Bolton: Thoughts on energy blackout as crisis worsens

Last week Chris Green MP backed Liz Truss, confirmed as Prime Minister yesterday, Monday, after she claimed there would be no new taxes or energy rationing if she took up the top job in Parliament.

She also dropped hints about further cost-of-living support.

He has however said that he hopes that support will also be outlined for those in need.

Mr Green said: “Britain isn’t in as vulnerable position as many European countries who are more dependent on Russian gases.

“The government has already guaranteed energy supplies from Norway, so that should give us confidence that we should get through the winter without any rations.

“During the leadership debate Liz Truss committed to no rations, and I think she would only say that if she was confident that we have the supplies.

Image reflecting the impact for many across the country. Credit: PA

“I am however, deeply concerned as businesses are still going to go through a very difficult time with energy costs.

“I trust that Liz is going to announce the support she’s going to give to people who desperately need it.”

Ms Truss has previously reiterated her two priorities are to cut taxes and to secure the UK’s energy supply as people across the country battle soaring costs.

Bolton South East MP Yasmin Qureshi says that it is down to the government’s "failure to invest in critical infrastructure", which has resulted in energy security issues.

She also explained that it will be everyday people in Britain who will be the ‘hardest hit’.

Last week, Ms Qureshi said: “The Conservative leadership debate took a turn for the worst as the focus turned from removing speeds limits to debating energy blackouts and the prospect of energy rationing.

“As we look ahead to winter, with a cost of living and energy crisis looming, blame must fall at the door of the Conservative party, who have overseen managed decline of Britain over the last 12 years.

Food banks are already said to be working ‘flat out’. Credit: PA)

“Their programme of austerity has cut our public services to a threadbare level and their failure to invest in critical infrastructure means our energy security is now in a perilous position.

“While oil and gas companies make record profits, it is everyday Brits who are set to be hardest hit.

“We (Labour) have committed £28bn a year to a climate investment pledge, designed to make hundreds of thousands of jobs and create sustainable, renewable energy sources.

“We would also tax the excess profits of oil and gas companies to fund support for all households.”

Outgoing Prime Minister Boris Johnson expects “substantial sums” to help with the cost of living to be provided by his party.

Mr Johnson reiterated the support the government has already provided but insisted a “further package” will be delivered ahead of winter by the new administration.

Love Energy Savings say that while they don’t know what the future holds, they are not aware of any possible fuel shortages or blackouts from their suppliers.

However, they have said that if there are shortages, this is likely to increase the price on gas imports, and hike up the price for consumers.

Bolton-based Love Energy Savings took over Energy Helpline earlier this year

A spokesperson from Love Energy Savings said: “We know that many people - businesses especially, are understandably extremely concerned about the talk around possible blackouts caused by fuel shortages this winter.

“We don’t have a crystal ball, but we can say that there has been no mention of possible fuel shortages or impending blackouts from our suppliers.

“If North Sea shortages do occur however, it’s likely that more expensive gas imports will be required from further afield like the US to ensure the demand is met.

“This could then cause an additional hike in energy costs for those in the UK.

“We’re past the point of mincing words at this point.

“Real government intervention to provide help for businesses and those worst hit by the price increases is essential.

“The only other thing we would suggest, is that whether likely or not, individuals but particularly businesses should have a blackout preparation plan in place.

“This isn’t a case of panicking or succumbing to mass hysteria - it’s a case of risk management and making sure staff or family members are safe and you minimise disturbance to production or output.
“Looped power source systems with non-electrical generators as a back-up source would be advisable to think about for businesses.

“Risk management plans including emergency lighting and blackout drills are also advisable.” 

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