IS YOUR POWER OUT?
POWER OUTAGES UPDATES AND SAFETY
Energy supply
Understanding electricity power outages
Is your power out?
You can search for current outages, or report an outage in your area, on the SA Power Network website.
The electricity distribution network that carries electricity to around 850,000 customers is operated and maintained by SA Power Networks(SAPN), which is a privately owned company.
If there is a blackout/power failure, SAPN is usually responsible for responding to the issue and restoring the electricity supply.
The state government is not responsible for the distribution network.
Power outage updates and safety
You can register for SA Power Networks’ free messaging service, Power@MyPlace, to receive information about power outages by SMS or email.
SA Power Networks also has tips for what to do when the power goes out to help you prepare for an outage and keep you safe.
Power outages often happen in summer due to higher demand on the electricity network. If you live in a bushfire risk area, your electricity supply may be interrupted due to a fault or fire, or SA Power Networks may turn off the power in your area to prevent a fire starting. See bushfire safety and severe weather safety for more information.
If the power is only out at your home, it may be an electrical fault. Check your safety switch is still in the ‘on’ position. If it is off and won’t stay switched on, contact a licensed electrician to investigate the cause of the problem.
If you or someone in your home uses life-supporting equipment that needs a reliable power supply, speak with your medical practitioner to set up an emergency plan for when the power goes out.
System maintenance
When SA Power Networks needs to maintain or upgrade the electricity network, they may need to interrupt the power supply. Affected customers will be notified by mail, newspaper or radio prior to a planned power interruption.
A list of scheduled power outages is available on the SA Power Networks website.
What to do if powerlines or poles have fallen
If you find broken powerlines or fallen poles:
- maintain a safe distance, as the powerlines may still be live
- report it to SA Power Networks on 13 13 66.
Find out more about powerline safety.