A NSW Government website

What to do if electricity supply is threatened

Important steps you can take to help conserve energy in emergency situations.

In the event of an energy disruption, we need you to take action at home. Your small actions could make a big difference to you and your neighbours. 

Turn it off

Between 5:30 pm and 10.30pm: 

  • Turn off any non-essential appliances.
  • Use lights only in occupied rooms.
  • Turn off your pool pump and filter.
  • Turn off appliances and lights that are not in use.

Switch and save

  • Change hot water for cold in your washing machine.
  • Use your clothesline instead of a dryer.
  • Swap your stove or oven for a microwave or cook free dinner.

During the day when it’s hot

  • Consider using a fan instead of air-conditioning or evaporative cooling, unless you're at risk from the heat.
  • If you can adjust inside temperature, switch it to 24-26 degrees. When leaving the house, close your blinds, doors and windows to keep your house cool.
  • Focus on cooling one part of your house and cut down in other areas.

During the night when it’s cooler

  • Focus on heating one part of your house and cut down in other areas.
  • If you can adjust inside temperature, switch it to 18-20 degrees.

By making small changes at critical times, you can help the electricity network get back to normal as quickly as possible.

Check with your network provider for updates in your area. Contact details for electricity distributors in NSW are available on the Australian Energy Regulator’s website.

For information on how to stay safe and beat the heat, visit the NSW Department of Health’s Beat the Heat website.

Extreme weather fact sheet

If English isn’t your first language, please call 131 450. Ask for an interpreter in your language and then request to be connected to our Information Centre on 1300 305 695. 

Extreme weather fact sheet is available in the following languages: