Customers with smart meters can save 50% on electricity during a two-hour window on Friday as part of the PeakSave Green Flex programme, British Gas confirms. The initiative aims to shift energy usage to periods of high renewable supply, reducing pressure on the grid.
British Gas is urging customers to take advantage of a short-term discount, as part of its ongoing effort to encourage demand flexibility in line with increased renewable energy generation. Between 1.30pm and 3.30pm on Friday, customers registered for the PeakSave Green Flex scheme can benefit from half-price electricity.
This limited-time event coincides with a period of expected high output from solar and wind energy sources, according to British Gas. The move is designed to align consumer electricity usage with times of renewable energy surplus, reinforcing the utility’s broader strategy to promote cleaner, more efficient consumption patterns.
Renewable Energy Drives Discount Pricing
According to British Gas, Friday’s PeakSave Green Flex event was scheduled due to favourable weather conditions forecast to generate significant levels of renewable energy. The two-hour window allows eligible customers to use power-intensive appliances at a reduced rate, with the discount applied retroactively as a credit on their energy bills.
The scheme is part of a growing number of initiatives across the UK designed to manage energy demand more efficiently during periods of abundant renewable generation.
Customers do not need to be on a specific tariff to qualify, but they must have a functioning smart electricity meter and be opted into the PeakSave programme. British Gas confirmed that invitations are sent via email either on the day of the event or the day before, depending on weather predictions.
Appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines, and electric ovens are highlighted as ideal for use during these windows. The initiative also serves to raise awareness of household energy habits and offers users greater visibility over their consumption patterns via smart meter feedback.
Flexibility Scheme Aims to Ease Grid Pressure
PeakSave Green Flex is part of a wider effort to balance supply and demand on the UK’s energy grid, particularly as the country increases its reliance on renewable sources. According to British Gas, more than one million customers are currently enrolled in the PeakSave scheme, with over £25 million credited to participants so far.
The programme is not mandatory and does not alter existing tariffs. Customers are charged at their normal rate during the event, with 50% of the total electricity cost reimbursed after the event ends. Prepayment customers also receive credits, typically within ten working days after the month’s end.
British Gas notes that regular participation helps improve grid efficiency and supports national decarbonisation goals. Though the scheme does not affect gas pricing or daily standing charges, it is expected to play a role in future strategies for managing peak energy usage.
