Households could be handed cash to turn off electricity-guzzling appliances at peak times this winter in a new measure to tackle energy shortages.
Fears that high usage in autumn and winter could over-stretch the power network has lead officials at the National Grid to draw up the new 'rebate' scheme, according to insiders.
The measure, which would require approval by energy regulator Ofgem before being introduced in late October, could involve payments of up to £6 per kWh to households which cut down in the three-hour peak slot between 5pm and 8pm.
