Areas without supply stretch from north of Wollongong to Ulladulla on the South Coast, however Integral Energy has placed priority on assisting Nowra and Ulladulla Hospitals to connect emergency generators.

Integral Energy’s Group General Manager Rod Howard said it would take up to 48 hours to restore power to all customers.

He said ongoing high winds, some gusting at gale force, were hampering efforts to reach repair sites.

‘‘We have received multiple reports of large trees bringing down power lines on major South Coast roads and blocking access tracks needed by our repair crews, furthering hampering estimated restoration times.

‘‘We’re working with the SES to prioritise repairs where trees have brought down power lines to make the areas safe for emergency workers and the public in order for roads to be reopened quickly.

‘‘We have opened storm centres at our major South Coast depots to coordinate restoration efforts, and have liaison staff working in SES emergency centres.’’

Mr Howard said a major transmission line which provides the backbone of electricity supply to the Shoalhaven, had sheets of metal roofing wrapped through it.

‘‘This is a dangerous repair job to undertake and we are working to assess the safest way to make the repairs.

‘‘Once this is complete, Country Energy will be able to safely restore electricity to 9000 customers south of Ulladulla.

‘‘Our crews’ ability to restore supply will depend largely on the gale force winds abating later in the day.’’

Customers can call 131 003 to advise of fallen power lines or other dangerous electrical situations.