Check for a power cut in your area

Experiencing a power cut can be unsettling, but knowing precisely what to do and who to contact can make a significant difference. This guide provides clear, actionable steps for checking power cuts in your area, directing you to official resources, and clarifying how Fuse Energy supports its customers during outages.

When you're dealing with a power cut, understanding your energy account shouldn't add to the stress. Fuse Energy offers clear pricing and 24/7 human customer support to help you manage your energy with ease. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy today.

Understanding power cuts: who to contact

When your lights go out, your first thought might be to call your energy supplier. However, the UK energy system divides responsibilities, meaning a different company handles power cuts.

Energy supplier vs network operator

Your energy supplier, like Fuse Energy, is the company you pay your bills to; they handle your account, tariffs, and customer service. They sell you the electricity and gas. However, they are not responsible for the physical infrastructure that delivers energy to your home.

Instead, Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) are the companies licensed to maintain the electricity cables, power lines, and substations in specific geographical areas. If there's a power cut, it's your DNO's job to fix it and restore your supply. Great Britain has several DNO regions, managed by different operators.

The 105 power cut helpline

The national power cut helpline, 105, is a free, easy-to-remember number to call if you experience a power cut in England, Scotland, or Wales. This service is available 24/7 and will automatically connect you to your local DNO. You can call 105 to report a power cut, get updates, or if you see damaged power lines or equipment.

How to check for a power cut in your area

To quickly determine if a power cut is affecting your area, follow these steps:

Identifying your distribution network operator (DNO)

Knowing your local DNO is crucial. The quickest way to find them is by using the Energy Networks Association (ENA) postcode lookup tool. Simply enter your postcode on their website, and it will provide you with your DNO's name, their 24-hour fault number, and a link to their website. Alternatively, the first two digits of your electricity Meter Point Administration Number (MPAN), found on your energy bill, can also identify your DNO.

Using your DNO's online tools and maps

Once you know your DNO, visit their website. Most DNOs offer live power cut maps and online tools where you can enter your postcode to check for known outages and receive estimated restoration times. Many also allow you to sign up for text message alerts for updates.

Asking neighbours and local communities

A simple way to confirm if the outage is widespread or isolated to your property is to check if your neighbours also have no power. If their power is on, the issue might be internal to your home, such as a tripped Fuse or a prepayment meter running out of credit. Local community groups or social media can also sometimes provide real-time information on local outages.

What to do during a power cut

Power cuts can be inconvenient, but taking the right actions can ensure your safety and minimise disruption.

Prioritising safety

Safety is paramount during an outage. Keep clear of damaged power lines or equipment. Turn off and unplug non-essential electrical appliances, especially those that generate heat like irons, ovens, and electric fires, to prevent damage from power surges when the supply returns. Use battery-powered torches instead of candles to avoid fire hazards.

Food and appliance considerations

Keep your fridge and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain their temperature and preserve food. A full freezer can keep food frozen for longer than a half-empty one. If the power cut is prolonged, consider using a cooler with ice.

Staying informed

Stay informed about the power cut by checking your DNO's website or calling 105. If you have a battery-powered or wind-up radio, you can use it for news updates, as mobile phone signals and internet connections might be disrupted during an extended outage.

Getting extra support: the Priority Services Register

The Priority Services Register (PSR) is a free UK-wide service offering additional support to vulnerable customers during power cuts and other energy-related issues.

Who is eligible for the PSR?

Many people are eligible for the PSR, including:

• Individuals of state pension age: Those aged 66 or over.
• Those with young children: Households with children aged five and under.
• People with a disability or a long-term medical condition: This includes mental health conditions, conditions affecting sight, hearing, or sense of smell, and conditions that need mains-powered medical equipment.
• Individuals recovering from injury or a recent hospital stay.
• Those with communication needs: Such as visual or hearing impairments.
• Anyone going through a disruptive life event: Like bereavement or job loss.

Eligibility is not restricted to these groups, and households may qualify if anyone living at the address is considered vulnerable, even temporarily.

How to register for the PSR

You can register for the PSR by contacting your local DNO or your energy supplier directly. The registration process is free and typically involves providing some personal details, including a reason for eligibility, and optionally, a secondary contact person. This ensures you receive priority updates, tailored communication, and extra assistance during supply interruptions.

Fuse Energy and power cuts: what we can help with

Fuse Energy is committed to providing clear guidance and support to its customers, especially during stressful situations like power cuts.

Account-specific support during an outage

While Fuse Energy cannot directly fix power cuts, its 24/7 human customer support is available for any account-specific queries you might have during an outage. This includes questions about your billing, understanding how an outage might affect your tariff, or smart meter readings if your meter is offline.

Distinguishing Fuse's role

It's important to remember that Fuse Energy is your energy supplier, responsible for selling you energy and managing your account. We are not responsible for the electricity network or gas supply infrastructure. Power cuts are the responsibility of your local DNO, and they are the ones who will restore your power. Fuse Energy aims to empower you with the correct information and resources to navigate power cuts effectively.

Managing your energy during unexpected events like power cuts can be challenging. At Fuse Energy, we believe in making energy simple and transparent. Our app provides clear usage data, and our 24/7 human support team is always ready to help with your account queries, ensuring you have peace of mind.

Ready for an energy supplier that puts you first? Click here to switch to Fuse Energy today. You can also learn more about our mission to build a sustainable energy future here.