Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks Distribution (SSEN) has begun delivering the first of 20,000 free home battery packs to Priority Services customers who rely on powered medical equipment at home.
The industry-first scheme is designed to give medically dependent customers added peace of mind during power cuts, allowing them to power certain essential devices for a period of time.
The batteries can be used, subject to manufacturer guidance, to help run medical equipment. They can also provide power for lighting and heating appliances, charge phones and laptops, and operate broadband routers so customers can stay in touch with carers, family and friends.
Around 1.2 million SSEN Distribution customers are signed up to Priority Services. Eligibility for a battery is assessed based on a customer’s needs and local power cut data, and those eligible are contacted directly. Since the scheme launched at the beginning of February, 94% of those offered a battery have accepted.
The roll-out follows a 6 month trial involving 28 customers who rely on powered medical equipment. Feedback led to improvements, including a one third increase in battery capacity.
Eliane Algaard, Services Director at SSEN Distribution, has said:
“We’re proud to be able to deliver this first-of-a-kind benefit for our customers, to provide additional support for those most in need.
Article continues below this advertisement “Following this successful trial, this is a huge moment as units are sent out to the first of many thousands of customers who will benefit from them the most.”
The EcoFlow Delta 3 batteries have a 1,024Wh capacity and include USB-A, USB-C and three pin sockets. In a medical emergency, customers are advised to dial 999 or 111 for assistance.
