NESO Publishes Summer Outlook 2026

National Energy System Operator (NESO) has published its Summer Outlook 2026, setting out its assessment of electricity supply, demand and system operation across Great Britain for the period April to October 2026.

The report is intended to support energy sector planning, outlining expected system conditions, operational requirements and market trends for the summer months.

NESO’s analysis indicates there will be sufficient electricity supply to meet demand and reserve requirements throughout the period, with an operational surplus expected under a range of scenarios. Great Britain is also expected to have the capability to export electricity to neighbouring countries if required.

Peak demand is forecast to be broadly in line with recent summers, with growth in embedded generation such as solar and wind offsetting increases in underlying demand.

The report highlights the increasing complexity of operating the system at low demand, driven by higher levels of weather-dependent renewable generation. NESO notes this may require more frequent use of operational tools to balance supply and demand.

Market signals suggest Great Britain is likely to be a net importer of electricity overall during the summer, particularly from Continental Europe.

The report also outlines ongoing developments to system operations and resilience, including updates to the Demand Flexibility Service and continued collaboration with industry partners.

Read the full report and more here.