Power companies are being forced to pay compensation to Victorians affected by last month's blackouts, with payments up to $180 depending on how long a household went without electricity.



As part of the $5 million package, announced on Sunday, around 50,000 households who lost power on January 28 will receive a one-off payments.



More than 90,000 households went without electricity at the peak of the heatwave.



Energy Minister Lily D'Ambrosio said $180 would be given to those without power for between 20 and 30 hours, while those affected for between three and 20 hours would receive $80.

About 40,000 more customers are set to receive payments than required under regulatory obligations.

"We know how frustrating this was for many Victorians – affected customers deserve to be compensated for the inconvenience," Ms D'Ambrosio said in a statement. "We've worked with the private power distribution companies to deliver this for thousands of customers affected by this extreme weather event."

The Opposition said the fact the government was congratulating itself for giving refunds of $80 was an insult to people who had endured 20-hour blackouts.