SP Energy Networks
SP Energy Networks look after the electricity network that delivers
electricity to your home and is responsible for all the overhead
lines, underground cables and substations in Cheshire, Merseyside
and North Wales.
SP Energy networks are committed to giving you the best possible
service. We aim to provide you with a safe and reliable electricity
supply.
Faults 
From time to time faults on our network do occur which are beyond our control for example severe weather, other companies damaging our cables and vandalism.
We appreciate that a supply interruption can cause inconvenience
and listed below are a few hints and tips to help you through this
period.
(Some tips may not be possible if the supply interruption is due to
a fault)
Helpful Tips for Use during a Power Outage
- Switch off electric cookers and fires and unplug sensitive equipment such as TV’s, video’s, computers and faxes.
- Leave one light on so that you will know when the supply is restored.
- Do not open Fridge / Freezer door more than is absolutely necessary as they will stay cold for many hours
- In winter months keep a torch handy because natural light fails rapidly late afternoon. If possible avoid the use of candles, as they can be a fire hazard.
- Please keep an eye on elderly or infirm people living nearby and if you have an alternative method of cooking, try to make sure that they have some hot food or drink even if it is only a flask of hot water.
- If you are elderly or infirm, try to ensure that relatives, neighbours or local welfare groups are aware of the supply interruption so that they can make arrangements for your well-being. Keep warm by staying in one room or even in bed and remember your central heating boiler will not work without electricity. If you use an alternative form of heating make sure that you use it safely.
If you use a portable generator to provide a temporary supply
during a supply interruption then it MUST be connected by a
QUALIFIED PERSON.
Keep our POWER LOSS number to hand 0845 272 2424
Planned shutdowns
Sometimes we have to switch the power off to carry out maintenance
on our electrical network. We will give you time to prepare for
this planned shutdown by writing to you at least five days in
advance.
- For a planned shutdown set your freezer to maximum about 12 hours before the shut down. Make sure that you do not open the door to your fridge or freezer more than is essential. Always remember to return the settings back to normal when the supply is restored.
- If you have a satellite receiver, remember to switch it off in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations before a planned interruption.
- If you use a computer remember to back up your work before any published time of interruption.
Some other Useful ideas
- If candles are used DO NOT leave lighted candles unattended or stand them on something flammable.
- Have spare batteries for radios, torches etc. (Rechargeable batteries are a good idea whenever possible).
- Lots of modern phones, particularly cordless ones won’t work during a power cut. Keep an ordinary phone on each floor of your home.
- Try to keep a battery –operated radio somewhere handy listen to the local radio. We will keep them informed of electricity supply problems in your area, especially during winter months or at times of severe weather.
- If you have a stair lift and its mains operated it will stop during a power cut. Check to see if there is a manual release handle that can be used to return the lift safely to ground level if it stops halfway between floors.
- Some stair lifts have back up power. This automatically takes over and keeps the lift working if there is a power cut.
- Keep important contact telephone numbers in a handy place.
- If you have electric gates make sure that you understand how to open / close them manually.
Keep our POWER LOSS number to hand 0845 272
2424