SA Power Networks is restoring power to customers along the River Murray on average in about two days after receiving notification their property is safe and ready for reconnection.

“We have restored power for 665 properties so far,” said Paul Roberts, Head of Corporate Affairs.

Mr Roberts said customers who are ready should request reconnection via their energy retailer.

“For a customer impacted along the River, SA Power Networks currently is averaging reconnection at around two days following receipt of a request from their retailer,” he said.

“Many properties sadly are beyond repair or will be unsafe and uninhabitable for some time and power reconnection will need to follow on from repairs and other building works.

“However, as the clean-up progresses, and more roads become accessible, additional resources are being deployed to River areas to assist local crews in tackling the reconnection work.”

Mr Roberts said waters on flood plains were continuing to recede. While major roads were opening up access to many areas remains a significant issue due to damage to local roads.

“Already, all the major backbone powerlines that were turned off due to unsafe clearances have had power restored and about two-thirds of the transformers that supply localised areas that were disconnected due to inundation are now able to supply power to customers. We will re-energise the remaining transformers as we get access.

“Where we can, we will restore electricity supply to the customer’s switchboard and leave instructions advising the property owner of whether they can turn on their power or whether they will need to arrange a licensed electrician to undertake checks and do corrective work before turning on their main switch.

Mr Roberts reminded property owners to take every precaution in visiting their properties and to contact their electricity retailer to raise a reconnection service request.