Understanding the route of your electricity supply — from the street to your consumer unit — helps you identify who is responsible for what in the event of a problem. The supply chain involves the Distribution Network Operator (DNO), your electricity supplier, and your own installation, and the responsibilities of each are distinct.
The DNO (National Grid Electricity Distribution in the Midlands) owns and maintains the electricity network up to and including the service fuse — the sealed fuse in a small fuse carrier, typically at the bottom of the meter cupboard. This fuse is generally rated at 60A or 100A for a domestic property. Only the DNO may remove or replace this fuse; it is sealed for this reason. If you suspect a problem with the service fuse or the cables leading to it, contact the DNO, not your electricity supplier.
The electricity meter records your energy consumption. It is the boundary between the network operator and your electricity supplier. Above the meter, the wiring (tails) runs to the consumer unit in 25mm² cable, sufficient for the full rated supply. The tails belong to the homeowner but are connected to the meter by the electricity supplier; work on them requires the meter to be isolated by the supplier.
Your consumer unit is where your own installation begins. The main switch allows you to isolate your entire installation without affecting the supply to the meter or service fuse. Understanding this hierarchy — DNO service fuse → meter → consumer unit → circuits — helps you identify the right organisation to call when something goes wrong. DP Power Solutions is happy to advise on any aspect of your electricity supply.
About DP Power Solutions: We are qualified domestic electricians based in Staffordshire, providing EICRs, consumer unit upgrades, rewires, EV charger installation, and more across Cannock, Rugeley, Lichfield, Stafford, and the surrounding area.