Top Energy says recent thefts from its substations show not just criminal intent, but astonishing recklessness.

Chief Executive Russell Shaw says he's shocked by the “absolute stupidity” of those who are not only putting their own lives at risk but also endangering the safety of Top Energy staff and the wider community.

Mr Shaw is referring to a recent break-in where thieves stole essential equipment from a substation, forcing a manual shutdown that caused a power outage to around 4500 customers.

“More seriously, they sabotaged the neutral-earth connection, leaving the high-voltage system without a proper earth reference.”

“This is extremely dangerous and created a high risk of electrocution or serious electric shock – not just for the thieves, but also for any staff working on the substation afterwards.

Sabotaging high-voltage infrastructure has far-reaching consequences. Mr Shaw warns that interference with electrical equipment can trigger widespread outages, affecting homes, businesses, and essential services. The maximum penalty for sabotage of essential infrastructure is 10 years compared to 7 years for theft.

In another break-in thieves also damaged generators which were made inoperable before a major storm. Back up generation is a major component of our storm response to supply power while the network is fixed.

Fortunately, the damage and thefts were discovered before the storm hit.

Mr Shaw says the company has strengthened security measures at its substations and has a strong message for any potential thieves.

“Don’t do it. You are jeopardising your life and those of others. It’s not worth it.”

Substations are high-voltage facilities that play a critical role in the electricity network, housing live equipment that can cause serious injury or death to anyone who enters without proper training and protective gear.

If anyone sees any suspicious activity near Top Energy’s substations or electricity infrastructure please call the police, or you can contact us on 0800 867 363.

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