Borders MP, John Lamont, has welcomed the UK Government’s publication of the Storm Arwen Review Final Report. The report was produced by the UK Government in collaboration with the industry and Ofgem.
Storm Arwen ravaged the Scottish Borders in November 2021, causing widespread power disruption locally and nationally.
Previously, Mr Lamont praised the work of the Scottish Borders Council and local communities in supporting Borderers affected by Storm Arwen. Mr Lamont also highlighted the need for the public and private sectors to consider actions necessary to boost resilience to adverse weather events in the future.
The report highlights plans to review and improve transmission network infrastructure, particularly spur lines in rural areas, such as the Scottish Borders, by 30 September 2022.
The report also outlines plans for the Electricity Task Group to reflect on international resilience infrastructure to evolve current practices, a key consideration in this process being the transition to Net Zero.
John Lamont MP said:
“I welcome the Storm Arwen Review Final Report by the UK Government. Countless constituents affected by Storm Arwen contacted me for support last November, many without power and their properties considerably damaged.
“Given the level of disruption caused by Storm Arwen, and with climate change making similarly extreme weather possible in the future, I was keen to see lessons learned from this devastating event.
“The steps outlined enhance system resilience, consumer protection, and additional support in future energy emergencies. I am optimistic that these steps will deliver improved repairs, customer service, and communications for local communities in the future.”
