The end of energy on demand

Richard North is on form, skewering what he calls the green energy paradigm.

Shortages of essential commodities are engineered, forcing up prices artificially, which are then rationed out on price, driving down consumption to bring supply and demand back in balance.

Yes, we see that in Britain. The houses in the Danish trial are to have smart meters:

But the greater price paid here is loss of freedom and control – and privacy. There is no guarantee of continuity of supply and the routine control of electricity use is handed over to the supplier, which is able to record what appliances are used, and when.

And, of course, when the wind does not blow, not only can individual houses be cut off, the utility suppliers can reach into those houses and switch off whole classes of appliances.

That way, explains Richard - nailing it - our green masters avoid the embarrassment of the lights going out.

Such energy slaving may be deemed to suffice for a small collection of plebs' huts not subject to heath and safety policy on room temperatures. But what of hospitals, schools, businesses?

And who will be the one to apologise to Andrew Mitchell for a ruined lunch at the Cinnamon Club?