LONDON (UK) – Britain’s daily electricity demand is approximately 10% lower than the period before the country went into lockdown a week ago owing to the coronavirus outbreak, according to data from grid operator National Grid.
This fall can largely be attributed to big industrial consumers now consuming less power.
A week ago, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson ordered Britons to remain home to halt the coronavirus spread, with curbs on everyday life.
Morning peak demand fell by approximately 18% as compared to before the lockdown and the normal morning peak is now later than usual. This can be attributed to people waking up later and more spread out, as fewer people are travelling to work and school.
Even though the power needed overall is lesser, the operator still has to manage lower electricity demand, along with peaks as well as keep the frequency and voltage of the system at safe levels.
National Grid states that a number of tools can be used to manage the frequency, like working with flexible generators to reduce output or draw on storage providers to increase demand.
(Photos syndicated via Reuters)
This story has been edited by BH staff and is published from a syndicated field.