Key facts
- A leaked report commissioned by the UK's National Energy System Operator (Neso) indicates challenges in energy forecasting due to the net zero push.
- The report, prepared by Cornwall Insight, highlights reduced visibility of the power system due to the increase in renewable energy sources.
- Whistleblowers have expressed concerns that Neso is operating without accurate data, risking blackouts.
- The report suggests that inaccurate energy forecasts are contributing to higher costs for consumers.
- Neso has issued warnings for additional power generation during recent heatwaves, citing extreme temperatures and increased demand.
The UK's national grid operator, Neso, is reportedly 'flying blind' in its energy forecasting capabilities due to the government's push towards net zero emissions, according to a leaked report. The report, compiled by energy consultancy Cornwall Insight, suggests that the increasing reliance on renewable energy sources like wind and solar has diminished grid operators' visibility of the power system, complicating the accurate mapping of energy supply and demand.
A whistleblower warned that Neso is operating without sufficient real-time data, increasing the risk of widespread blackouts and higher electricity bills for consumers. The report indicates that these forecasting inaccuracies are inflating costs and making it harder for Neso to prevent power outages.
These concerns come to the forefront as Neso has issued multiple warnings in recent months, calling on energy companies to generate additional power to meet demand during periods of extreme temperatures. The operator requested more power during a June heatwave that saw temperatures reach a record high, and again in July.
This situation follows calls from leading energy industry bodies for the new prime minister, Andy Burnham, to reduce green levies on business energy bills, arguing that failure to do so could jeopardize economic growth.