Power cut compensation calculator
Enter when your power went off and came back, and see what you're owed under Ofgem's rules. Free, and nothing is stored.
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What to do now
- Usually nothing: payments are normally automatic, from your electricity network (not your supplier).
- Keep a note of when the power went off and came back, and any reference number from 105.
- Nothing after a few months? Chase it with our free letter. A missed payment can earn an extra £40.
The rules at a glance
| Situation | First payment | Then | Maximum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local fault (fewer than 5,000 homes) | £100 after 12h | +£45 per 12h | – |
| Big outage (5,000+ homes) | £100 after 24h | +£45 per 12h | £400 |
| Storm, Category 1 | £90 after 24h | +£45 per 6h | £2,235 |
| Storm, Category 2 | £90 after 48h | +£45 per 6h | £2,235 |
| More than 4 cuts of 3h+ (1 April–31 March) | +£100 | Must claim | – |
Storm categories are declared by your network, based on how many faults the weather caused. They're not the same as Met Office warnings, so the calculator shows both.
Worked examples
£145 Local fault (fewer than 5,000 homes)
£145 Big outage (5,000+ homes)
£360 Category 1 storm
£180 Category 2 storm
Questions
How much compensation do I get for a power cut?
Under Ofgem's Guaranteed Standards, homes get £100 if the power is off for more than 12 hours (fewer than 5,000 homes affected) or more than 24 hours (5,000 or more affected), plus £45 for every further 12 hours. Big outages are capped at £400.
What do I get for a power cut caused by a storm?
If your network declares severe weather, you get £90 once you've been off for 24 hours (Category 1) or 48 hours (Category 2), then £45 for every further 6 hours, up to £2,235. The category depends on how many faults the storm caused, not on the Met Office warning.
Is power cut compensation paid automatically?
Usually, yes. Ofgem says standard and storm payments are made automatically by your electricity network operator. If nothing has arrived after a few months, chase it. A missed payment may earn you an extra £40. The £100 for repeated power cuts must be claimed.
Who pays power cut compensation: my supplier or the network?
Your local electricity network operator, the company that runs the cables in your area. Not the energy company you pay your bills to. Call 105 to find out who yours is.
Can I claim for food that spoiled in the freezer?
Not under Ofgem's rules, which don't cover spoiled food or damaged appliances. Check your home insurance, as many policies cover freezer contents.