• UK households will be paid to reduce electricity use year-round under the expanded “Demand Flexibility Service.”
  • The scheme helps balance energy demand as the UK increases reliance on wind and solar power.
  • Last winter, 2.6 million homes participated, saving 3.7 gigawatt-hours of electricity.

The expanded program will help manage energy demand as reliance in UK homes

British households will soon be able to earn money by cutting back on electricity usage. The National Energy System Operator (NESO) has announced plans to expand its “Demand Flexibility Service” throughout the year. 

The program began in 2022 to prevent blackouts during the winter months. Now, it’s helping to manage the UK’s growing reliance on renewable energy.

Under the scheme, households and businesses will receive payments for reducing electricity use during periods of high demand. This helps balance supply and demand on the grid, especially as more power comes from wind and solar. These energy sources can be less predictable, so reducing usage during peak times can help keep the system stable.

The program is part of a larger effort to shift the way people use electricity

Last winter, 2.6 million households participated in the scheme, saving 3.7 gigawatt-hours of electricity. NESO is now looking to offer this all year round. 

Though challenges remain in the journey to net zero households, programs like this are helping the country achieve its goals. Through incentives and support, we can encourage more households to adopt greener lifestyles.