The number 105, which is free to use, has been launched to help customers easily contact their network power operator to report or get up-to-date information about power cuts, as well as report damage to power lines and substations that could put themselves, or someone else, in danger.
Electricity North West has joined forces with the country’s other power network operators to fund and deliver the three digit number, which is a first for the UK’s energy industry. The number is available to electricity customers in England, Scotland and Wales.
The launch comes as figures reveal that 72% of people don’t know who to contact if they have a power cut, with a further 43% indicating that they would incorrectly call the electricity supplier they pay their bill to, when in fact they should contact their local electricity network operator.
Stephanie Trubshaw, head of customer experience for Electricity North West, said: “The new 105 number is a great addition to our existing customer contact methods and it allows customers, no matter where they are based in the country, to contact their electricity network operator to report any power issues or safety concerns and receive up-to-date and relevant information and reassurance quickly and directly.
“Thankfully for most people power cuts are very rare, but they can have a big impact. We invest millions in upgrading and maintaining the power network to prevent any unexpected outages, but it’s important for our customers to be able to easily contact us if they do experience any issues and the new nationally recognised 105 number will help make that possible.
“Our current number, 0800 195 4141, will still be in operation alongside our social channels 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, but now our customers can call us with an easy to remember 105 number as well.”
Electricity network operators are the companies that manage and maintain the power lines and substations that bring electricity into homes and businesses . The research, commissioned by the operators’ trade body Energy Networks Association (ENA) found that 21% of people would contact their electricity network operator in a power cut, yet, of these, only 11% could correctly name their local operator.
People can also call 105 from most landlines and mobile phones, no matter who they choose to buy electricity from, if they spot damage to electricity power lines and substations. It is a free service, available to people in England, Scotland and Wales.
More information about 105 and electricity network operators can be found at www.powercut105.com. The new website also provides direct links and details of how to contact network operators online and via social media to get information and updates about a power cut.
