OVO Energy customers could make up to £100 by using power-guzzling appliances outside of peak times this winter.
The energy supplier has become the latest firm to sign up to the new Demand Flexibility Service, run by the National Grid Electricity System Operator (ESO).
OVO customers will be paid for lowering their electricity use outside of busy times.
This could mean you’ll have to avoid using power-hungry appliances - for example, the washing machine or tumble dryer - during certain periods of the day.
Energy usage is normally highest in the evening, typically around 4pm to 7pm - although OVO said the scheme can be activated whenever the National Grid thinks it is necessary.
The trial will run from December 8 until March 31, 2023 and is separate to the OVO Power Move scheme, which works in a similar way.
Customers will be told by email what days the Demand Flexibility Service scheme is running, and the time of day.
If you are eligible, you will need to opt-in to receiving email notifications - and you'll need to have a smart meter installed.
OVO said customers can make a minimum of £1 for every kWh shifted below their target.
Based on these calculations, the energy supplier reckons the average home could earn around £50 in total, rising to £100 for bigger energy savings.
The money will be issued as credit to your energy account.
The scheme will first be open to 15,000 OVO customers before expanding after the first month.
Customers won't be able to sign up to both the Demand Flexibility Service and the Power Moves trials.
Raman Bhatia, CEO of OVO, said: “We’re pleased to be joining the National Grid Electricity System Operator’s Demand Flexibility Scheme and launching another trial which rewards customers for their efforts in making small but significant changes to the way they consume energy.
“We know that winter is going to be a challenging time for many, so relieving that pressure where we can, and supporting our customers has never been more important.”
The new Demand Flexibility Service is being launched to help protect gas supplies and avoid blackouts this winter.
It comes after the ESO said Brits could face three-hour planned power cuts if there is a shortage of gas.
This was the worst-case scenario presented in a report last month - and system operators insist it is “unlikely” we’ll run out of power .
Other suppliers that have signed up to the Demand Flexibility Service include British Gas, Octopus Energy, EDF, E.ON Next and Shell Energy.
