Load shedding

What is load shedding?

Load shedding is a measure used to balance electricity supply and demand in a power system. It is a controlled way of shutting off power to certain areas of the grid for a specific amount of time. This helps reduce demand to keep the power system stable and reduce the risk of wider system failure.

In the Northern Territory, NTESMO (Northern Territory Electricity System and Market Operator) decides when load shedding is required to protect the power system.

Why is it used?

Electricity supply and demand need to match to ensure the power system is balanced. If demand is higher than supply, this causes an imbalance in the system that can result in widespread outages or damage equipment.

How does it stabilise the grid?

Planned load shedding:

  • brings demand back in line with what generators can produce
  • helps keep the power grid’s balance within safe limits
  • prevents the problem developing into a larger system failure.

How is it done?

Load shedding is done by manually switching feeders and usually happens in stages and blocks (often called ‘rotational’ load shedding):

  • Areas (connected to chosen feeders) are selected to remove the required load as quickly as possible, depending on the supply and demand balance at the time.
  • Power to the selected areas is switched off for a pre-determined amount of time (usually between 30 to 60 minutes). As one area is switched back on, another area is switched off. This keeps demand (and therefore the power system) stable and minimises disruption.
  • Power is restored to all areas when supply recovers, demand falls, or extra generation comes online.

How many people will be turned off at a time?

The schedule for load shedding would vary depending on the supply and demand at the time.

When might I see it?

Load shedding can happen when:

  • there are extreme temperatures (resulting in high air-conditioner or heating use, which increases demand for power)
  • there are generator outages
  • there are transmission faults
  • there is not enough energy source (such as gas) to meet generation requirements.

How will I find out if I am going to be affected?

In the unlikely event planned load shedding was required, we would communicate the schedule with customers via a range of channels, including:

What if I am a Life-Support customer?

If you or someone in your household relies on life support equipment or is medically dependent on a continuous power supply, it is very important that we know.

  • Make sure you are registered with your electricity retailer or with Power and Water as a life support customer.
  • Have a personal emergency plan in place with your health professional in case of any power interruption, including load shedding.
  • If there is an immediate risk to life, always call 000.

You can find more information on our Life support customers page.