“We apologise to our 1730 customers who were without power while our crews worked replacing the cross arm and essential network equipment to return supply,”

Essential Energy’s regional general manager, Chas McPhail said.

“Essential Energy crews worked as quickly as the conditions on the ground would allow - we always have our customers needs in mind but safety has to come first when we’re out getting the power back on.”

Essential Energy is part way through a five year, $6 billion network investment program, Mr McPhail said, to deliver a “more reliable, efficient and safe power supply to our customers”.

“Our network plan, which outlines our program of work for the next five years, will ensure that our networks are maintained and enhanced to meet growing demand and integrate Intelligent Network initiatives that facilitate better network and customer power supply management capabilities,” he said.

“Emergency network repairs are given priority and completed as quickly and safely as possible.” Any interruption to power supply should be reported to Essential Energy on 13 20 80.