If you're experiencing a power cut or outage, please call 105 to report it or get more information. This free service is available 24/7 and is provided by Electricity North West, which is responsible for managing the power network in North West England.

Hartington Road
Preston
PR1 8AF
Electricity North West is the electricity distribution network operator for the North West of England, responsible for delivering power to homes and businesses. They manage over 8,000 miles of overhead lines and 27,000 miles of underground cables, supplying electricity to approximately 5 million people. Their mission is to provide a safe, reliable, and efficient electricity supply while supporting the transition to a low-carbon future.
If you experience a power cut, here are the steps to follow:
In North West England, power cuts may occur due to emergency situations such as extreme weather, accidental damage to the grid, or necessary maintenance. Electricity North West works to restore power as quickly as possible, but in some cases, planned outages may be required for maintenance or infrastructure upgrades.
For more details on power cuts in your area, visit the Emergency Power Cuts page.
The North West’s diverse landscape and weather conditions can sometimes make power cuts more frequent or prolonged, especially in rural or coastal areas. Severe winter weather, storms, and rugged terrain can disrupt electricity supply. Power lines may be affected by fallen trees or ice, leading to outages that take longer to repair, particularly in remote areas.
The North West has experienced significant power outages due to severe weather events. For instance, Storm Ciara in February 2020 left approximately 100,000 homes without power across the region, with wind speeds reaching high levels. The storm caused widespread disruption, including school closures and transport delays. In the aftermath, around 15,000 homes were still without power several days later.
The PSR is a free service offered by Electricity North West to provide additional support to customers who may need extra help during a power cut or with their energy supply. This includes individuals who are elderly, have young children, are disabled, or have a medical condition requiring electricity. By joining the PSR, customers can receive priority updates during power outages, advance notice of planned works, and access to additional support services.
How to Join:
Customers can join the PSR by
Calling: 0800 195 4141
Emailing: customerwelfareteam@enwl.co.uk
Online: www.enwl.co.uk/priority
When registering, it’s helpful to provide details about the specific support needed, such as medical equipment that relies on electricity or mobility issues.
Electricity North West is investing £2 billion over five years to modernise the electricity network in the North West. This investment aims to improve reliability, support the integration of low-carbon technologies, and enhance the resilience of the network. The plan includes upgrading infrastructure, implementing smart grid technologies, and preparing the network for future energy demands.
Solent Power Ltd (Company Number 12622565) is a company registered in England and Wales. Our registered office is located at Station yard, Bowes Hill, Rowlands Castle PO9 6BP. VAT No. 363504018