Arabic version: خطة جديدة تقدم كهرباء مجانية لاستخدام الأجهزة في عطلات نهاية الأسبوع

Households and businesses could get free or cheaper electricity from their energy company for running appliances during periods of excess supply, such as sunny weekends, according to BBC News. This initiative, introduced by the National Energy System Operator (NESO), aims to encourage energy consumption during times of excess supply, particularly when solar power generation is high.

Until now, providers have offered incentives for customers in Britain to shift their electricity use outside of peak times. However, the updated Demand Flexibility Service, approved by Ofgem at the end of March, allows for increased usage during periods of surplus electricity. This strategy is expected to enhance system resilience over the summer months while preventing waste of excess power.

The NESO’s research highlights that summer electricity demand is often lower due to warmer weather and longer days, coinciding with higher solar energy production. In 2025, Britain experienced its sunniest year on record, contributing to a significant rise in renewable energy generation, particularly from solar sources.

The updated scheme will enable customers with smart meters to be rewarded for running appliances like washing machines and electric vehicles during times of high renewable energy generation. Energy companies will determine how to pass on the financial incentives to consumers, which could include free or discounted electricity or points redeemable for gift cards.

Participating companies include British Gas, Equiwatt, and Octopus Energy. NESO anticipates that managing low demand will become increasingly complex, potentially requiring more frequent adjustments to energy generation levels. Despite the growth in renewable energy, the British electricity grid still relies on gas-fired power stations to ensure stability during intermittent supply from renewables.