And if we had reliable base load power the PHS could be much...

And if we had reliable base load power the PHS could be much smaller and still achieve the desired outcome, BESS will always be required for FCAS every time a cloud appears across a large solar farm or a front moves in. And the gas peakers probably won't be required at all. The PHS should be replacing peakers not base load and that is my issue, but I cant find anything to I have said to come to the conclusion that the PHS and BESS are my nemesis, or that I will be sad when any power station closes except when it results in higher prices (as is happening now) and loss of supply.
And these PPA are a paper shuffle and in no way help in the transition to renewable energy. There is nothing to stop the seller buying the falsely cheap energy when its available and selling it as their "green" energy, as you have indicated occurred in the scenario presented. They had gas back up to guarantee supply so upped the "green" availability.

take note of the factual information below
Wind Energy Statistics - RenewableUK

Onshore Wind Projects
Onshore Turbines	8,812 Onshore Operational Projects 2,602 Onshore Operational Capacity (MW) 14,206.635
Offshore Wind Projects
Offshore Turbines	2,652 Offshore Operational Projects 43 Offshore Operational Capacity (MW) 13,660.020
TOTAL:
Operational Capacity (MW)	27,866.655 Energy Produced (MWh/p.a.) 77,725,228
Homes Powered Equivalent (p.a.)	20,737,788 CO2 reductions (pa) in Tonnes 33,577,299

British wind turbines including the extensive north sea off shore, Britain considered one of the best countries to have wind resources
Rated MW.hr capacity 243,528,000 PA Produced 77,725,228 PA
Note that the balance between on shore and of shore capacity is close to equal.

Capacity factor 0.319 FACT