An overnight power outage is planned this weekend across Merriwa and Baerami, as Ausgrid crews undertake essential repairs to infrastructure damaged by copper theft.
The Upper Hunter outage will take place between 10pm on Saturday 15th June to 3am on Sunday 16th June, with the critical work scheduled overnight to reduce the impact on households.
Ausgrid Upper Hunter Field Manager Adam Regan said, while an outage can be inconvenient, safety is the top priority.
“We have seen hundreds of copper thefts in the region over the last 12 months and these not only disrupt power but are a serious threat to public safety,” Mr Regan said.
“Each time, perpetrators not only put their own lives at risk but endanger people in the community by leaving powerlines exposed.”
Ausgrid recently began construction on the Merriwa Microgrid, which is designed to increase the reliability and resilience of the network and the community.
Continued vandalism and copper theft could further delay the project, and also result in injury or death.
“Contact with powerlines can kill you,” Mr Regan said.
“If you see disconnected wiring, cut cables or fallen power lines always assume they are live, stay at least eight metres back and call Ausgrid on 13 13 88 so our emergency crews will respond immediately.”
Ausgrid has reported all known copper theft incidents to the police. Anyone who may have any information about theft or vandalism is urged to contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.
(Story Supplied)
