Planned interruptions

Sometimes it is necessary for Western Power to interrupt power so we can safely carry out maintenance work or upgrade the network.  We do this only when it is absolutely necessary and try to time interruptions to cause as little disruption as possible. 

Western Power is required to provide at least three working days' (72 hours) notice of a planned interruption. 

During a planned interruption

• Switch off and unplug sensitive appliances (such as computers, TVs, VCRs, DVDs, fax machines, clock radios, microwave ovens and sound systems) to reduce the risk of damage from power surges or voltage sags that can occur when power is restored.
• Be sure to disconnect electric heaters from the power supply so they won’t present a hazard when power is restored.
• Turn off all but one light so that you will know when power is restored.
• Keep fridge doors closed. Food in fridges and freezers will keep for at least 12 hours if seals are in good condition and doors are kept closed.
• If you have a generator, only use it to provide power directly to appliances. Never connect it to the house switchboard or wiring as your equipment could be damaged when power is restored.
• Only run generators outdoors where the fumes can't cause illness.
• When power is restored please wait a few minutes before switching on appliances to avoid overloading the local distribution system.
• Have a 'standard' telephone available that does not require electricity to operate, or a mobile phone, so you can contact Western Power or emergency services.
• If you have automatic garage doors, know how to operate the doors manually.
• Check your meterbox to ensure that safety devices, including residual current devices, have not operated.

Code of conduct

Details about Western Power's obligations for planned interruptions are set out in Section 14.5 of the Electricity Industry Act (2004) Code of Conduct.  Electricity Industry Act (2004) Code of Conduct