Ditch ‘net zero’ and target gas and nuclear in blackout threat

BRITAIN needs to “wake up” and secure new sources of nuclear and gas-based energy by the fastest route possible, the Government has been told.

- David Williamson

It comes after the National Grid said the UK could be hit by blackouts this winter. It warned that in a worst-case scenario potential gas shortages could result in homes losing power for up to three hours at a time.

The threat of blackouts has been dubbed a “humiliating” and “developing world” situation for Britain by experts.

Craig Mackinlay, chairman of the Net Zero Scrutiny Group of MPs, described the situation as “beyond serious”.

The South Thanet Tory MP said: “Gas is the fuel which balances the grid because of its ability to instantly spark up to meet demand.

“High prices, energy insecurity and the threat of winter blackouts because the world is scrabbling for limited international gas highlights the failure of UK energy policy over 25 years.