Demand is threatening ESB supply

The announcement yesterday by the ESB National Grid that the reliability of national power generating plants is at its lowest for a decade, might conjure up images of the black-outs in America and London, but hopefully the situation will not reach that stage.

However, that body is an independent one responsible for managing the country's electricity system, and its Generation Adequacy Report gives cause for concern.

It points to the fact that existing power plants are operating at just 78% of their potential, which is resulting in a shortfall in supply at a time when demand is growing at four times the EU average.

The problem is compounded by the increased demand not allowing the usual time allotted for essential maintenance.

Consequently, the National Grid advised if this continues there will be significant shortage over the next three years.

Despite the ESB bringing two mobile generators online this year and approving two new power plants to be operational in three years time that situation could still arise.