How existing flexible thermal assets support energy security during the renewables transition

Throughout the year, our flexible power stations from Aberdeenshire to Kent have been running homes and businesses; powering televisions and laptops; cooking dinners and charging cars. But as we continue to move to a more renewables‑led system, how will our vital flexible thermal plant continue to help power Britain?

Why flexible generation still matters

We operate some of the UK and Ireland’s most efficient gas‑fired power stations – among them Keadby 2 in North Lincolnshire, Europe’s most efficient.

These stations deliver dependable electricity while driving long‑term investment through skilled jobs, local supply chains and community support.

Powering the UK and protecting the grid at peak demand

With the right backing, flexible plants like Peterhead, Medway and Keadby can remain on the system for as long as needed – providing energy security, employment, training and expertise.

The vital role of flexible generation has changed over the years, moving from providing baseload power – running consistently over long periods of time – to running for shorter periods of time, when they are needed to meet demand. That might be a very cold and still day in winter, or a low‑wind period across the summer. And that’s because our power system is now increasingly anchored in renewable generation.

As their role on the system has changed, the way in which we manage these power stations has also changed. Gas‑fired stations will run less often, with greater need for flexibility. This stop‑and‑start pattern can increase wear and tear of equipment, meaning the need for closer monitoring, attention and maintenance.

Investing in reliable, high‑performing assets

So that’s exactly what we’re doing through our outage excellence programme. Our expert teams undertake extensive maintenance planning to proactively inspect, replace or repair equipment, or procure necessary parts, to ensure our stations continue to operate safely and reliably.

Flexibility remains key as renewables grow

Despite their changing role, these power stations will continue to provide important backup into the 2030s and beyond. But new, lower‑carbon flexible power stations will also be needed. A role for both is set out clearly in the UK Government’s Clean Power Plan, and in the National Electricity System Operator’s future energy scenarios.

Future‑proofing with hydrogen and carbon capture

As well as maintaining and optimising existing stations, we’re also developing the next generation of flexible power stations. With plans for decarbonisation‑ready stations, hydrogen and power CCS, we can create a new era of class‑leading, flexible and reliable generation – with a much lower carbon footprint.

Until these can be delivered, with the right supporting infrastructure – such as CO₂ transport and storage and hydrogen production, transport and storage – we will continue to operate our existing flexible thermal power stations safely and reliably to support an increasingly clean power system.