Mark Oliver, Wales & West Utilities Director of Business Service said:
“We are the gas emergency and pipeline service that serves Wales and the south west of England and it is our responsibility to make sure homes and businesses continue to receive a safe and reliable of gas now and into the future.
“As part of this work, we carry out regular exercises to make sure that in the event of a gas supply emergency, we could work with large gas users to reduce their gas demand to keep the gas flowing to as many homes and businesses as possible. This is a process known as ‘load shedding’.
“The 2016 load shedding exercise is being carried out today (6 September). We are calling the 200 largest gas users in north Wales, south Wales and the south west of England respectively to check we have the correct contact details and they would know what to do to turn their gas supply off in an emergency.
“This is only an exercise – and there is no need for them to stop using gas.
“If you have any questions or concerns about this exercise, our Customer Service Team is ready to take your call if you have any questions about our work. You can contact them on free phone 0800 912 2999 or by enquiries@wwwutilities.co.uk. Alternatively, you can contact us on Twitter @WWUtilities or Facebook.com/WWUtilities.”