EDF Energy gives power-cut apology

Brooks Newmark today joined Councillor Graham Butland, Leader of Braintree District Council, in a meeting at the House of Commons with representatives from EDF Energy. Braintree MP Brooks Newmark today joined Councillor Graham Butland, Leader of Braintree District Council, in a meeting at the House of Commons with representatives from EDF Energy.

They demanded an explanation from the company for the frequent power cuts experienced by residents of Great Notley. Residents have experienced 5 power cuts since July last year, despite the investment of £2.5 million in a new electricity substation to serve the area.

Mr. Alan Feakin, Director of Customer Operations at EDF Energy, said "We want to deliver a really good service to the community but looking back, we haven't." But he also said that the company was, "very aware and very focussed on the areas where we are not delivering."

Brooks welcomed EDF's apology to local residents and an undertaking to improve services.

He said, "I am pleased with EDF's response to our concerns. They have admitted that problems have occurred and have promised extra investment to put things right. I particularly welcome the promise of £6 million over the next two years to upgrade power infrastructure in the Braintree area. It is very important that there is enough capacity in the system to guarantee a reliable supply to any new developments in our area, including the new community hospital."

EDF has already replaced all of the cable joints in the new electricity substation which caused two of the power-cuts in Great Notley and has promised to spend a further £25,000 on necessary works.

Cllr. Butland said, "I am delighted that they appear to be responding to the needs of local residents and that further investment is being made in the Great Notley area to safeguard supplies. I am also delighted that they have undertaken to give local residents written warning in advance of any further work which might cause disruption."

Brooks also welcomed the company's response to Cllr. Butland's suggestion that it should make a community donation in recognition of the disruption caused to residents. EDF has pledged to make a donation to the PARC play centre in Great Notley, which Brooks will be visiting on Saturday 3rd. July during National Volunteers' Week.