The National Grid Electricity System Operator (ESO) is said to be preparing to announce a scheme in which households with smart meters could be paid for turning off high-energy appliances such as washing machines during peak times, the Sunday Times has reported.
The initiative is expected to attempt to ease the burden of rising energy costs on UK households, as experts predict electricity costs could rise by as much as £6,000 per year for the average family from next April.
ESO is reportedly in the process of applying for Ofgem approval of the programme, which would allow households that minimise the use of appliances such as tumble dryers, dishwashers and games consoles during the peak hours of 5pm and 8pm to save up to £6 per kWh. According to The Sunday Times, the company hopes to open the scheme by late October.
“We are developing a new service that will be available for consumers to benefit from across this winter and will be announcing further...