How long must a UK power cut last before Ofgem £95 compensation applies?

In normal weather conditions across Great Britain, an unplanned domestic power cut must last at least 12 consecutive hours to qualify for £95 automatic compensation, followed by £40 for every additional full 6-hour block.

Do I claim power cut compensation from my energy supplier or my DNO?

Payments come from your geographic Distribution Network Operator (DNO) such as UKPN, National Grid ED, SSEN, Northern Powergrid, ENWL or SP Energy Networks — often passed through via your retail supplier or paid directly by cheque/BACS.

Ofgem Guaranteed Standards

Ofgem Power Cut Compensation Calculator (£ GBP)

Calculate your statutory Great Britain DNO power cut payout under Ofgem Guaranteed Standards (£95 initial + £40 per extra 6 hours, Category 1/2 storms).

Total Hours Without Electricity

DNO / Ofgem Weather Classification

Premises Type

Missed Planned Shutdown Notice (< 2 days)?

Estimated Statutory Payout

£135

£95 initial (12h) + £40 (1 extra 6h block)

Draft DNO Claim Letter →

Ofgem Guaranteed Standards Summary (Great Britain)

Normal Weather Unplanned Cut: £95 domestic (£180 non-domestic) at 12 hours, then £40 for each additional 6-hour period.
Severe Storm Events: Category 1 triggers at 24h (£85 initial + £40 per 6h); Category 2 triggers at 48h (£85 initial + £40 per 6h), subject to statutory storm caps (£2,000 standard ceiling).
Planned Work Without 2 Clear Days Notice: £40 domestic / £80 commercial if your DNO disconnected cables for planned upgrades without giving proper notice.
How to Identify Your DNO: Check our Who Is My DNO? lookup using your outward postcode or MPAN prefix.