How the UK energy network works
Your energy supplier sends the bill, but a separate set of regulated companies actually delivers the gas and electricity to your meter. This is the map of who runs the wires, the pipes and the high-voltage backbone, and who to call when something goes wrong.
Start here
The four parts of the UK energy network
Pick the part of the network you need. Each hub lists the regional operators, the areas they cover and the right emergency contact.
DNOs and transmission
Electricity networks
The Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) that run the wires to your home, plus the high-voltage transmission system behind them. Find your DNO, check a power cut and learn who to call.
Explore electricity networksThe four GDNs
Gas networks
The Gas Distribution Networks (GDNs) that move gas through the pipes to your meter: Cadent, SGN, Northern Gas Networks and Wales and West Utilities. See which one covers your area.
Explore gas networksThe high-voltage backbone
National Grid and transmission
How the high-voltage transmission system carries power from generators to the regional networks, the role of National Grid and the National Energy System Operator (NESO).
Understand the transmission gridCall 105
Power cut help
What to do when the lights go out: confirm the outage, stay safe, keep food cold and report the fault. One free number for the whole of Great Britain, and a live area lookup.
Get power cut helpHow it really works
Network guides
In-depth, plain-English guides: transmission vs distribution, DUoS charges, connecting solar and EV chargers to the grid, and the free Priority Services Register.
Read the network guidesThe key distinction
Your supplier is not your network operator
Two different companies are involved in getting energy to your home. Knowing which is which tells you who to contact.
Your energy supplier
The company you chose and pay, such as Octopus, British Gas or EDF. They buy energy wholesale, set your tariff and send your bill. You can switch supplier whenever you like.
Contact them about billing, tariffs, switching, smart meters and account questions.
Your network operator
The regulated company that owns the wires (your DNO) or pipes (your GDN) in your area. You cannot choose it: it is fixed by where you live.
Contact them about power cuts, gas emergencies, new connections, fault repairs and priority services.
Free numbers to call in an emergency
These go straight to the people who run the network, not to your supplier. They are free and answered around the clock.
Power cut
105
Free from any phone in England, Scotland and Wales. Connects you to your local electricity network operator.
Smell gas
0800 111 999
The National Gas Emergency Service. Call if you suspect a gas leak, then open windows and avoid naked flames.