European Countries Planning for Blackouts This Winter October 14, 2022 Europe is showing the United States how important it is to be energy independent. The National Grid’s Electricity System Operator (ESO) recently warned that planned three-hour blacks could be imposed this winter if the gas supply falls short. EU countries have recently agreed to a 10% cut in gross electricity consumption and a mandatory reduction of 5% during peak hours. Sky News reports on Europe’s looming energy crisis and the EU’s response. “The European Council said: “Member states will identify 10% of their peak hours between 1 December 2022 and 31 March 2023 during which they will reduce the demand. Member states will be free to choose the appropriate measures to reduce consumption for both targets in this period.” U.K. Prime Minster Liz Truss recently announced the return of fracking to the United Kingdom to help combat the energy crisis. The U.K. is making the right moves in tapping into its own resources. But even then, it could be too late to avoid blackouts or a gas supply emergency. “A gas supply emergency can be declared when suppliers are unable to safely get gas to homes and businesses. It could mean that some customers, starting with the largest industrial consumers, will be asked to stop using gas for a temporary period. The aim would be to keep gas and gas-generated electricity supplies stable for households for as long as possible.” The United States should look to our allies in Europe as a warning. Winter is coming, and if we continue down the path the eco-left is paving, we are all in for a dark and cold winter. Back to Blog Posts