Blackout, brownout, power outage, rolling blackout: what each word means, how they differ, and what to do in each case in Canada.
- A blackout is a complete loss of power. A brownout is low voltage, not zero.
- A rolling blackout is a planned, rotating shutoff to reduce demand.
- In all cases the same basics apply: water, light, phone power, food and heat.
The news uses blackout, brownout and outage as if they mean the same thing. They do not. Here is what each one means.
Power outage
The general term for any loss of electric power. It can be local (one street) or wide (a region). Most outages in Canada are caused by weather, trees on lines or equipment failure.
Blackout
A complete loss of power across an area. The word is often used for large outages. It is the term in headlines such as "90 day blackout". See what that story actually reported.
Brownout
A drop in voltage. Lights dim and some devices misbehave, but power does not go out fully. It can be caused by heavy demand or a fault, and can damage some electronics.
Rolling blackout
A planned, rotating shutoff of different areas for short periods to reduce demand on the grid. You usually get notice from the utility.
What to do in each case
- Outage or blackout: use the 72 hour checklist.
- Brownout: unplug sensitive electronics and use surge protection.
- Rolling blackout: charge devices in advance and keep your fridge closed.
Learn how long outages tend to last on our outage length page.
Quick comparison
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Quick answers
What is the difference between a blackout and a brownout?
A blackout is a complete loss of power. A brownout is a drop in voltage where power stays on but is weak.
What is a rolling blackout?
A planned, rotating shutoff of different areas for short periods to reduce demand.
Is a power outage the same as a blackout?
Outage is the general term. Blackout usually means a complete and often large loss of power.