Specialist technicians will upgrade switch gear and critical operating equipment at the Dorrigo Zone Substation, with the work part of a larger project that will see the Substation upgraded and a new switching building constructed.

Regional manager North Coast, Brendon Neyland, said the work, once complete, would strengthen the electricity network and secure a more reliable power supply to Dorrigo.

“Essential Energy will be undertaking work at the Dorrigo Zone Substation over the next nine months.

“Work includes upgrades to the infrastructure and lines carrying power in and out of the zone and construction of a new switching building,” Brendon said. “The new switch building will house improved technology allowing crews to identify faults more quickly and move power around the network, minimising the time customers are without supply during an unplanned outage – such as during a storm or major fault.”

Customers will experience a planned power outage for five hours overnight starting Saturday 14 May at 10pm and running until 3am on Sunday 15 May 2016, weather permitting.

All affected customers will receive advance notification. A number of handy tips are available on the Essential Energy website to help customers prepare for planned power outages.

To find out more visit: http://www.essentialenergy.com.au/outages

“We want to thank the community for their patience as we undertake this work and remind customers to contact Essential Energy on 13 20 80 if they have any questions about the planned outage,” Brendon said