National Grid's failures could push UK energy bills higher
Britain’s energy grid operator is in serious trouble, and it could end up costing households more on their bills. The National Energy System Operator (Neso) has repeatedly failed to file crucial safety reports to regulator Ofgem, and it’s still relying on fax machines instead of modern technology.
Here’s what’s happening. After a major power cut in 2019 that left a million people without electricity, Neso was supposed to submit yearly reports to Ofgem about risky situations on the grid and what they’d cost to fix. But Neso has missed deadlines so badly that Ofgem has actually exempted them from filing this year’s report altogether. The regulator said there simply wouldn’t be enough time for Neso to prepare next year’s version if they finished this year’s filing first.
It gets worse. During last month’s heatwave, five safety limits on the electricity grid were breached and system security was compromised, according to internal reports. Neso tried to ask Ofgem permission to weaken grid safety standards, and despite initial rejection, Ofgem eventually allowed lower stability levels anyway.
And the fax machines? Yes, really. Neso still uses outdated fax technology and won’t phase them out until January 2027. Meanwhile, they’re also struggling to deliver a 10-year electricity supply plan—they’ve already missed two deadlines, and now it won’t appear until the end of 2028.
Why should you care? A poorly run grid puts your energy supply at risk and delays in modernisation mean higher costs. Energy consultant Andrew Larkins says Neso is clearly struggling to keep up with the government’s clean power targets.
If you’re worried about energy bill rises, check if you qualify for energy bill support through your council or charitable schemes. Keep your bills and meter readings organised, and consider switching suppliers if your fixed tariff ends—you could save hundreds of pounds annually.
Ofgem is the official regulator. If you have concerns about your energy supply or bills, report them to Ofgem’s consumer complaints service or contact Citizens Advice’s consumer team for free help.