Report it: call 105
For an unplanned power cut, you can report it on your network operator's website or call 105 free, which puts you through to your local electricity network operator (Ofgem).
Great Britain: payments outside severe weather
These Ofgem rules apply in England, Scotland and Wales.
| Situation | Payment |
|---|---|
| Fewer than 5,000 properties affected, power off more than 12 hours | £100 |
| More than 5,000 properties affected, power off more than 24 hours | £100 |
| Each additional 12 hours without power | £45 |
Source: Ofgem: Check if you can get a payment for a power cut.
Severe weather
Ofgem says network operators must restore supply within 12 hours outside severe weather, 24 hours in "category 1" severe storms and 48 hours in "category 2" storms, depending on how many homes are affected (Ofgem).
Northern Ireland: NIE Networks guaranteed standards
The Ofgem payments above don't apply in Northern Ireland. There, NIE Networks says it will restore your electricity within 24 hours of a power cut. If it doesn't, you're due £50 for your home, then £25 for every further 12 hours. You must claim within 1 month of the day of the interruption. In circumstances outside its control, such as severe weather, the standards may not apply, and exemptions for exceptional events mean no payment would be due (NIE Networks: customer standards).
Extra help: the Priority Services Register
If you or someone you live with needs extra support, join the Priority Services Register with your supplier and network operator. Help can include priority support in an emergency where possible and advance notice of planned power cuts (Ofgem).
Is a backup generator worth it?
Compensation won't keep your freezer, water pump or heating running. If your home relies on electricity for water (a borehole pump) or heating (a heat pump or an oil boiler's controls), a properly installed backup supply can be worth considering. See our off-grid power page, and never run a generator indoors: the NHS lists portable generators among sources of carbon monoxide (NHS).
Frequently asked questions
How much compensation do I get for a power cut?
In Great Britain, Ofgem says homes can get £100 if fewer than 5,000 properties are affected for more than 12 hours, or more than 5,000 for more than 24 hours, plus £45 for each additional 12 hours. Different time limits apply in severe weather. In Northern Ireland, NIE Networks pays £50 if power isn't restored within 24 hours, then £25 for every further 12 hours, if you claim within 1 month.
What number do I call in a power cut?
Call 105 free. It puts you through to your local electricity network operator.