How using energy off-peak could save you money

About 5.3 million households currently owe money to their energy supplier, and for many more, simply keeping up with energy bills is a monthly struggle.

But it’s a problem that many energy companies acknowledge.

That’s why they’re actively encouraging people to change their habits, such as by offering incentives to use energy off-peak.

What is off-peak electricity?

Power can be cheaper at times when demand is lower, such as late at night or earlier in the morning.

So if you use energy guzzling devices such as the washing machine and dishwasher at these times, it might cost you less.

Providers offering incentives to use power off-peak

Energy companies are offering rewards, cheaper tariffs and even freebies to customers who move their electricity usage to off-peak times.

Off-peak hours vary depending on your energy supplier and what type of meter you have. 

But typically, off-peak electricity is available for seven hours between 11pm and 8am.

Some tariffs include a super off-peak window - usually around 2am to 5am - with the lowest rates.

You might also be rewarded for using electricity on Sundays or during set time slots during the week.

If you’re not sure what your off-peak times are, speak to your energy supplier.

But be aware that many of these deals are aimed at households with smart meters, as suppliers need to track when you’re using power.

Which suppliers are rewarding customers for using energy off-peak?

Many major energy providers are now offering various rewards, time-based tariffs and discounts to customers who use power off-peak, including:

• E.ON Next
• British Gas
• EDF
• OVO
• Scottish Power
• Octopus Energy

So check your energy supplier’s website, or have a look on price comparison websites, to see if you can find a provider and tariff that rewards you for using energy at off-peak hours.

Lower bills aren’t guaranteed

We should stress that while these offers are designed to help you save money, you won’t benefit if you don’t actually change your habits.

So if you carry on using most of your electricity during peak times, you’ll still pay higher peak-time rates and that will be reflected on your bill.

What help is available if you’re struggling with energy costs?

If you’re finding it difficult to pay your energy bills, help is available:

Contact your energy supplier

If you let your provider know that you’re finding it hard to keep up with your bills, they might offer payment plans or grants. 

Government help

Support such as the warm home discount, winter fuel payment, and cold weather payment may help eligible households.

Household support scheme

Speak to your local council - they might be able to give you money or vouchers to help with energy costs.

We can help you 

We can support you with managing energy debt and help you check what benefits you’re entitled to.

And take a look at our recent article - Are you paying more for your energy bills than you have to? - for practical, handy tips on cutting your costs.