A power outage in Dublin city centre may have cost businesses up to €1 million, according to an organisation representing businesses in the capital.

ESB said power had been fully restored to some 4,500 customers after a power outage this morning.

The ESB say it was caused by contractors who were doing civil works hitting underground cables at about 11.15am.

Businesses and homes from the Christchurch area, along the quays and up to Merrion Square were all affected.

Dublin City Council's civic offices at Wood Quay were among those without power.

Traffic lights were also out in some places.

Many businesses and homes were without power for about two hours, with many cafes, restaurants and shops without power during the busy lunchtime period.

Dublin Town, which represents businesses in Dublin, says the outage may have cost businesses up to €1m.

Dublin Chamber of Commerce said the incident shows the importance of security of supply.

The ESB has advised anyone who is planning to carry out works to make contact before undertaking the work.