The Energy Secretary has commissioned the independent National Energy System Operator to investigate the power outage that affected Heathrow Airport
The Energy Secretary has today (Saturday 22 March) commissioned the independent National Energy System Operator to urgently investigate the power outage incident that impacted Heathrow Airport and the surrounding area.
Working with Ofgem, Ed Miliband is using Energy Act powers to formally launch the investigation. This follows the action taken yesterday to restore power to all affected customers.
NESO’s investigation will support efforts to build a clear picture of the circumstances surrounding this incident and the UK’s energy resilience more broadly so that it’s prevented from ever happening again.
The government’s Plan for Change is rebuilding Britain’s resilience, including boosting the country’s energy security with homegrown power. Separately, the resilience review led by the Cabinet Office is ongoing and is due to conclude in the Spring.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said:
Akshay Kaul, Director General for Infrastructure at Ofgem, said:
NESO chief executive Fintan Slye said:
NESO will work with other bodies, including Heathrow Airport, to ensure the investigation is comprehensive and thoroughly examines the causes of the incident.
Further details on the scope of the investigation and its Terms of Reference will be agreed by the Energy Secretary, Ofgem and NESO and published in the coming days.
NESO are expected to report to DESNZ and Ofgem with initial findings within six weeks.