I perceive some risk of power cuts, probably not a great risk, but it is well to be prepared.


Staff shortage in power stations is a distinct possibility, if at just one or two locations this should be manageable, but any widespread staff shortage could result in rota power cuts. The risk is reduced by the load reducing at this time of year.

I would be more worried about the situation NEXT winter, if normality is not restored by then. Trying to meet the peak winter demand with several power stations unavailable could be a challenge.


The other risk is "normal" breakdowns in transmission or distribution infrastructure that cant be promptly rectified due to staff shortage or lack of consumables. Extreme weather is a risk under normal circumstances, but would be much worse if combined with staff or equipment shortages.


There remains in my view a small but real risk of terrorist attacks on vital infrastructure, both cyber attacks and direct physical attack. The consequences would be worse if staff shortage or want of materials was already a problem.


Any of these events could cause shortages in France, and indirectly affect the UK if electricity imports were not available.

I perceive some risk of power cuts, probably not a great risk, but it is well to be prepared.


Staff shortage in power stations is a distinct possibility, if at just one or two locations this should be manageable, but any widespread staff shortage could result in rota power cuts. The risk is reduced by the load reducing at this time of year.

I would be more worried about the situation NEXT winter, if normality is not restored by then. Trying to meet the peak winter demand with several power stations unavailable could be a challenge.


The other risk is "normal" breakdowns in transmission or distribution infrastructure that cant be promptly rectified due to staff shortage or lack of consumables. Extreme weather is a risk under normal circumstances, but would be much worse if combined with staff or equipment shortages.


There remains in my view a small but real risk of terrorist attacks on vital infrastructure, both cyber attacks and direct physical attack. The consequences would be worse if staff shortage or want of materials was already a problem.


Any of these events could cause shortages in France, and indirectly affect the UK if electricity imports were not available.