UK's Ofgem to ensure independent review of heatwave operations
Overview of Ofgem's Response to Heatwave Allegations
July 14 (Reuters) - Britain's energy regulator Ofgem said on Tuesday it would ensure an independent probe into the handling of the energy system during extreme heat is transparent and impartial, following allegations of poor record-keeping and improper influence on decision-making.
The allegations relate to National Energy System Operator's (NESO) handling of grid operations and record-keeping during June 22 to 26, when hot weather across Great Britain and Europe prompted a Met Office red warning and put power systems under strain.
Key Details of the Allegations and Investigation
Here are some details:
Independent Investigation Initiated
• NESO has launched an independent investigation into allegations raised by Shadow Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho about its handling of grid operations during the heatwave.
Nature of the Allegations
• The allegations included claims that Corporate Affairs staff sought to influence operational decisions to avoid reputational damage to NESO and that senior managers instructed control room staff to use "live documents" without version histories, limiting audit trails and records available for Freedom of Information requests.
NESO's Response and Policies
• NESO said it has policies and procedures in place to prevent such conduct but is treating the allegations "extremely seriously".
Scope of the Probe
• The probe will include interviews with power system managers, control room personnel and Corporate Affairs staff, as well as a review of control room logs.
Technical Review and Reporting Timeline
• NESO is also conducting a separate technical review of the electricity system's performance during the June heatwave and plans to share its findings with Ofgem and the government.
Expected Timeline for Investigation
• Under the proposed timetable, fieldwork is expected to conclude on July 23, with its final report due on July 31.
(Reporting by Ankita Bora in Bengaluru; Editing by Joyjeet Das)