𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗮 𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗠𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗿

Energy providers are searching for ways to reduce electricity consumption at peak times. This is because the least efficient (expensive) power stations need to be commissioned at around 5 pm or 6 pm. If many people reduce consumption, the ‘generation gap’ can be bridged affordably. Otherwise, higher charges need to be absorbed or passed on to consumers.

A better way around this is to use the more frequent meter readings that a smart meter can provide. Some providers invite customers to reduce consumption over a specific one-hour period. In return, credit is made for every unit saved. (A unit is 1,000 Watts used for an hour). 

Our provider offers £2.25 per unit saved. It’s a bit of fun having an early hot drink and charging up the laptop so we can ‘freewheel’ until the time is up.

The financial incentive is provided by the National Grid and administered by energy providers.