What to do if your electricity supply is threatened

When the electricity supply is threatened, there is a range of small energy-saving actions you can take that have a big impact on ensuring the grid remains stable and the lights stay on. 

Reduce use in peak times

Peak times, between 3 pm and 8 pm, are when the threat to the electricity supply is highest. There are simple actions you can take to reduce the risk of outages occurring, including:

• turning off and unplug appliances when you’re not using them
• turning off lights when you’re not in a room
• avoiding non-essential activities such as pool pumps, washing machines, dryers and dishwashers, or charging electric vehicles, if possible.

Other energy-saving changes

• 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 air fryer.
• In cold weather, warm only the areas of your home you use and if possible, adjust your inside temperature to between 18 and 20 degrees.
• In hot weather, cool only the areas of your home you use and if possible, adjust your inside temperature to between 24 and 26 degrees.

Have an emergency kit

It’s important to have an emergency kit prepared and make sure everyone knows where it is. If you don’t have an emergency kit, it’s a good idea to prepare one. A kit can include:    

• any emergency or health equipment you may need, including medications
• LED torches, remember to check the batteries and have spares available
• a list of emergency and important phone numbers written down
• a car charger for your mobile phone and other USB devices. Be sure to run the vehicle outside in the shade with good ventilation to avoid exhaust fumes building up in and around your home
• cash, which can be used during prolonged outages in case electronic payment systems at local shops are down.

Know who to contact in emergencies or for updates

Always call Triple Zero (000) immediately in life-threatening or emergency situations

It is also important to ensure your electricity retailer has your mobile number so that you can get SMS alerts with the latest updates. Your retailer is the company that sends you your electricity bill.  

You should know who your network provider is so you can get updates about any threats or outages as they occur. Details about your network provider can usually be found on your electricity bill or on the Australian Energy Regulator’s website.