HOUSEHOLDS across the UK are trying to reduce energy use and save on bills.
But did you know money or credit is available simply by turning off appliances at certain times?
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This is how to reap extra benefits by powering down . . .
SIGN UP: The National Grid’s Demand Flexibility Service, which is running this winter, gives consumers the chance to get paid for using less electricity during nationally busy periods.
There are likely to be 12 sessions in total when the scheme will run over the colder months.
You must sign up through your energy supplier and need a smart meter to take part.
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Not every energy company offers the scheme but British Gas, EDF, E.ON, Octopus Energy, Ovo Energy and Scottish Power are among those that do.
HOW TO TAKE PART: The National Grid tends to switch on the scheme during peak periods, such as in cold snaps.
Energy firms in turn contact customers. You will usually get a few hours’ notice of DFS sessions, so you can, for example, plan to use the washing machine or dishwasher ahead of time.
You will then need to opt in to each individual event.
Households do not have to completely stop all electricity use during the period, just cut down from your normal level to make savings.
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You can do this by switching off power-hungry appliances such as washing machines, tumble driers and power showers during the period.
Sessions can be as short as half an hour and up to four hours.
WHAT CAN YOU GET: The National Grid pays cash to suppliers for energy saved during the DFS sessions, which is then distributed to customers.
EDF estimates people can earn up to £100 over the winter. But the exact reward you get depends on your supplier, as some take a cut to cover costs.
Most suppliers translate the cash into bill credit.
British Gas is one of the firms passing on 100 per cent of savings to customers paid by the National Grid.
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