What causes power outages, and will I be notified?

Power outages may be planned or unplanned. For safety reasons, there are occasions when Nelson Hydro must turn off the power intentionally in certain areas where construction, system upgrades, repairs and vegetation management are taking place. These outages are kept to a minimum and communicated in advance to minimize the impact on customers. Sign up for digital notifications here.

Unplanned power outages can happen for a variety of reasons, such as bad weather, motor vehicle accidents and even animals interfering with the equipment. Weather-related outages which include wind, snow and trees falling on lines are the most common sources of unplanned power outages in the Kootenays. Depending on the cause, some can be restored very quickly, while others can last a few hours or even a few days in the event of a major storm or emergency. 

To report a power outage or get the current outage status please call 1- 877-324-9376. This toll-free line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Show All Answers

1. Moving in, moving out: what do I do?
2. How much advance notice do I need to open, close or transfer an account?
3. New house construction or electrical service upgrade: where do I start?
4. How often am I billed, and how do I pay?
5. What causes power outages, and will I be notified?
6. What do I do if the power goes out?
7. What do I need to know about trees, branches, and power?
8. Electrical emergency and safety: what should I know?
9. I want to locate the buried wires and electrical cables on my property. What should I do?
10. What should I do if I damaged an electrical cable while I was working in my yard?