LA Collette Power Station could be fired up and provide electricity to the Island in a move to reduce potential shortages in France driven by the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Jersey Electricity has agreed to reduce the amount of energy drawn from the undersea power cables connected to France’s network amid major turmoil in the European energy market.
Around 95% of the Island’s electricity is ordinarily imported from France.
JE chief executive Chris Ambler said: ‘Europe is very much in an energy crisis catalysed by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In the spirit of co-operation and unity, we stand ready to run La Collette Power Station to generate energy to support our strategic partners should this become necessary. Jersey Electricity normally imports around 95% of its annual requirement from France under long term contract but as part of the Channel Islands Energy Grid’s trading arrangements with EDF, Jersey is able to reduce its importation and generate locally should there be shortages of power over the winter months.
‘Jersey Electricity anticipates the Power Station may be in use during certain hours over a three-month period from December to February, depending on the severity of the winter and supplies in France.’
He added that, as this would only be a temporary measure when required, the agreement would have no impact on the Island’s carbon neutral plans.
‘Whilst we are playing our part in supporting France by reducing the Island’s demand on the French network, JE will be compensated for its cost of generation and any surplus returns will help keep costs of La Collette as low as possible,’ Mr Ambler added.
‘We would like to reassure Islanders that Jersey’s low carbon energy supply through EDF remains secure and we do not anticipate a shortfall in energy supply over the coming winter. That said we always encourage our customers to conserve energy where possible such as by using tools like the My JE app.’
