A series of small generators scattered across the Thames Gateway could be used to prevent power cuts like those seen in London last week.
Experts are examining a process of "distributed power generation" as the answer to electricity shortages in the South-east area earmarked for massive housing expansion (HT 23 May, page 7).

Tiny power stations the size of houses could be built throughout the area. They would be linked to the National Grid but could continue providing power independently if it failed, as in London on 28 August.

Stephen Joseph, deputy chief executive of the Thames Gateway London Partnership, said: "[The London blackout] will make people look more closely at this as a solution, rather than just relying on begging from the National Grid.

"There is a problem and it is being looked at. The power cut in London gives us an additional shove to go in the direction we were thinking of going anyway."

He added that power providers will need incentives to make it worthwhile to invest in regeneration areas where cash returns may be slow to materialise.

The London Development Agency is reviewing how to provide power to the 200,000 new homes planned for the gateway (HT 6 June, page 13).

It is expected to report in the next few weeks.

Source

Housing Today