Ausgrid postpones work ahead of heatwave conditions

28 February 2024

Ausgrid has postponed non-essential work across Sydney and the Hunter region ahead of tomorrow’s forecasted weather conditions.

Work has been cancelled across Engadine, Hornsby, Raymond Terrace and Neath with temperatures in some parts of the network expected to soar to over 40 degrees.

In making the decision to cancel jobs, Ausgrid considers the safety of both customers and crews, the nature of the work and the number of customers affected.

Ausgrid’s Group Executive for Operations Sam Sofi said Ausgrid also has emergency crews on standby ready to respond to any power outages that occur across the network.

“During these periods of extreme weather, the safety of our customers and employees remains our priority,” he said. “Proactively reviewing and postponing certain work is an essential part of our extreme weather response.

“This allows our operations team to be vigilant across the network and ensure our emergency crews are ready to respond to any unplanned outages as quickly as possible.”

Ausgrid will continue to review all its planned work which requires power to be interrupted to customers.

In places where temperatures are forecast to reach 37 degrees, planned maintenance work is usually cancelled, except in cases where customers agree to the work going ahead.

Ausgrid customers can opt in for text message notifications via their electricity retailer to get up-to-date information about all work in their area or they can contact Ausgrid directly on 13 13 65.

With the upcoming heatwave conditions, Ausgrid is urging residents to take protective measures to stay cool and save money:

Optimise air conditioning usage. Set thermostats to between 23 and 26 degrees. Lowering the temperature by a single degree can add up to 10% to your costs. Use the power save mode if available.

Embrace alternative cooling methods. Consider using fans for additional air circulation and comfort.

Think about passive cooling: Blinds and awnings block direct sunlight and naturally cool living spaces.

For more advice go to: Heatwaves and the electricity network.

Ausgrid Media | 9966 7985