No power

Everyone uses many appliances that only run on electricity, like a refrigerator. Power can go down for long and short periods, for example, due to network overload, a cyber-attack or other disaster and even extreme weather.

Think ahead

• Check in your own household and surroundings what depends on electricity.
• Think in advance what the problems might be if the power cut lasts for a long time.
• Put together an emergency kit. For example drinking water, food with a long shelf life, a torch, a battery-powered radio and a charged power bank so you can charge your mobile phone.

Is there a power cut?

• Do not call 112, as it is not an acute emergency. However, you can call the national power failure number: 0800-9009.
• Do you still have Internet on your phone or tablet? Then check www.government.nl or the website of your municipality or security region for up-to-date information.
• Listen to your regional broadcaster on your battery-powered radio or use the car radio. Check the list of all radio stations here.
• Unplug power sockets. This will prevent damage to appliances the moment the power comes back on.
• Is it cold? Keep windows and doors closed to keep the warmth inside and heat and occupy especially the smallest spaces in your home.
• Drop in on people who might need help. See if you can help with practical items or a power bank to charge a phone.

Government actions

• All European grid operators (in the Netherlands this is TenneT) have jointly drawn up rules to ensure the reliability of the electricity supply.
• In case of prolonged power cuts, emergency provisions are made by the government.
• There is a National Electricity Crisis Plan (information in Dutch only) so that government parties and companies know what to do if there is a major power failure.