Electricity has been restored to thousands of homes without power for approximately 90 minutes, Belco has reported.

More than 5,000 customers were affected by a fault which forced power to shut down around 4.30 p.m.

Power was returned to everyone by 5.56 p.m.

A company spokesperson earlier reported the following: "Belco reports that due to two east power station engines tripping, the Operations Centre shed load on 17 circuits at approximately 4.30 p.m., affecting over 5,000 customers in both the east and west.”

The spokesperson continued: “Estimated restoration [is] one hour, but this estimate is subject to change. BELCO will continue to provide updates as restoration work continues.”