Over the weekend electricity engineers have restored power to around 177,000 homes and businesses affected by damage caused by Storm Malik.
The vast majority of customers without power now are in the north of Scotland and are experiencing disruption as a result of the second storm, Storm Corrie, which hit overnight following two amber weather warnings in the region.
Around 45,000 customers are without power (as of 10am on Monday 31 January), as engineers, technicians and support staff work to reconnect electricity as quickly and safely as possible.
Restoration efforts from Storm Corrie will continue into Tuesday with the possibility that for small clusters of customers this may extend into Wednesday, subject to today’s damage assessment.
Energy network companies are working with emergency services, Local Resilience Forums and multi-agency partners to provide extra help and support to customers who are without power.
Storms Malik and Corrie brought down trees which, in turn, has brought down electricity cables in some areas. If you see a damaged power line or other damaged infrastructure, keep as far away from the hazard as possible and contact your network operator immediately by calling 105 for free. If there is an immediate risk to life or someone is in danger, dial 999.
Peter Kocen from Energy Networks Association, which represents the industry said:
“Network operators restored power to 177,000 customers who have been affected by the storms over the weekend and last night. We are continuing to work as quickly and safely as possible to reconnect everyone, with 45,500 people without power just now. We are working closely with local authorities to coordinate a community response and provide support, including hot meals and respite, to those affected.”
Notes to editor
- Customers without power in the north of Scotland can find information on welfare facilities and support through the Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks website, or by calling 105.
- Customers without power in the north east of England and Yorkshire can find information on welfare facilities and support through Northern Powergrid’s social media channels, or by calling 105.
About Energy Networks Association
Energy Networks Association (ENA) is the industry body representing the electricity wires, gas pipes and energy system in the UK and Ireland.
ENA helps its members meet the challenge of delivering electricity and gas to communities across the UK and Ireland safely, sustainably and reliably.
Its members include every major electricity and gas network operator in the UK and Ireland, independent operators, National Grid ESO which operates the electricity system in Great Britain and National Gas which operates the gas system in Great Britain. Its affiliate membership also includes companies with an interest in energy, including Heathrow Airport and Network Rail.
What are energy network operators?
Energy network operators manage and maintain the wires, pipes and other infrastructure which delivers electricity and gas to your home, business and community. They are private companies which are regulated by Ofgem and employ around 40,000 people in Great Britain.