Millions of British Gas customers could be missing out on significant savings by overlooking a simple feature in their smart meter app. As the cost of living crisis continues to squeeze household budgets, energy experts are urging consumers to take advantage of a money-saving button that could reduce electricity costs by hundreds of pounds annually.
The Peak Time Savings Opportunity
British Gas has introduced a revolutionary scheme called Peak Time Savings, designed to reward customers who reduce their electricity consumption during periods of high demand. This initiative not only helps households save money but also contributes to stabilising the national grid during peak usage times.
How Does It Work?
When the energy network experiences particularly high demand, typically between 5pm and 7pm on weekdays, British Gas notifies participating customers through their app. By simply clicking the 'opt in' button and reducing electricity usage during these specified hours, customers can earn significant savings on their bills.
Substantial Financial Benefits
The potential savings are far from trivial. One British Gas customer reported earning over £50 in savings through just a few events, while another managed to reduce their bill by an impressive £120. With multiple events occurring throughout the year, the cumulative savings could make a meaningful difference to household finances.
Who Can Participate?
Currently, this money-saving opportunity is available to British Gas customers who meet specific criteria:
- Must have a working smart meter
- Need to have the British Gas app installed
- Must be on a standard variable tariff
Customers can easily check their eligibility through the British Gas app, where they'll find a dedicated section for Peak Time Savings.
Simple Strategies for Reducing Usage
Energy experts suggest several straightforward ways to cut consumption during peak hours:
- Delay using high-energy appliances like washing machines and dishwashers until after the peak period
- Switch off unnecessary lights and electrical devices
- Reduce heating by a single degree during these hours
- Avoid charging electric vehicles during peak times
These minor adjustments, when combined across thousands of households, can lead to substantial savings for individual consumers while helping to balance the national energy grid.
A Win-Win Solution
This initiative represents a rare opportunity where individual financial benefit aligns with broader environmental and infrastructure goals. As energy prices remain volatile, such schemes provide consumers with tangible ways to regain control over their energy spending while contributing to a more sustainable energy system for everyone.
