Some people, known as medically dependent consumers (MDCs), rely on electricity to survive. This could be because a health practitioner has supplied or prescribed medical equipment which requires a constant supply of electricity.

If you, or someone who lives at your home, is a medically dependent consumer, you’ll need to let your electricity retailer know as soon as you can.

They might ask you for a letter from your doctor or hospital. You need to let your retailer know if this situation changes.

Learn more about the specific recommendations for how retailers should work with medically dependent consumers before a disconnection happens. 

You’ll need to let your new retailer know you are a medically dependent consumer.

Your health practitioner should have developed an emergency response plan with you. In the event of an electricity outage, you should follow your emergency response plan.


If you do not have an emergency response plan, consult with your health practitioner as soon as possible.