The Impact of Cold Weather on Energy Prices
- Author Shea Karssing
- Published October 4, 2018
- Word count 516
With winter on the way, what is the impact of cold weather on energy prices? Are we in for another cold winter, and another ensuing spike in energy prices?
Britons will have not-so-fond memories of this year’s ‘Beast from the East’ – freezing temperatures, gridlocked traffic, empty restaurants and shops and idle construction equipment.
Wholesale gas prices spiked to the highest level in two decades (300p) due to a deficit in supply, as the UK competed with Europe for gas supplies.
So, are we in for another cold and expensive winter?
2018 winter weather predictions UK
After a warmer-than-usual summer for much of the UK, mild air conditions are expected to continue into autumn.
According to AccuWeather Meteorologist Tyler Roys, the average temperature for September and October will be about 1-2 C higher than normal. But by November, more traditional stormy patterns are expected to settle in.
More extreme weather on the way?
Some experts predict that El Nino will bring further months of extreme heat and cold in the UK, and could trigger another very cold winter this year.
The impact of cold weather on energy prices
The weather drives up the amount of energy we need, as well as how much we pay for it. In fact, when UK electricity demand reaches its peak, it’s estimated that demand rises by 820 Mega Watts (MW) for every degree the temperature drops below 15 C.
Increased energy demand in winter
Energy demand in the UK is higher in winter than it is in summer. From October to March, the colder, darker weather causes the population to stay indoors more, turn on lights for longer periods of time and switch on central heating.
Setting back the clock
The end of October signifies the end of the British Summer Time, with clocks put back one hour. Because the daylight hours shorten, this traditionally provides an increase in peak demand of 6-7%.
Read our infographic on The Truth About Daylight Savings Energy Efficiency.
Reduced renewable generation
In the darker winter months, solar generation is minimal; however, wind levels are generally stronger, causing fluctuations in the UK’s available renewable energy supply. This intermittent generation means that the country isn’t able to rely on renewables during times of demand stress.
Electricity power plants work better
Power plants work better in winter’s cold weather:
Cooling towers work more efficiently
Power cables are more conductive
Less energy is needed to help keep equipment from overheating.
These factors mean small cost savings in electricity generation. ,
… but gas demand increases
During winter, the UK uses more gas, largely due to the rise in heating. This increased demand raises the gas price and has a knock-on effect on electricity costs.
Storms and extreme weather
Rain, snow, storms and other extreme weather conditions can also impact energy generation and supply during winter. These conditions can cause damage to energy infrastructure such s distribution centres and power lines, leading to high repair costs and could lead to higher winter energy pricing as a result.
Generally speaking, gas and prices are expected to rise during the winter months.
How to reduce the impact of cold weather on energy prices
Before the winter hits, it’s advisable to shop the market, compare quotes and move onto cheaper energy tariffs. Choosing a fixed tariff will also mean that your energy prices won’t fluctuate throughout the contract period.
Smarter Business’ energy experts will help your business secure the best energy tariff to help you reduce your winter energy bills. https://smarterbusiness.co.uk/
Article source: https://articlebiz.comRate article
Article comments
There are no posted comments.
Related articles
- “Shadowland: The Tragic Ordeal of Frances Farmer and the Machinery That Broke Her.”
- “Glenn Ford: Hollywood’s Reluctant Heartthrob Who Played by His Own Rules.”
- “From Navy Tough Guy to Hollywood Everyman: The Life and Legacy of Ernest Borgnine.”
- Nancy Meyers-Inspired Kitchen: California Casual with Vintage Carved Door Charm
- Yellowstone-Inspired Ranch Farmhouse Style: Rugged Elegance with Rustic Antique Doors
- Used Master Prime Inspection: 5 Critical Checks to Avoid Refurbished Scams
- Staying Charged: A Guide to Electrolyte Balance for Health and Exercise
- Creating a Profitable Business with PLR Planners and Printables
- How to Spend 48 Hours in Cape Town: A Quick Itinerary
- “Wounds That Time Couldn’t Heal: Watching The Best Years of Our Lives Through the Lens of Memory and Mourning.”
- Understanding an ACL Tear
- Top 5 Funniest Gag Gifts for Your Best Friend
- Why Second Hand Pianos for Sale Are a Smart Investment
- Finding the Right Piano Shop Near Me: A Guide to Second Hand Pianos
- “Mira Sorvino: From Oscar Glory to Hollywood Silence.”
- Ireland Sino Institute Launches 2025 China Internship Program
- “Beyond the Spotlight: The Rise and Fall of Dorothy Dandridge.”
- “Through the Mist of Venice: Revisiting Don’t Look Now and Its Haunting Grip on Grief.”
- The Art of Coaching: Cultivating Growth and Inspiration
- Creating a Holistic Backyard Retreat: Old World Elegance Meets Nature
- Understanding T1 and T2 Transit Documents in EU: Your Complete Guide
- Cryptonews.money: Your Ultimate Guide to Understanding Cryptocurrency
- 15 Basketball Dribbling Games and Passing Drills for Better Ball Handling
- Transdermal Progesterone Cream: Benefits for Hot Flashes and Menopause Symptoms
- Tepezcohuite: The Ancient Skin Health Secret You Need to Know
- Quiet Cars and Busy Calendars: The Overlooked Role of Chauffeurs in Post-July Corporate Travel
- 1031 Exchange
- Breaking Karmic Cycles, Creating a Shiva Altar with Deity Carvings and Sculptures from Mogul Interior
- The Art of Whimsical Carved Wall Art & Eclectic Décor
- “Hellfire and Heresy: Ken Russell’s The Devils and the Fury of Sacred Cinema.”