After the Demand Flexibility Service was first rolled to domestic customers out last winter, you can once again actually get paid for using less energy at home. It's all thanks to the National Grid's "Demand Flexibility Service" (DFS) to help mange demand for electricity at peak times through a 12 week period this winter and some of the biggest energy suppliers are on board.
The DFS, which started on October 30 and goes through the winter, is a program where households that cut back on electricity during specific times can earn money. Sounds good, right? But there is a catch: you need a smart meter to join in.
Last winter, around 1.6 million homes earned nearly £11 million through DFS.
Here's the lowdown on who’s taking part and how they are operating the scheme:
Octopus Energy:They're running the "Saving Sessions" scheme. It's for almost 3 million smart meter customers. You'll earn "Octopoints" by reducing energy use when needed.
OVO: They've got the "Power Move Plus" plan. You can earn up to £100 for shifting your energy use away from busy times.
British Gas: They're calling it "PeakSave." You need to be a British Gas customer with a smart meter. The goal is to use less energy, and you'll get paid for it.
Loop: They've got the "Turn Down and Save" scheme, which pays you £2.50 for every kilowatt-hour (kWh) you save when you use less energy during certain times.
Utilita: They're offering "Power Payback" to Pay As You Go customers. More info is coming soon.
EDF: They're doing it too, with "Beat the peak events." You can earn up to £3 for every kWh you save.
E.On Are taking part as is Scottish Power, but have also yet to release their plans.
If you have a smart meter, it might be time to sign up and start earning by using less energy this winter. Check with you energy supplier on what you need to do to take part and detail on how you will be notified of the periods the Demand Flexibility Service is in action and you could be paid to save electricit.
Then select "Add to Home Screen"
