This article is 20 years old. Images might not display.
A cable fault has been blamed for the problems in the CBD although EnergyAustrlia admitted in a statement to some problems in pinpointing the source around Margaret, York and Clarence streets.
In an unrelated incident another unexplained interruption hit the Lower North Shore as EnergyAustralia was preparing to undertake essential repair work. The exact cause of the interruption was being investigated but might have been related to a switching operation.
The NSW opposition seized on the problems, slamming the government’s decision to take millions of dollars in dividends instead of reinvesting the money into maintenance.
"For some residents and businesses this is their third blackout in as many weeks," said energy and utilities spokesman Brad Hazzard.
"Premier Bob Carr is fast becoming known as 'Blackout Bob' because of his policy of sucking energy companies dry of funds needed for maintenance and renewals.