Calm Skies Plunge UK Wind Power to Record Low

[Social Media]

 

The UK experienced a dramatic decline in wind power production, with output falling to less than 1% of the country’s electricity supply due to some of the stillest weather in years. This rare atmospheric condition, known as a “dunkelflaute,” has brought winter wind farm production to what is believed to be its lowest level since 2015, a time when fewer turbines dotted the landscape.  

 

The lack of wind has forced the UK to lean heavily on electricity imports from neighboring countries such as France, Norway, Belgium, and Denmark. These undersea cable connections collectively supplied over 10% of the UK’s electricity on Wednesday, helping to stabilize the grid during the calm spell.  

 

Adding to the controversy surrounding wind power, former U.S. President Donald Trump reignited his criticism of wind farms earlier this week. He described turbines as “inefficient, ugly, and a threat to wildlife” while halting offshore wind developments in U.S. waters.

 

With wind power faltering, Britain relied on its ageing fleet of gas-fired power stations, which provided over 60% of the nation’s electricity. The increased demand meant the National Energy System Operator (Neso) had to activate additional and costly backup capacity. At midday on Wednesday, the Connahs Quay 2 power station was offered a staggering £745 per megawatt hour to begin generating, a stark contrast to the typical market rate of around £100. These higher costs are expected to trickle down to consumer energy bills.  

 

While similar calm spells have occurred in the past—such as in May 2020—these typically happen during warmer months when energy demand is significantly lower. Winter days, however, bring higher electricity usage, with daytime demand averaging around 35 gigawatts (GW) and peaking at up to 50GW on very cold evenings.  

 

On Wednesday morning, the UK’s 12,000 wind turbines, which typically generate around 10GW and can reach up to 23GW during strong winds, were producing a mere 200 megawatts (MW). This output is equivalent to the contribution of just 30 large turbines on a windy day. With such low production, wind farms were effectively non-contributors to the power grid, and the strain on energy supply was heightened as evening demand approached.  

 

The Met Office had predicted the calm conditions, giving Neso time to prepare. It warned that winds across the UK, the North Sea, and nearby regions would remain extremely light until Thursday evening. However, relief was expected with the arrival of Storm Eowyn on Friday, bringing winds of up to 100mph.  

 

When asked about the preparations made during this tight period, Neso declined to comment on its operational strategies. Despite planning efforts, the last few days have been some of the most challenging for the UK’s power grid in recent years.  

 

The closure of the Ratcliffe-on-Soar power station in Nottinghamshire last September further strained the grid. As the UK’s last coal-fired power station, it could have provided an additional 2GW of capacity, easing the pressure during this calm spell. However, its shutdown was part of the UK’s efforts to cut greenhouse gas emissions.  

 

Critics of wind energy have used the calm spell to amplify their concerns. Richard Tice, energy spokesman for Reform UK, supported Trump’s comments, stating, “Trump is right about wind turbines – they are ugly, expensive, and harm wildlife, including causing huge damage to marine life. People who invest by relying on subsidies for their long-term viability should not be surprised that eventually people wake up and say this is wrong. I have no sympathy. Short-term subsidies may be justifiable but not long-term ones for investors.”  

 

As the UK navigates the challenges of transitioning to greener energy sources, this episode highlights the ongoing difficulties in balancing sustainability, reliability, and affordability in the nation’s power system.

 

Based on a report by Daily Telegraph 2025-01-23

 

 

[Cryingdick]

The wind machines are causing climate change. 

[thaibeachlovers]

2 hours ago, Social Media said:

With wind power faltering, Britain relied on its ageing fleet of gas-fired power stations, which provided over 60% of the nation’s electricity

 

It's just not going the luvvies way, is it? Trump wins and green energy cultists are looking embarrassed, as well they should.

 

2 hours ago, Social Media said:

At midday on Wednesday, the Connahs Quay 2 power station was offered a staggering £745 per megawatt hour to begin generating, a stark contrast to the typical market rate of around £100. These higher costs are expected to trickle down to consumer energy bills.  

It gets better, LOL.

 

Perhaps they should connect Starmer to a thermal generator- he spouts enough hot air to power Britain by himself.

 

 

[Homburg]

Omigosh! The wind doesn't blow every day! Who'd have thought?

[Cryingdick]

5 minutes ago, Homburg said:

Omigosh! The wind doesn't blow every day! Who'd have thought?

 

If it blows to fast it is equally bad. The problem is there is no efficient way to store the energy.