98. Mr. H. D. Hughesasked the Minister of Fuel and Power to what extent the shedding of electricity load is due to plant deficiency; and what steps are being taken to remedy this situation.
§ Mr. ShinwellThe present shedding of electricity load is due to shortage of generating plant which is insufficient to meet peak loads on the public supply system. It does not arise from shortage of coal. The shortage of plant is due to the fact that very few power stations could be built during the war, while consumption of electricity has increased by 55 per cent. above 1938. A large programme of new power stations was approved as soon as the war ended, but these stations take several years to complete. All possible steps to expedite the construction of these stations are being taken.
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§ Colonel J. R. H. Hutchisonasked the Minister of Fuel and Power on how many days since 1st November, 1946, have compulsory cuts of electric power been inflicted on industry; and in what areas.
§ Mr. ShinwellSince 1st November, 1946, the Central Electricity Board has found it necessary on 18 days to issue instructions to electricity undertakings to shed 5 per cent. or 10 per cent. of their load for periods averaging about half an hour. All seven areas of the board into which Great Britain is divided have been affected but the districts most affected are the Midlands and South-East England. Load shedding does not necessarily involve cuts in electricity supplies. In many cases the strain on the load is lightened by a reduction in voltage; in other cases large industrial consumers on receiving an intimation, transfer part of their load to off-peak hours.