Ready & Sorted: Power cuts
Power cuts, sorted
Everything for when the lights go out: what to do first, what still works, what doesn’t, and what you might be owed afterwards.
Power off right now? Call 105, free, in England, Scotland and Wales. In Northern Ireland, call NIE Networks on 03457 643643. The step-by-step is at powercutsorted.co.uk.
The guides
Power cuts
Torch or candles in a power cut? Why a torch is safer, and which one to keep
A torch is safer than candles in a power cut. Here is which torch to keep, where to store it and what to do if candles are your only light.
Updated 1 October 2026
Power cuts
Will my landline work in a power cut? The digital switchover, battery back-ups and telecare
Digital landlines usually stop in a power cut. Learn who gets free battery backup, what the switchover means, and how to check telecare safely.
Updated 30 September 2026
Power cuts
Do solar panels work in a power cut? UK homes, batteries and plug-in panels
Most UK solar panels switch off in a power cut. Learn when batteries provide backup, how plug-in panels behave and what to check safely.
Updated 30 September 2026
Power cuts
What is my load block letter? Rota power cuts and rolling blackouts explained
Your load block letter (A to U) decides your home's turn in a rota power cut. Find it by postcode at powercut105.com or on your electricity bill.
Updated 29 September 2026
Power cuts
What to do in a power cut in the UK: the first 10 minutes, the first 12 hours, and after
Power cut? Call 105 free in England, Scotland and Wales, or 03457 643643 in NI. What to do in the first 10 minutes, if it lasts, and after.
Updated 29 September 2026
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From our shop
The Essentials Kit puts the non-food essentials from the Prepare list in one bag. It isn’t on sale yet.
It’s not a blackout. It’s a bit dark.