Ergon Urges Customers To Register

October 25, 2013

Regional Queenslanders using equipment for confirmed life-threatening medical conditions are urged to ensure they are registered with Ergon Energy’s Life Support program before the onset of the storm and cyclone season.

General Manager Service Delivery Northern Paul Ryan said the program was designed to assist customers – regardless of their retailer – who are dependent upon life support equipment which require continuous electricity supply.

“There are still genuinely ill people in our communities who are not registered with the program and I urge them to contact Ergon for more information,” he said.

Ergon currently has 2700 registered life support customers and the number is growing by an average of 14 a week. It is expected to increase over time because of the ageing population.

“Equipment such as home dialysis machines, ventilators and oxygen machines used by children through to older people with confirmed medical conditions, require continuous electricity supply,” Mr Ryan said.

“For registered customers, Ergon provides quick and easy access to information about power supply interruptions – planned and unplanned – via the 13-16-70 dedicated emergency number or from its website.

“And where possible, we contact and update them with an estimated restoration time when unplanned interruptions occur, enabling them to plan for alternative arrangements for emergency situations.

“We also provide information to assist them in developing a personal emergency plan as it is the customer’s responsibility to make necessary preparations for alternative arrangements if power is interrupted.”

Mr Ryan said Ergon Energy could not guarantee power supply because of factors beyond its control.

“We do everything possible to provide a reliable electricity supply, but sometimes unexpected technical issues or situations arise. For example, storms, strong winds, lightning, wildlife strikes, traffic accidents and even vandalism can disrupt the power supply,” he said.