The energy supplier UK households says “timing is key”
Octopus has shared some of its top energy-saving habits(Image: Getty )
Octopus Energy is encouraging households across Britain to adopt a simple daily habit when consuming electricity to help reduce energy bills and cut costs. The energy provider has dedicated a section of its website to sharing practical advice aimed at making household expenses more manageable and ensuring customers aren’t overpaying.
On its ‘Energy saving tips: save over £500 on your energy bills’ page, Octopus Energy outlines several kitchen-focused measures homeowners might want to implement to trim their outgoings. The company emphasises that “timing is key” and advises postponing laundry tasks until off-peak hours as a sensible approach.
“To save energy, it’s worthwhile thinking about when you use electricity, for example, putting a load of washing on.,” it states. “Between midnight and 4pm, more of the UK’s power comes from clean, green renewable sources.” There’s an added bonus for particular customers: “AND if you’re on a day/night tariff, you can use the cheaper night-time rate for overnight washes or EV charging.”
By adopting this straightforward principle, households could gain greater command over their monthly spending and potentially knock a few pounds off their utility costs. It’s well established that certain periods throughout the day tend to offer better value than others owing to reduced electricity demand, particularly during the small hours of the morning, reports the Mirror.
The ‘best time’ example given by Octopus Energy, suggesting significant electricity usage between midnight and 4pm, is largely dependent on your specific energy tariff. If you’re on a standard flat-rate tariff, the cost remains consistent throughout the day. To capitalise on cheaper electricity rates at certain times, you’ll need a time-of-use tariff, such as Economy Seven or a smart meter tariff.
Smart meters paired with variable tariffs can lead to substantial savings. By scheduling high-energy tasks like laundry or cooking during cheaper energy periods, you can cut costs.
Consider running appliances like dishwashers and washing machines, or charging electric cars, during off-peak hours when energy is less expensive. Utilise pressure cookers or air fryers in the morning when rates are lower, reheating your food later in the day.
Energy conservation can significantly reduce your utility bills. Using less gas and electricity directly translates into lower payments for these services.
Time-of-use tariffs
Off-peak hours, offering cheaper rates, typically occur at night, usually spanning a seven-hour period from midnight to 7am (or similar times from 10pm to 8am). This is when demand on the national grid is at its lowest.
Peak hours, which carry higher rates, generally fall in the morning (around 7am-9am) and evening (around 4pm-7pm), when most people are home and consuming energy. The daytime rates during these periods are often higher than those of a standard single-rate tariff.
Is midnight to 4pm best?
For most time-of-use tariffs, the period from midnight to 4pm encompasses a blend of off-peak and occasionally standard or even peak rates:
- Midnight to early morning (like 2am-5am) is usually the cheapest time, called the “super off-peak” period.
- Morning hours (like 8am-10am) are often peak times and can be pricey.
- Late morning and afternoon (like 10am-4pm) might have a standard rate, an off-peak rate, or a super off-peak rate based on your specific plan.
Using electricity at midnight is typically cost-effective. However, consumption at 4 pm can be expensive as this is when peak rates usually kick in.
How to maximise savings
Examine your bill. Ensure you’re aware if you’re on a single-rate or multi-rate tariff and verify the precise off-peak hours for your plan.
Adjust your usage. Operate high-energy appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, and tumble dryers (many have timers) during the off-peak periods you’ve identified.
Avoid energy use during peak times. Refrain from running energy-intensive appliances during the busy evening hours (typically from 4pm to 7pm).
Consider your lifestyle. Time-of-use tariffs only offer savings if you can shift at least 40% of your electricity use to the cheaper hours.
For the most accurate information on your rates and to compare different options, contact your energy supplier or utilise energy comparison services like MoneySuperMarket or Compare the Market.
