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History made as Wales make Euro 2016 semi-final

Wales reached their first ever semi-final of a major tournament with a magnificent 3-1 victory over Belgium in Lille.

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Experts predict power demand for Wales v Portugal

Experts are predicting a surge in power demand as Wales take on Portugal in their Euro 2016 semi-final on Wednesday.

Analysts at the National Grid anticipate a 500 megawatt surge at half time - the equivalent of 200,000 kettles being switched on at once, or enough to power an area two-and-a-half times the size of Cardiff in winter.

Experts predict a surge in power demand at half-time as everyone pauses to make a cup of tea. Credit: Chris Radburn/PA Wire

They said the surge in demand, known as 'TV pick-up', occurs as people boil kettles, open fridge doors or turn on the lights at the same time - often at the end of programmes or during breaks.

A spokeswoman for the company said staff will be watching the game live to know when demand for power will increase.

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