TOOLSTATION has reported an increase in the sales of generators, torches and head torches after the National Grid warned that blackouts are possible this winter due to gas supply shortages.

Comparing data from the first 11 days of October 2021 to the same period this year revealed a 203 per cent increase in sales of generators and a 43 per cent rise in sales of torches.

A Toolstation spokesperson said: “Although it’s far from certain that the National Grid will have to resort to blackouts, it’s clear customers are preparing for the worst. 

“With the clocks going back on October 30, the sun will start setting just after 4.30pm.

“For this reason, we’re not surprised to see the UK preparing by purchasing torches and head torches to provide light in the event of power cuts. 

“While generators are typically used on building sites and by holidaymakers on camping trips to provide electrical energy, the increase in sales suggests savvy homeowners are finding a use for them. This is supported by the fact that we’ve seen an uplift in sales of inverter generators specifically. 

“These are ideal for powering electrical equipment like lamps, fan heaters and TVs because they provide clean and stable power and are portable and economic to run.”