In an effort to lower energy usage during peak times and prevent potential blackouts this winter, the National Grid will be running its "demand flexibility service" between 5pm and 6pm starting on Monday 23rd of January.
The National Grid Electricity System Operator (ESO) has announced that electricity supply margins are expected to be tighter than normal.
Participating households, who must have a smart meter and have signed up through their energy supplier, may be paid to turn off certain appliances during these off-peak hours. This may include turning off dishwashers or charging electric cars. Energy suppliers may have already contacted eligible customers to invite them to participate in the program.
This will be the first official use of the scheme by the National Grid to reduce pressure on the grid. The program will run 12 times from November through to March, and energy suppliers have the autonomy to establish their own criteria for participation and compensation for households.
The Electricity System Operator assures that this program does not mean that energy supplies are at risk, and there is no need for concern. An ESO spokesperson said: "Our forecasts show electricity supply margins are expected to be tighter than normal on Monday evening. We have instructed coal-fired power units to be available to increase electricity supplies should it be needed. We are also activating a Live Demand Flexibility Service event between 5-6pm."
So what exactly is the demand flexibility service:
The National Grid has created the demand flexibility service to promote the use of energy-intensive appliances during off-peak hours at night. The goal of the program is to decrease the country's energy consumption during peak times and prevent households from experiencing blackouts during the winter. The program will run 12 times between November and March, and energy suppliers have the autonomy to establish their own criteria for participation and compensation for households.
To participate, it is expected that homes will need to reduce their energy usage by a specific amount within certain timeframes, such as 9-11am and 4.30-6.30pm. If a customer reduces their energy usage by two kilowatt hours, they could potentially earn back £12. Those who have chosen to participate will receive notifications from their energy supplier via text or email of the program's operational hours.
Customers can inquire with their energy supplier to confirm if they are eligible to participate in the scheme and learn about the program's requirements. It's important to note that not all energy suppliers are participating in the scheme
