Exmouth residents battered by Cyclone Narelle to receive double usual extended power outage payment

Exmouth residents who experienced power outages of more than 12 hours during Tropical Cyclone Narelle will now receive double the usual extended outage payment. It was one of a number of energy relief measures announced by the Cook Government to help with the response to Cyclone Narelle, which tore through the State’s north in March. Among the worst places hit was popular tourist town Exmouth, where 12 structures, including four homes, were destroyed and another 230 structures were damaged. Horizon Power customers in Exmouth who had their power cut off for more than 12 hours as a result of the cyclone will now be able to claim a $240 payment, up from the usual $120. For households which faced significant damage or had their home destroyed, Horizon Power will waive network connection and reconnection fees as well as fees for connection of temporary power supplies required during construction. The relief will be available until the end of March, 2027. Energy and Decarbonisation Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson said the relief would help families still picking up the pieces from the cyclone. “Horizon Power’s relief package will help Exmouth customers by reducing electricity‑related costs when many are already facing challenges during the post cyclone recovery period,” she said. “Horizon Power crews did an incredible job safely restoring power to thousands of customers in challenging conditions in the aftermath of ex-Tropical Cyclone Narelle. “This package backs that effort with practical cost relief so families and small businesses can recover.”