System Alert Due To Generator Outage

SONI, Northern Ireland’s Transmission System Operator expects to issue a System Alert (Amber Alert) at 21:00 this evening due to a planned generator outage to facilitate essential maintenance. The alert is expected to remain in place until on the early hours of 18^th December 2024. 

During this period, the grid will be operating with fewer large, conventional generators on the system than normal. This means we will be managing the grid outside of normal operating standards.

However, we expect that there will be sufficient generation available to meet demand and, if the anticipated generation expected remains available, we do not expect any impact on users of electricity. 

When SONI issues a System Alert there is no immediate impact for users of electricity. Instead, a System Alert warns of a heightened risk for potential temporary electricity supply issues in the near future, so that our expert engineers and those across the electricity sector can take pre-planned actions to protect the integrity of the grid. It is a signal for all generators of electricity to make their power plants available for use and not to put their power plants at any risk of further breakdowns or operational challenges.

As the System Operator, SONI does not generate or sell electricity. We operate the grid with the electricity made available to it by the generators who have secured contracts to do so through the market.

We will communicate promptly should there be any significant changes to the status of the power system.

For more information on Grid Alerts, visit Grid Alerts Explained (soni.ltd.uk)

ENDS

For more information, please email pressoffice@soni.ltd.uk