National Grid PLC (LSE:NG.), the electricity and gas network operator, doubled its UK emergency planning exercises this winter as concerns mount over energy shortages.
Potential scenarios – including the rationing of electricity – will be wargamed over four days, instead of the usual two, as part of its season 'Exercise Degree' planning exercises, Sky News reported.
“Exercise Degree will focus on Network Emergency Coordinator (NEC) communications with all industry participants through all stages of an emergency, both in the lead-up and during an NGSE, and assure that industry participants are aware of their obligations to comply with NEC instructions,” according to a briefing note from National Grid.
“The aim of this exercise is to demonstrate that the gas industry is prepared and able to meet its obligations in the event of a network gas supply emergency.”
The exercises will take place on 13 and 14 September and 4 and 5 October.
According to Sky News, National Grid said the arrangements for this year’s exercise were made in January, before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine put a squeeze on energy.
Doubling the exercise days raised concerns over a lack of energy this winter, as average household bills continue to rise.
However, Number 10 insists there is no need to panic, with Australian gas tanker Attalos being used to ease concerns and supplement existing supplies.
It is set to arrive at the Isle of Grain terminal in Kent later today, according to Sky News, and is thought to be the first cargo of liquefied gas arriving into Europe from Australia in six years.
British Gas owner Centrica earlier this month signed a £7bn purchase agreement to purchase 1mln tonnes of LNG for the next 15 years on a free-on-board basis.