In the wake of the recent storms many households were left without power. Many will now be entitled to higher compensation payouts. Ofgem said it was would also be investigating both companies, SSE and UK Power Networks, for their slow response in reinstating electricity supplies throughout the recent extreme weather, of which almost one million homes across Britain suffered power cuts. Just over £10 million is now due to be paid out to customers cut off over the Christmas period. However only £2 million of that has been required under industry rules, with the extra £8 million the result of a voluntary gesture by SSE and UKPN after widespread uproar on long delays in restoring power.
Under current rules consumers cut off after storms that cause widespread damage and power cuts are only entitled to a £27 payout after being left without power for a full 48 hours. Furthermore they are entitled to £27 for each additional 12 hours they are cut off, up to a maximum of £216.