This year, we will be taking part in the ESO Demand Flexibility Service to help our customer's get the most out of their smart meters throughout the winter months.
But what is it, how does it work and can you take part?
What is the Demand Flexibility Service?
The Demand Flexibility Service or DFS for short was introduced by ESO last year. It is a voluntary service offered by energy suppliers in conjunction with smart meter installers to help better manage the demand for electricity during peak hours.
The events typically last for one hour between 16:00-19:00. During this time, those who are eligible and opt in will be asked to reduce their energy consumption during these hours.
For those wanting to participate, we will be in touch before each event so you know exactly when to reduce your usage.
The service is in place to reduce the high levels of demand during peak hours of the day. In return, consumers will be rewarded with a payment for the amount of energy they saved after each event. We will also be running a competition for the best 'super-savers' at the end of the service!
What do I need to take part in the service?
To take part, you will need the following things:
- A Smart Meter that can relay meter readings to us every 30 minutes
- The last four digits of your GUID number
- Requested to register your household via the email we send to you then opt-in through the emails sent before an event takes place.
You can find your GUID number on the Account Overview Page of your online account.
How can you participate in the service?
As this is our first involvement, we will only be giving some of our customers access to this service. To take part, we require consumers to have a smart meter installed which can send us half-hourly meter readings.
This is to ensure we can accurately measure your reduction and compensate you accordingly.
Your meter will also need to have supplied readings successfully for a minimum of 30 days prior to the events.
What are the benefits of taking part?
Not only will you reduce your energy usage which could mean lower bills, you will also be rewarded for doing so! After each event, your credit will be added to your energy account.
After every event, the top five Super Savers will be added into a draw to win a very special prize once the service ends.
Whilst doing so, you will also be supporting ESO by reducing your energy usage at peak times.
What do I need to do for each event?
You will be notified before every scheduled event takes place. All you need to do is make sure you reduce your usage during the times stated in the email.
Each live event will only last for around one hour, usually between the times of 16:00-19:00.
How to save electricity during a DFS event?
It's not unknown that we all own power-hungry appliances. By not using appliances such as tumble driers, ovens and dishwashers during the events, you will be helping reduce the overall demand for electricity and earn rewards too!
You should look to use these appliances outside of the given window to ensure you get the best savings.
Why not look at our FAQs on vampire appliances to better understand what could be sapping electricity in your home?
Do you need to take part in the Demand Flexibility Service?
Not at all! If you need to use electricity during these time frames or just don't fancy it, you don't need to take part.
It is a voluntary service and only those who want to get involved need to, however, it is a great opportunity to get rewarded for being savvy with your energy usage!
I have signed up for the service with an energy monitoring app, can I take part with you too?
Unfortunately, this service can only be run by one supplier or utility company. That means if you have signed up with an energy app such as Hugo or Loop, you will not be able to opt-in with us too.
How long will the service run for?
The service will begin in November 2023, running until March 2024.
During this time, there will be 12 organised test events taking place with six this year and six in early 2024. There is also a chance for live events to take place which could help you save and earn even more! You will be notified of any events the day before or on the day, giving you time to plan for reducing your usage.
How much can you save if you take part?
How much you save will depend on how much you reduce your usage and how many events you take part in. If you participate in every event and significantly reduce your usage, a household could save as much as £100 over this winter.
Can you take part if you don't have a smart meter?
At the moment, this service is only for those who have a smart meter which can send half-hourly readings.
ESO are looking into ways to further expand the service to involve more UK consumers, however, this will not be available for the events taking place this winter.
How can you find out how much you have saved after an event?
You will be able to see the reduction in kWh. We will then calculate your rewards and email the amount to you within 30 days of the event.
We will also add the amounts you will be rewarded on your monthly energy statement. This will then be credited to your energy account within 30 days of the event.