Who is your Distribution Network Operator (DNO)?

If you are a business owner, you have probably heard the term DNO before. But what does it mean? DNO stands for Distribution Network Operator, and they look after the electricity that is delivered to your properties.


This means that if you have any issues with your electricity or the power coming into your building, you would usually contact your DNO. For example, if you have a power cut or need a new connection adding to your site, they would be the ones to help resolve this.

How to contact your DNO?

It’s important to know that there are several Distribution Network Operators in Great Britain, each responsible for supplying electricity to homes and businesses around the country. There are six main DNOs that ensure electricity is safely delivered to buildings, and each one covers a different region of the UK. This means you cannot contact just any DNO, it must be the one that operates in your area. For example, if you live in Liverpool and experience a power cut, you would contact SP Energy Networks.

Who are the main DNOs in Great Britain?

In Great Britain, there are six main Distribution Network Operators that cover all 14 regions.


  • Scottish & Southern Electricity Networks
  • SP Energy Networks 
  • SP Electricity North West 
  • Northern Powergrid
  • Western Power Distribution 
  • UK Power Networks


DNOs are licensed companies responsible for looking after the electricity network in your local area. They make sure electricity reaches your property safely. Their work includes maintaining underground cables, transformers, and all the equipment that keeps power flowing to buildings.

What is a DNO?

A DNO owns and operates the local electricity network, which is why it is important to know who your DNO is. Like all parts of the energy sector, DNOs are strictly regulated by Ofgem.


There are also IDNOs, or Independent Distribution Network Operators. These companies introduce more competition and allow for additional network ownership. They are also just as reliable as the main DNOs, holding full licences issued by Ofgem. IDNOs usually manage newer electricity networks, such as those for new housing estates or commercial developments, rather than the existing networks operated by the six main DNOs.

How do DNOs help businesses?

Examples of when you would contact your DNO Description
Electricity Delivery They make sure that electricity is safely delivered to your homes and businesses.
New electricity connections or upgrades They can help set up new connections or upgrade existing supply capacity.
Network maintenance and fault repairs They maintain the electricity network and repair faults affecting your supply.
Support for low-carbon technology installations They can support the installation of EV chargers or other electrical upgrades you need for your buildings.
Network safety management They manage the network to ensure electricity is delivered safely.

To find out who your DNO is, you can simply call 105 or enter your postcode here.


Unless you are experiencing issues or require alterations to your electricity connection, you may never need to speak with your DNO. Your energy supplier will handle more common issues such as issue with your meter, billing or payment queries.


Your DNO (Distribution Network Operator) owns the network that delivers electricity to your property. By understanding the different roles of your supplier and your DNO, you can save time when an issue does occur, because you’ll know who to contact and get problems resolved quicker.


If you are a Purely Energy customer, you can contact us and we will get in touch with the correct people on your behalf.

Would you contact your DNO for gas-related issues too?

No, if you are experiencing gas-related issues, you would get in touch with your Gas Distribution Network Operator (GDNO). There are a total of four companies that manage the gas distribution networks across Great Britain. These are: 


  • Cadent 
  • Northern Gas Networks (NGN)
  • Wales & West Utilities 
  • SGN (Scotia Gas Networks)

When would you contact your Gas Distribution Network Operator (GDNO or GDN)?

When you would contact your GDN When you would contact your Gas Supplier
If you are suspecting a gas leak or start smelling gas. If you have any questions about your bills or payment.
If you have no gas supply. If you need to set up a new account.
If you suspect carbon monoxide in your property. If you have any general complaints.
If you potentially hit a gas pipe whilst digging.
If you need a new gas connection.

How can we help?

If you are a Purely customer, get in touch and we will resolve any electricity or gas-related issues you may be having on your site. Or if you're looking and would like help lowering your energy bills, simply fill in the box below for a quick quote, or contact us directly.


Contact us on 0161 521 3400 or email us at info@purelyenergy.co.uk 


Written by Faith Labong at Purely Energy.