Gold Coast residents are no strangers to power outages caused by intense storms and heatwaves or an aging power grid. Even brief power outages can quickly escalate if unprepared. But don’t fret. Our experts are on hand to help! Take proactive measures today so you and your family can rest easier during a future power outage on the Gold Coast!
Understanding Power Outages on Gold Coast
Power outages are sudden interruptions to electricity that disrupt our daily lives, from localized blackouts to widespread events. By understanding which outage types may occur and their potential repercussions, we can all work to reduce risk as early as possible.
What is a power outage?
A power outage, also known as a blackout, occurs when there is an unexpected disruption of electricity service in one area caused by an interruption to its distribution system. Outages may range from minor interruptions to extensive breakdowns that disrupt homes, businesses, and public services. Extended outages have the power to have devastating repercussions for entire communities and economies. An evening blackout can create serious disruptions and compromise visibility and safety. Without lighting, activities can become dangerous. But with proper preparations in place, there are ways to ensure everyone in your household remains safe and sound.
Type of power outage
- Blackout: A blackout is a complete power outage in a specific area and can affect a large area and a large population. This is the most serious power outage and is usually caused by extreme weather, grid failure, or damaged infrastructure. The outage can last from a few hours to several weeks and is difficult to repair, but the good news is that it can be avoided!
- Brownout: A brownout is when the voltage supply drops, which is a great way to save energy! This causes lights to dim and appliances to perform less efficiently, but it’s still better than a blackout! While not as extreme as a blackout, brownouts can still cause some appliances (such as ovens and refrigerators) to malfunction. Brownouts are caused by high demand on the grid or by a deliberate reduction in voltage to prevent a larger blackout.
- Permanent Fault: A permanent fault is a sudden loss of power due to a problem with the power supply system (such as damage to power lines). But don’t worry, these are usually fixed in no time! Once the fault has been identified and fixed, power is automatically restored. Unlike blackouts and brownouts, these power failures only affect local areas and do not require extensive restoration work.
- Rolling Blackouts: These are actually a planned temporary power outage measure that is implemented in different areas at predetermined times to prevent the power grid from being overloaded. This is a great way to keep the power on in areas where the power infrastructure might be a bit unstable or where there’s not enough power being generated. And when demand exceeds supply, rolling blackouts are the solution! Rolling blackouts are a preventative measure, designed to avoid large-scale power outages and ensure the overall stability of the power grid.
Common Causes of Power Outages on the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is a vibrant and exciting place, but power outages can sometimes happen. Here are some of the most common reasons for Gold Coast power outages:
- Tropical Cyclones: These intense storms bring strong winds and heavy rainfall, which can potentially damage power lines and substations.
- Lightning Strikes: Lightning can hit power lines or equipment, causing immediate power failures.
- Flooding: Heavy rainfall can lead to flooding, which may damage underground cables and substations, resulting in outages.
- Falling tree branches: Strong winds can cause tree branches to fall onto power lines, leading to power disruptions.
- Lack of Maintenance: Inadequate tree trimming near power lines due to vegetation interference increases the risk of outages.
- Transformer Failures: Over time, transformers can age and malfunction, leading to power supply interruptions.
- Circuit Breaker Failures: Faulty circuit breakers can cause localized outages in the distribution network.
- Excavation Activities: Accidental contact with underground power lines during digging can cause outages and pose safety hazards.
- Animal Activities: Let’s not forget the playful squirrels and birds! Wildlife such as squirrels, birds, and rodents can disrupt electrical equipment!
How to report a power outage on the Gold Coast?
If you see a power outage on the Gold Coast, you can get in touch with the amazing people at Energex! Just call 13 62 62 to report supply issues or 13 19 62 for emergencies such as fallen power lines. And for the latest updates, be sure to check out the Energex website—the Outage Finder is the perfect tool for staying in the know!
How to find power outages in your area?
Energex has an amazing interactive outage map that shows you all the current unplanned outages and planned maintenance across Southeast Queensland, including the Gold Coast.
How to prepare for electricity outages on the Gold Coast?
Whether it’s a short disruption or a prolonged blackout, being well-prepared ensures safety, minimizes inconvenience, and helps maintain essential functions. So, let’s look at some awesome strategies for short-term and long-term preparation!
Short-term preparation
- Keep flashlights, batteries, and emergency supplies readily available.
- Make sure you have plenty of water, non-perishable food, and a first-aid kit.
- Keep your phones and power banks charged and ready to go!
- And don’t forget some cash on hand, ideally in small denominations.
Long-term preparation
- Consider investing in a solar-compatible backup power system like the EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Portable Power Station.
- Make sure you use surge protectors to safeguard all your home appliances.
- For those seeking true independence, consider off-grid solutions like solar panels and battery storage to keep the power on during those outages.
- Make sure you’ve got a long-term supply of all those essential items!
- Stay updated on weather forecasts and power grid status to stay safe and well.
- Test your emergency lighting and replace any expired items in your kit.
Conclusion
The Gold Coast is a vibrant and energetic place, and as such, power outages are just part and parcel of life here. While they can disrupt our lives, they don’t have to! But don’t worry! when you follow our awesome guide to prepare for power outages, you can make sure they don’t turn into a nightmare. By preparing now, you can protect your home and family from unexpected power outages on the Gold Coast. So, let’s stay safe and prepared!
FAQs
How long do power outages typically last on the Gold Coast?
The great news is that power outages duration on the Gold Coast are usually sorted in just 2 to 3 hours! But we all know that during some pretty epic weather events like Tropical Cyclone Alfred, things can get a little hairy.
Can solar panels work during a blackout?
If your solar system is grid-tied only (without a battery), it will automatically shut down during a power outage and won’t provide electricity. But if you have a battery storage system with backup power functionality, your solar panels can keep going, even during outages. Additionally, off-grid systems are not affected by grid outages and can provide continuous electricity. It’s a good idea to take home off grid.
Are emergency generators safe for indoor use?
No, emergency generators for house should never be used indoors because they produce CO, a colorless, odorless gas that can cause poisoning or even death. If you need an indoor backup power source, consider a battery storage system or a solar generator, which are safer and emission-free.