UK Energy Regulator Investigates Overstated Wind Farm Forecasts

The UK energy regulator, Ofgem, is investigating the behavior of wind farms that have overstated their energy output. Bloomberg's report found that these overestimations have cost bill payers an estimated £51 million ($65 million) since 2018. The UK's energy minister, Andrew Bowie, condemned the behavior, and Ofgem has opened an investigation into the conduct of the wind farms. The overestimations have led to millions of British pounds being added to consumer energy bills each year, and the UK's outdated grid often can't handle all the electricity that wind farms produce, resulting in payments to switch off turbines. Some wind farms were found to have overstated their output by 10% or more, and Ofgem will continue to work to protect market integrity and consumers.