The UK gas system is forecast to close 5mcm short, according to npower’s daily market report.

Gemma Bruce from npower’s Optimisation Desk said: “Demand continues to be above seasonal normal levels as temperatures remain a touch below average for the time of year and gas-fired generation continues to dominate the power stack.”

The Langeled pipeline is currently at 36mcm.

Maintenance works at Troll gas field has cut supply from Norway by 15mcm/day.

Russia has offered Ukraine a discount in gas prices for the fourth quarter of the year.

Ms Bruce added: “The European Union and Ukrainian energy officials will be meeting with Russian representatives in Brussels today to set out an agreement for the supply of gas over the winter period with Russia claiming to be hopeful that a deal can be reached.”

On the power system, margins are at 6.4GW.

Coal is generating 1.3GW while wind is producing 2.5GW and expected to fall to 500MW this evening and into the weekend.

Ms Bruce said: “As a result, we are likely to see an increase in thermal generation online to cover the shortfall which may add further pressure to the gas system.”