Get shifty and reduce your carbon footprint

We all want to help save the planet, right? That's why you chose Britain's biggest generator of clean, zero carbon electricity as your energy supplier!

One cool thing you can do is shift your electricity usage away from peak hours. It may take some planning and effort, but it's totally doable and worth it!

In this article, we'll explain why this change is so important and give you some friendly tips on how you can make it happen.

What's the challenge?

When the electricity demand is high, we generate more power by burning fossil fuels. This increased consumption of fossil fuels is harmful to the environment. However, if we shift our electricity usage during peak demand, it can help balance things out. This is an effective way to achieve a cleaner and more sustainable future.

Peak electricity, or 'peak electricity hours', is the time of day when people use the most electricity. This usually happens in the morning when people are getting ready for work or school and later in the evening when they return home.

If we can shift this pattern, we will not need to burn as much fossil fuel, which is much better for the planet.

How can I get a shift on?

We understand that everyone has busy lives and must plan around work and family commitments. However, more of us work flexibly between the office and home, so we have time to plan when we use our washing machines and pop on the dishwasher.

Remember safety first – never switch off anything that keeps you safe and warm.

How to get shifty in the evening: Our top tips

• Limit the use of the electric shower to the morning if you can
   
• Beware of your 'vampire devices'. These are consumer electronics like laptops, TVs and game consoles that use up to 6% of your energy bill. Avoid leaving them on standby and charge them during off-peak hours
   
• Use battery power during these times for as long as possible
   
• Change the time or day you put your washing machine on, and if it's a sunny day, get your washing outside rather than use the tumble drier
   
• Make sure to fill your dishwasher before starting it, and put it on outside of peak hours
   
• During the weekend, plan a batch cook with the kids and reheat with the microwave throughout the week. For warmer weather, try out some new salad recipes
   
• Get crafty and reignite your creative passion. Try something new with your family
   
• If you have an electric vehicle, wait to use your cheaper off-peak electricity night-time rates to charge your car. With our EV tariff, you can charge your EV off-peak for under £10 overnight.

How can I get started?

Are you wondering how to get started monitoring your electricity usage during peak hours? The best way to do that is by getting a smart meter. With this, you can avoid the hassle of manually sending us meter readings and access all your energy data through your Energy Hub.

What are you waiting for? Get a shift on and book a smart meter appointment!