An energy blackout is when the power goes off due to a failure of the electric grid or an overloaded electrical system.
A blackout is a total crash of the power grid due to an imbalance between power generation and power consumption.
A selective power cut is a controlled shutdown of the power supply in a given area, so as to avoid a blackout.
The major causes of a power outage, defined as lasting more than five minutes, include equipment failures at power generating stations, damage to substations and transmission lines, overloading of the system, and intentional power shutoffs.
Among the longest blackouts in history, the one in Auckland stands out. In 1998, parts of the downtown of this New Zealand city were without electricity for five weeks.
The power cut began on 19 February in the heart of the city.
What would happen if the whole world lost electricity?
There would be no power to use your fridge or freezer, telephone lines would be down and phone signal lost.
Your mobile phones will be useless as the battery dwindles, with no back up charging option.
Your gas central heating won't work and your water supply would soon stop pumping clean water.
You can do your part to help prevent blackouts by conserving energy.
Set thermostats to 78 degrees or higher.
Run energy intensive appliances during early morning or after 9 p.m.
Close drapes and blinds to keep rooms cool.