Cold weather prompts record peak power demand

As a result of the cold weather experienced recently, the Gibraltar Electricity Authority has said witnessed record peak power demands.
On Wednesday January 18, power demands reached 41.9 MW, while on Thursday the peak power demand reached 42.3 MW.
“Unlike the situation years ago, when such a demand would have crippled the system and led to repeated power cuts due lack of generating capacity, there is now ample capacity and therefore no risk of power cuts as a result,” the Electricity Authority said in a statement.
Present installed generating capacity is 76 MW, much higher than the maximum demand.
“This reflects the Government’s commitment to power security in Gibraltar, which will be further guaranteed by the new power station, expected to be commissioned by the end of the year.”
The GEA put the peaks down to a combination of the cold weather together with the fact that many new housing units are occupied following the allocation last year of Beach View Terraces and Mons Calpe Mews.
“While no power outages due to poor capacity are expected, the Government encourages consumers to reduce consumption by using energy efficient devices, such as more energy efficient heaters and LED lights, switching off all unnecessary lights and electrical equipment, and considering the use of renewable energy such as solar panels.”
According to the Authority, this not only saves considerable amounts of money, but also reduces emissions from power generation and contributes to a healthier Gibraltar and a healthier planet.
Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, Dr John Cortes commented: “We are very proud that we have totally turned around the problem of power outages due to lack of provision, that plagued Gibraltar for years.”
“We must now act responsibly and voluntarily reduce consumption, in order to have a cleaner environment for all and to save money.”