There have been widespread media reports about the risk over the winter of emergency power cuts. People you work with may have concerns about this and may be asking you questions. In order to help with this, Northern Powergrid have prepared some information for organisations to share.
Whilst emergency power cuts are unlikely, it is nevertheless important that residents and businesses are prepared if their power supply is ever affected - whether by a routine local network issue, the impact of severe weather, or a wider national energy emergency.
If customers rely on electricity to power medical equipment and don’t know what would happen to this in a power cut, they should speak to their healthcare (GP/NHS) or medical equipment provider now for advice. Network operators, like Northern Powergrid, cannot do this for them. It is vital that these customers have a plan in place and test their back up supply arrangements, so that they are ready if their power is ever affected. If they do not have a backup plan they should speak with their healthcare or medical equipment provider to arrange one.
Northern Powergrid strongly encourage any medical dependent electricity customers to also sign up as Priority Services Members with their customer care team, by calling 0800 169 2996 or by completing the online form.
It is also recommend that all customers visit their Be Prepared webpage to read important advice and understand what they should do before, during and after a power cut.
You can find out latest updates and information on how to understand emergency power cuts by visiting the dedicated webpage on the Northern Powergrid website and by downloading the FAQ Document.