Nigel Farage has directed harsh criticism toward the concept of net zero energy after witnessing a substantial power outage that left Spain and Portugal in disarray. The leader of Reform UK expressed his fear that Britain might face similar power disruptions if it continues its focus on renewable energy sources, which he described as “renewable lunacy.” In a video shared on social media, Farage noted that Spain, despite its extensive wind and solar energy capacities, experienced a complete blackout, suggesting that this could also happen in the UK if the current trend persists.
Adding to the conversation, Tory leader Kemi Badenoch proposed that the recent outages may stem from an overreliance on renewable energy. She indicated that the UK's net zero ambitions could potentially make the country susceptible to blackouts due to the challenges faced in battery storage capacities. Badenoch pointed out that the existing infrastructure may not be adequate to handle the fluctuating energy supply from renewables, resulting in issues when energy production outpaces storage capabilities.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper addressed these concerns while speaking to Sky News, emphasizing that the UK is taking proactive measures regarding energy resilience and security. She highlighted ongoing security reviews aimed at strengthening the country’s energy systems and managing different types of potential threats. Cooper reassured that the UK government supports Spain and Portugal in addressing the challenges they face in their energy management.
10 Comments
Africa
Spain and Portugal are facing energy issues that are not unique to renewables, and may be the result of lack of maintenance of old infrastructure.
Comandante
These blackouts in Spain are a wake-up call. The risks of relying solely on renewables are real.
Bella Ciao
Farage highlights the risks we are facing and the cost associated with it.
Muchacha
The UK is implementing net zero with intelligent approaches such as wind and solar farms, and it's essential to move on from outdated models
Coccinella
The government's lack of investment in infrastructure is to blame, not renewables.
Rolihlahla
It’s a valid concern - we must ensure we can produce reliable electricity. Net Zero can't come at the cost of energy security.
Katchuka
Farage is speaking common sense. We can't risk our power grid on unreliable energy sources.
Eugene Alta
It's funny how Farage is so worried about blackouts but doesn't care about climate change, which is a far bigger threat.
BuggaBoom
Finally, someone is highlighting the downsides of the rush to renewables.
Loubianka
Criticising Spain's blackout while ignoring the benefits of renewable energy is not constructive.