Ofgem probes energy firms on power cuts
OFGEM yesterday said that it is going to investigate UK Power Networks’ (UKPN) and SSE’s performance during the Christmas storms, after the two electricity distribution network operators were found to have been the slowest in responding to customers.
The energy regulator is also looking to increase payments to customers who have their electricity cut off for an extended period of time during severe weather.
UKPN covers the London region, while SSE Southern regions covers central southern England, including Reading and Slough.
It is estimated that 26,000 customers could be entitled to claim £2m following the Christmas storms.
“Our principal duty is to protect the interest of consumers. We will be looking at increasing guaranteed standards payments during severe weather,” said Hannah Nixon, senior partner for distribution at Ofgem.
UKPN said it welcomed the review, while SSE said: “We will work constructively with the regulator by bringing forward our response to your storm feedback.”
Ofgem’s announcement follows a government review into the issue which called for measures to improve responsiveness to power cuts in poor weather, including a new hotline.