El Nino: ‘Perfect storm’ brewing for blackouts in summer heat

Extreme heat threatens not just health and bushfires, but there could be another danger too in the works.

A major energy price comparison site has warned millions could be in for a summer of blackouts, as extreme heat threatens the electricity grid.

According to price comparison website Compare the Market, NSW could experience blackouts even on the sunniest of days as the grid struggles to cope with demand.

The extra use of summer staples like airconditioning and pool pumps can put strain on the electricity market and there may not be enough supply to meet demand, the price comparison website said.

Generators may face heat-related stress on hot days, and sections of the electricity grid may be switched off to share supply around.

The electricity grid could struggle to cope with the summer heat, according to Compare the Market. Picture: Getty Images.

“With no one knowing just how high the mercury will rise in the coming months or what weather events we will face, now’s the time for households to take back the power and prepare a plan ahead of potential blackouts,” Compare the Market general manager Chris Ford told news.com.au.

According to Mr Ford, a “perfect storm” of factors puts extra demand on the grid during spring and summer.

“It’s hot, we’re blasting our air conditioners more, our pool pumps are keeping our pools clean, we’re entertaining the kids with more screen time and some of us are even using a spare fridge in summer — all this extra electricity usage puts strain on the electricity grid,” he explained.

“Those of us with solar systems should be maximising our electricity usage while the sun is shining, and doing our bit to reduce the solar feed-in to the grid during daylight hours when demand isn’t as high.”

During heatwaves in particular — with NSW already having experienced one scorcher — electricity generators work in overdrive to keep Aussies cool, Mr Ford added.

He urged every Australian household to have a blackout plan ready.

It’s important to make a blackout plan. Picture: Getty Images.

How to make a blackout plan this summer

• Inform your electricity retailer ASAP if you require life support equipment

If you or anyone in your household requires life support equipment, medical cooling devices or oxygen or dialysis machines, it’s vital that you let your retailer know as soon as possible.

This will ensure that your retailer has a backup plan to keep those devices switched on during an electricity shortage.

• Keep a physical list of essential contacts

Write down a list of important contacts, including your energy distributor, close contacts and state emergency services, in case your phone and other devices are out of action.

During a blackout, it’s your energy distributor, not your energy retailer, who should be your point of contact. Some states have multiple distributors, so be sure to find the correct one for your area.

• Prepare portable battery chargers, batteries and alternative lighting

Keep plenty of spare batteries on hand to power your radio, where authorities will broadcast important blackout updates. Also charge up any portable chargers so you can top up your phone’s battery, and have a pocket Wi-Fi modem on hand in case your internet goes down.

Keep a list of essential contacts and portable chargers on hand. Picture: Fabrice Coffrini / AFP

• Have bottled water and non-perishable food ready

In a blackout, it’s possible your fridge and freezer will stop working, which may spoil the food inside. You also may not be able to use your oven or microwave.

Mr Ford recommended having a barbecue and gas on hand to cook meats, as well as non-perishable snacks stored in case you get hungry.

Check your home insurance policy, as some cover food spoilage in the case of a blackout.

• Turn off appliances and devices at the wall if the power goes out

If you do find yourself in a blackout, be sure to unplug and turn off sensitive appliances like computers, TVs and gaming consoles.

Install safety switches on your electrical circuits, which can help to mitigate the risk of electric shock if the power goes out.

“Ideally, you want to be testing your safety switches at least once every quarter,” Mr Ford said.

“You can test these switches by pressing the test button at the switchboard, which will mimic any unsafe detections. The power should be cut at any power points connected to that circuit if the test is successful.”

If possible, have a solar system ready as a backup. Picture: Getty Images.

• Use a solar battery where you can

If you have a solar PV system and a solar battery, you may be able to store unused solar power in the case of a blackout.

There are a number of dependencies, such as having a battery with a backup function that can be used during blackouts. You’ll also need to make sure your home is configured to use the backup electricity across the whole household, rather than just specific circuits.

“Take note of how much electricity your solar battery can store and only turn on devices or appliances that you really need. There’s no knowing how long a power outage can last,” Mr Ford advised.

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