I WELCOME the opportunity to clarify comments made in the article “Energy provider not switched on” (Central Western Daily, July 23), and to allay any concerns readers may have about the electricity supply in the Orange area.
In recent months Essential Energy representatives have worked co-operatively with Orange City Council to provide information regarding the electricity supply in Orange, including unplanned power interruptions and the maintenance programs and network upgrades planned to deliver a safe and reliable power supply to local homes and businesses.
A further meeting with council has been scheduled to be held next month.
When unplanned power supply interruptions occur, Essential Energy provides information to customers about expected restoration times through our Supply Interruption line - 13 20 80 - and via social media.
We also provide updates to local radio stations of the status of supply interruptions that affect large or critical areas to ensure customers receive accurate and timely information about what is happening in their area.
Essential Energy has also provided information to local press following recent unplanned power interruptions that expanded on actions taken to rectify the problem and improve the reliability of supply to customers in Orange.
This work included the completion of three major network upgrades to boost supply capacity in the business district which will not only deliver a safe and reliable electricity supply, but also a more sustainable supply by catering for the city’s future growth.
Essential Energy conducts ongoing maintenance of all our electricity assets, including poles and wires, and has a rolling asset inspection program to identify where upgrades are necessary. Customers are advised of any planned outages associated with this work via customer letter, press or radio advertisements.
I encourage any customer with questions regarding their electricity supply to contact our general enquiries line on 13 23 91.
Phillip Green,
Essential Energy regional
general manager, south eastern