coronavirus

Networks will soon need to adjust summer plans in response to coronavirus

Union in coronavirus talks with utility bosses

Coronavirus: Regulator expects ‘proportionate’ debt response from suppliers

As the government issues stark advice on limiting movement and multiple industries warn they will struggle to survive, utilities have been reminded of their responsibilities to the most vulnerable in society. Ofgem has urged suppliers to be flexible over debt recovery and late payments, while Citizens Advice has said the sector needs to be prepared for a sharp increase in those struggling to pay their bills.

Weekend press round-up: Utilities brace for coronavirus impact

As some workers are kept home by the coronavirus pandemic, EDF is considering offering those affected a reprieve from payments, while the energy industry grapples with the effects on electricity demand. Meanwhile, planning applications for renewable energy projects hit a new high – all in the latest round-up of the weekend’s papers.

Electricity demand set to reduce if UK workforce self-isolates

National Grid ESO is predicting a reduction in electricity demand in the case of the coronavirus spread prompting a lockdown across the country. Its analysis was included in an update from the Energy Networks Association, in which it sought to reassure the public that contingency plans are in place to ensure services are unaffected by the virus.

Together Energy bans face to face sales due to coronavirus

Scottish challenger energy brand Together Energy has suspended its door to door sales teams with immediate effect and is encouraging other retailers to do the same. The supplier says it hopes the suspension will be short-term.

DNOs plead for clarity on pandemic position

A senior figure at one of the country’s distribution network operators (DNO) has called for a clear message on how its workers will be treated if the coronavirus spread becomes a pandemic in the UK. They said Ofgem needed to confirm which licence conditions would be relaxed in such a situation and that a discussion was also necessary about social distancing rules for lifeline service providers.

United Utilities enacts pandemic response plan

Coronavirus fears to hit smart meter installations

Coronavirus presents challenge to resilience

Five ways coronavirus could change the utilities sector

With obvious consequences of the coronavirus outbreak being seen across the world this week, what are the key issues for UK utilities? Utility Week examines the impact on workforce, customers and the retail market, among others.

Poll: How will coronavirus affect utilities?

Utilities and the coronavirus

As the coronavirus spreads and government advice cranks up, Utility Week magazine editor Suzanne Heneghan considers the impact on UK utilities and their obligations for keeping civil society operating