National Grid to offer year-round payments for energy usage reduction
The National Grid's Electricity Systems Operator (ESO) has announced that the Demand Flexibility Service is set to run all year round from now on.
The energy-saving initiative that rewards you for reducing consumption during the colder months is set to make a comeback this year, and it's expanding to operate all year round.
The National Grid's Electricity Systems Operator (ESO) has confirmed the return of the much-lauded Demand Flexibility Service (DFS) scheme, which will now be available throughout the entire year. The ESO made an announcement on Tuesday stating that the service would no longer be limited to serving as a "winter contingency" measure.
Launched in 2022, the Demand Flexibility Service offers financial incentives to consumers who lower their electricity use during peak hours. The aim of the scheme is to alleviate stress on the power grid and avert possible power cuts.
Last winter saw a staggering 2.6 million participants sign up for the programme.
Additionally, the ESO disclosed that it is devising a "turn up" variant of the DFS, potentially compensating individuals for consuming surplus electricity produced by renewable sources like wind and solar farms during exceptionally windy or sunny conditions, reports the Mirror.
Kayte O'Neill, the Chief Operating Officer at the ESO, commented: "The Demand Flexibility Service has been a national first in empowering households and businesses to embrace energy flexibility and to be rewarded in the process. As we transition away from requiring DFS as a winter contingency service it is only right that we look to the future of what this service can deliver."
The ESO has yet to clarify the full impact on energy consumers, but they've committed to working closely with industry stakeholders to refine the reform. The statement revealed that consultations are set for the summer, with the final proposal heading to Ofgem's desk for approval, targeting implementation by this winter.
Katye remarked: "We look forward to working closely with industry over the coming months to deliver a service that makes flexibility part of everyday life and that can unlock the benefits for participating consumers and society at large."
To be eligible for the scheme, customers must be with an energy supplier that participates in the Demand Flexibility Service or offers a similar initiative. Additionally, having a smart meter is a prerequisite.
Earlier in the year, Grahame Case, who joined the scheme, told the Mirror he earned close to £300 by reducing his electricity consumption, which nearly offset his energy bills for December and January.
