The National Grid yesterday issued an unprecedented warning that demand for gas may exceed supply, and that limits may have to be placed on usage.

The supply problems have been caused by a combination of unexpectedly cold weather leading to increased demand, plus a fire at a major gas storage facility putting it out of action.

Any limits imposed would hit commercial customers first, and although limits on residential use haven’t been ruled out there appears to be little immediate danger of this happening.

The news sent wholesale gas prices spiralling, quadrupling to 250p a therm, raising fears of yet more energy price rises in the pipeline.

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