EDF has to deliver a secure energy supply in Carshalton and Wallington - Brake

5.35.02pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 19th Apr 2006

After numerous power cuts in Carshalton, local MP Tom Brake has contacted Vincent de Rivaz, the Chief Executive of energy supplier EDF Energy, demanding a guarantee that there will be no more inconvenient and potentially dangerous breaks in supply.

Since Christmas two of Mr Brake's, constituents experienced six power cuts lasting from 90 minutes to five hours. Due to network problems one couple even had three power cuts during one week in February. Another constituent was left with no heating at all during these incidents: The 79-year-old woman suffers from osteoarthritis and was dependent on electrical heating.

According to an EDF Energy spokesperson the problems are due to a fuse blowing at peak times. An engineer reinforced the network in February.

Mr Brake said,

"EDF Energy has to guarantee a stable and reliable electricity supply for its customers. Power cuts cause inconvenience, especially during the winter months. I hope that EDF can reassure residents that they have solved the problem permanently, so that there won't occur any further power cuts."

Mr Brake is due to raise these concerns directly with EDF Energy Chief Executive Vincent de Rivaz in a future meeting.