WIREDGOV

In these freezing temperatures we recognise this is an extremely difficult situation for the 340 consumers in Sheffield who have now been without gas supply for a week (as of 0900 on 10 December). We are in constant and close contact with Cadent, Northern Powergrid and Yorkshire Water to ensure that all consumers’ needs are being met, particularly those who may be vulnerable.

While we are grateful to engineers from Cadent and all of the other organisations who are working around the clock to restore supplies as soon as possible, we are extremely concerned that 194 consumers on the Priority Services Register remain off gas (as of 0900 on 10 December), along with hundreds of other homes. We have received assurances from Cadent that each of these customers is being cared for and made comfortable while they wait for their supply to be restored.  

While the vast majority of customers should be back on supply over the weekend, it is possible that there will continue to be smaller scale, shorter duration disruptions to supplies as Cadent engineers fully remove all of the water from the gas pipes.  

Cadent has confirmed that all homes that have been without gas will receive compensation at £130 per day (double the statutory rate), and for seven days as a minimum. Commercial properties will receive £210 per day. Compensation will be paid automatically and residents affected will not need to make a claim. We expect that compensation will be paid to affected customers promptly next week and will follow the process closely to ensure successful delivery.

Separately, Yorkshire Water has confirmed it will handle compensation claims for water damage and additional costs incurred. Affected consumers should fill out the form on Yorkshire Water’s website or for anyone who doesn’t have access to the internet, a dedicated phoneline is available on 01274 250555.

Ofgem staff have visited affected areas in Sheffield to independently assess the situation, monitor the network response and speak to consumers about their experience directly.

Affected consumers needing support can visit a customer centre located at The Lomas Hall, Church Street, Stannington, S6 6DB, call a support phone and information number on 0800 917 9598 or visit Cadent’s dedicated webpage.