Department of Electrical Services Investigates Cause of Widespread Power Outages

Seri Begawan, Brunei — The main cause of a widespread electricity supply disruption remains under investigation, according to the Department of Electrical Services (DES). The outages, attributed to operational disruptions at several power stations, affected areas in the Brunei Muara, Tutong, and Belait Districts. In an interview with Radio Television Brunei, the Acting Permanent Secretary for Energy at the Department of Energy, Prime Minister’s Office, Pengiran Haji Jamra Weira bin Pengiran Haji Petra, stated that power has been restored in phases beginning at 2:20 p.m. on 17th October 2023.

He added that the DES has overcome several technical challenges and that power restoration will be carried out in phases and will take time. The department emphasizes adherence to the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) in line with Best Industry Practice to ensure the safety of on-duty officers and staff, along with the stability of the supply system. DES advises the public not to spread false information about the electrical infrastructure circulating on social media and apologizes for any inconvenience caused.

The Acting Director of the Department of Electrical Services, Awang Ahmad Ridza bin Dato Seri Setia Haji Abdul Rahman, urged the public not to panic and assured that the safety and well-being of the public remain a priority. He mentioned that the public can forward their complaints to Talian Darussalam 123 and stay updated on the electricity supply status through the department’s social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook.