HC Deb 27 January 2003 vol 398 c595W
Mr. Wiggin

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions she has had with energy regulators to ensure energy companies receive lists of vulnerable people who are a priority for reconnection in the event of a power cut. [93319]

Mr. Wilson

Ministers and officials meet the Energy Regulator regularly and discuss a wide range of issues.

The licence for Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) require them to maintain a register of customers who have special communication needs or depend on electricity for medical reasons, and who require advance notice of planned interruptions to supply. This ensures that the DNOs are aware of vulnerable customers, and can prioritise accordingly. The DNOs are also required to give advice via a code of practice (provision of services for persons who are of pensionable age or disabled or chronically sick).