Business support

• Identify critical business functions that rely on electricity and how they can operate without mains power.
• Assign key roles to employees for emergency procedures.
• Establish communication plans to notify employees, customers and suppliers.
• Keep a list of essential contacts (electricians, generator hire, IT support, security, catering, etc.). Dial 105 to report a power cut.
• Consider conducting an annual power cut test so everyone knows the necessary procedure. Simulate the power cut by switching off mains power (under controlled conditions).

• Consider installing an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for essential equipment if it’s suitable for your business.
• Evaluate the need for a backup generator to keep operations running. Find out more UK's Leading Generator Hire Company.
• Ensure fuel supply and maintenance schedules are in place for machinery and back up equipment.
• Contemplate if there is the requirement for separate communication systems such as walkie-talk-ies and satellite phone.

• Use surge protectors to safeguard valuable electronics where possible.
• Regularly back up important digital files and store them securely.
• Have manual alternatives for essential tools (e.g., cash tills, lighting, security shutters).
• Establish how IT will be backed up and operate when without power.

• Stock up on battery-powered lighting, such as torches and lighting towers.
• Maintain a supply of portable chargers for communication devices.
• Store enough non-perishable food and water for employee needs.

• Know where your electrical panel is located in case manual reset is required.
• Keep contact details for Electricity North West to contact us on 105 or 0800 195 4141.
• Our live power cuts can be monitored on our Fault list.

• If your business relies on refrigeration, plan for safe food storage during outages. Fridge contents stay cold for 4-6 hours, freezers stay cold for 24-48 hours. Remember to keep the doors closed to keep the cold air inside.
• Consider alternative working arrangements, such as remote access solutions from home or a hotel.
• Provide evacuation chairs for people with disabilities in case lifts stop working.
• Prepare for seasonal temperature changes. Keep blankets and bottled water in an emergency kit.
• If needed, install battery backups and test security systems regularly. Ensure employees knows how to manually override secure doors and gates. Consider extra security personnel if required.
• Inform customers and suppliers in advance about potential disruptions.

• Never operate generators indoors due to carbon monoxide risks.
• Avoid using candles— use battery-powered alternatives instead.
• Establish if anyone has vulnerabilities or living with a disability who will need extra support during a power cut.

• Look outside to see if streetlights or neighbouring properties are affected.
• Ask employees if the issue is isolated to specific equipment or areas.
• Check your fuse box or circuit breaker for any tripped switches. For details visit Checks to do if you've lost power
• Report a power cut online or by calling 105.

• Ensure employees and emergency exits have light with torches or back up lighting.
• Keep employees informed and ensure everyone knows emergency procedures.
• Secure entrances and exits if electronic security systems are affected.

• Inform us that you have a power cut by calling 105 or visiting our live power cut information web page to check if a power cut in your area has been reported and for updates. Try to establish how long the power will be off for.  Report the power cut online.

• Switch off sensitive equipment to prevent damage and safety risks when power is restored. Phase down equipment by switching off equipment in a specific planned order.
• If refrigeration is critical, minimise opening fridge/freezer doors.
• Ensure employees with vulnerabilities or anyone living with a disability has the support they need.
• Inform the relevant suppliers and customers about the power cut and how it may affect them.
• Ensure IT computer systems are backed up as planned.
• If possible, activate backup generators or alternative power sources. [MAYBE WE HAVE A SEPARATE GENERATOR/BACK UP POWER WEB PAGE]

We understand that being without power is challenging, and many customers ask why we can't provide a generator during power cuts.  A generator isn't always the best solution for every situation.  When deciding whether to use a generator, we consider each case individually.  The same engineers who repair the power cut are needed to install a generator, which can delay the overall repair process.  Generators are typically used when repairs are extensive and will take a long time.

In exceptional circumstances, such as weddings or funerals, we do our best to provide a generator to minimise the impact of the power cut.

Distribution network operators, including ENWL are responsible for the electricity distribution network, not for providing on-site generation or backup power as this is a business decision and responsibility. Businesses are generally responsible for their own backup power systems, like generators, if they require them.

Hiring a generator

After reviewing the impact of a power cut on your business you might feel like hiring a generator is the best option for you. Generator Power are our approved generator supplier, you can find out more about their services here.

• Use mobile phones or battery-powered devices to stay connected.
• Update customers about delays or alternative arrangements.
• Have a manual payment system if card machines are down.

• Listen for updates on estimated restoration times.
• When power returns, turn equipment back on gradually to avoid surges.
• Check for any damages or electrical faults before resuming full operations.