Mutual Energy: Fault on key electricity link ahead of winter peak

It added that if the interconnector does not return to full capacity this winter, the risk to the system increases, but remains within acceptable safety thresholds set by the Department for the Economy.

SONI Director of Operations, Emma Morris, said this year’s assessment shows that, under normal operating conditions, “we expect there will be sufficient generation available to meet electricity demand throughout the winter”, provided the “anticipated portfolio of generation remains available”.

The outlook emphasised there is no risk of a system-wide blackout solely due to insufficient generation under any circumstances this winter.

“Other conditions would have to be present, such as multiple significant failures, to cause a system-wide blackout,” it added.