Ofgem Warns UK Faces 'Significant Risk' Of Gas Shortages This Winter

3rd October 2022

The UK's energy regulator Ofgem has warned the country faces a "significant risk" of gas shortages ahead of the winter months.

In a letter obtained by The Times, Ofgem warned there was a chance of "gas supply emergency" due to Russia's war on Ukraine.

It comes after reports earlier this year suggesting the UK government were planning for several days over the winter where there could be organised blackouts for industry and even households.

The admission from Ofgem will likely increase fears of blackouts because the UK relies on gas plants for the biggest share of its electricity supplies.

According to The Times, Ofgem was replying to a request from SSE which own several gas power stations.

Current industry rules mean power station could face charges if their gas is cut off causing them to fail in delivering promised energy supplies.

Ofgem said the situation risks "potential insolvency of gas-fired generators" and called for urgent action to prevent a "significant impact on the safety and security of the electricity and/or gas systems".

France has nationalised EDF in the face of similar issues. The government is trying to shore up domestic energy supplies amid concerns over the finances of the energy company, which is also building the Hinkley Point C nuclear power station in Somerset.
Ministers want to take action to keep energy bills from soaring even higher amid a gas supply crunch in Europe.