Ageing UK Power Stations Blamed for Reduction in Output

Two of the UK's oldest power stations have experienced a sharp decline in output, results out today show.

Plant owner British Energy, which generates around a fifth of the UK's electricity, has recorded a 22% fall in operating profits in the three months leading up to July.

Realised prices across the group were 14% higher than a year ago at £40.8 per megawatt hour according to Q1 results.

The company insists its overall performance is 'encouraging' even though output has been 'significantly impacted by boiler issues' at its Hinkley Point B and Hunterston B operations which both opened in 1976.

British Energy say high operating temperatures have led to wear and tear.

Reported by staff writer