than 26,000 people in the UK, including 1,500 apprentices. They are spending and investing £33bn in our electricity grids over the coming years, to ensure safe, reliable and secure energy supplies for the millions of homes and businesses reliant on power every day.
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