Civilian Survival
Handbook
Power cuts by area

Power cut in Scotland: who to call and where to check

In short: Scotland has two electricity network operators. The north of Scotland is covered by SSEN (Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks); central and southern Scotland by SP Energy Networks. Wherever you are, call 105 free, day or night, to report a power cut and you'll be put through to the right one.

Key facts

  • SSEN covers two regions: the north of Scotland and central southern England. Source
  • Call SSEN on 105 to report a power cut or damage to its equipment; lines are open 24/7. Source
  • SP Energy Networks keeps electricity flowing to homes and businesses in central and southern Scotland, North Wales, Merseyside, Cheshire and north Shropshire, through SP Distribution and SP Manweb. Source

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If your power has gone off anywhere in Scotland, this page tells you who fixes it and where to check. We're an independent guide: we can't see live faults, and nothing here is live data.

Quick answers

North of Scotland Central and southern Scotland
Network operator SSEN SP Energy Networks
Report a power cut Call 105 — free, 24/7 Call 105 — free, 24/7
Live map SSEN Power Track SP Energy Networks power cuts
Priority Services Register Free — call 0800 294 3259 Free — see thepsr.co.uk

Which operator covers me?

SSEN runs the network in the north of Scotland, and SP Energy Networks covers central and southern Scotland, including Edinburgh and Glasgow. The border between them doesn't follow council areas exactly, so if you're not sure, call 105 and you'll be put through to the right company. The free plan builder also finds your operator from your postcode.

What to do now

  1. Check whether neighbours have power. If they do, look at your fuse box or trip switch.
  2. If not, call 105 or check your operator's live map.
  3. Use a torch, not candles. Turn off irons, ovens and heaters, and unplug the TV and computer.
  4. Keep fridge and freezer doors shut, and check on neighbours who may need help.

For winter, see our winter power cut checklist and Ready Scotland, the Scottish Government's preparedness site.

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Frequently asked questions

Who do I call about a power cut in Scotland?

Call 105, free, 24 hours a day. It puts you through to your network operator: SSEN in the north of Scotland, or SP Energy Networks in central and southern Scotland.

Is there a power cut in Scotland today?

We can't see live faults. Check SSEN's Power Track map or SP Energy Networks' power cut map, or call 105.

Can I get compensation for a power cut in Scotland?

Yes. Ofgem's standards apply across Great Britain, and most payments for long power cuts are automatic. See our power cut compensation guide for the amounts.

Sources

  1. SSEN — Power cuts and emergencies
  2. SSEN — Preparing for a power cut
  3. SSEN — What to do during a power cut
  4. SSEN — Priority Services
  5. Ofgem — List of all electricity licensees (30 September 2026)
  6. Ofgem — Check if you can get a payment for a power cut
  7. Ofgem — Compensation for energy supply issues
  8. Be Ready (GOV.UK) — Power cuts
  9. SP Energy Networks — Digitalisation Strategy (hosted by Ofgem)
  10. Be Ready (GOV.UK) — Power cuts
  11. Ofgem — Check if you can get a payment for a power cut
  12. Ofgem — Guaranteed Standards of Performance payment update 2026
  13. The Priority Services Register (thepsr.co.uk)
  14. Met Office — What to do in a power cut

Related guides

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