Power cut in a storm: what you may be owed
If a named storm has knocked your power out, your electricity network operator (not your energy supplier) may have to pay you a fixed amount. Storm cuts have longer waiting times than ordinary cuts.
Work out what you may be owed with our free calculator
What to do now
- Report the cut to your network operator, or call 105 (free) to be put through to them. The time you report it can affect what you may be owed.
- Note when your power went off and when it came back. A photo or text helps.
- If anyone at home relies on power for health reasons, say so when you call, and ask about the Priority Services Register.
- Keep your receipts if you had to spend money because of the cut.
What you may be owed in a storm
Your network operator decides whether a storm counts as category 1 or category 2. These longer waits replace the usual ones.
Power cut in a category 1 storm
- When it applies
- Off for more than 24 hours
- How much
- £90, then £45 for each further 6 hours, up to £2,235
- How it’s paid
- Paid automatically within 28 days.
- Deadline to claim
- If it isn't paid, claim within 3 months of it ending. There's no deadline if you're on the Priority Services Register.
The published rule
Power cut in a category 2 storm
- When it applies
- Off for more than 48 hours
- How much
- £90, then £45 for each further 6 hours, up to £2,235
- How it’s paid
- Paid automatically within 28 days.
- Deadline to claim
- If it isn't paid, claim within 3 months of it ending. There's no deadline if you're on the Priority Services Register.
The published rule
After the power is back
The payment comes from your network operator, not your energy supplier. If it hasn’t arrived when it should, contact the operator and claim. Damaged food or electrical items aren’t covered by this scheme.
Use the free calculator or read the full power cut compensation guide.