London, 12 September: As Britain’s electricity system becomes increasingly reliant on interconnection with European nations, a new report published by the Global Warming Policy Foundation warns about the growing risks to the UK’s energy security and security of supply.
Interconnectors are seen as key to managing periods of low wind output in an electricity system increasingly dependent on intermittent renewables. But what if the markets at the other end of those interconnectors are also experiencing Dunkelflaute conditions of low wind?
As most of these countries have similar weather to the UK, and share similar wind-led Net Zero targets, the risk to Britain’s security of supply is growing significantly.
Kathryn Porter, the report’s author, warns:
“The rules governing the behaviour of interconnectors do not guarantee they will import to Britain during times of electricity shortages – they could even export instead. Some countries are expressing doubts about their commitment to trading electricity, and have passed laws allowing them to suspend exports under critical conditions. They are also considering imposing export taxes in order to prevent domestic prices rising too much, which may reduce the availability of exports.
All of this suggests that while interconnectors may benefit Britain under normal market conditions, they may not deliver at times they are needed the most, and that relying on them could be a risky strategy.”
Kathryn Porter: Interconnectors and their impact on the GB electricity market (pdf)
