Small energy company - power cut responsability

Gwendolyn

This is possibly a ridiculous question so apologies in advance. I've been contemplating switching away from the big suppliers for a while but I do have one major concern.

We live in a rural area and are subject to quite a few powercuts. Only 3 properties are served by one line coming out from the village. Who is responsible when we get a powercut?

If we are the only one in the area with a small supplier then it's likely it will take an age to get back on. But I can't see how that works given there are so many suppliers. Do National Grid have responsibility for the infrastructure?

missmaybesaver

Not ridiculous at all

Its up to the local network operator rather than your supplier to sort out power supply issues. The network operator depends on your region.

If you have a power cut you would just need to call 105 which puts you through to the network operator. The number is free and open 24/7.

If you’re meter stops working though then that would be the responsibility of your energy supplier.

HTH!

Raxiel

As you guessed in your last paragraph, the network operator (known as the DNO) for your area are responsible for maintaining supply.



Different operators cover different areas. For me, Natonal Grid are responsible for my Gas supply and Western Power Distribution handle electricity. If you don't know already, you should find out exactly who is responsible for yours and make a note of their respective emergency numbers.


It should be listed on your energy bill in the same section as your meter point numbers but no two suppliers lay out the information the same way.

macman

As above. The DNO remains the same, whatever supplier you use, so it makes no difference.
Just the same as applies with your phone line: OR maintains and repairs the local loop, regardless of supplier.