Octopus Energy is advising customers across the UK to adopt a specific daily habit in a bid to combat rising energy costs. The supplier suggests that households keen to lower their utility bills should aim to use significant amounts of electricity between midnight and 4pm.
Why Timing Your Energy Use Matters
On its dedicated energy-saving tips page, which promises potential savings of over £500, Octopus highlights that "timing is key". The company points out that the national grid relies more heavily on clean, renewable energy sources during the overnight and daytime window of 12am to 4pm. Shifting high-energy tasks like running washing machines into this period can therefore lead to both financial and environmental benefits.
However, the advice comes with a crucial caveat. The savings are primarily accessible to customers on a time-of-use tariff, such as an Economy Seven plan or a smart meter variable tariff. Those on a standard flat-rate tariff pay the same price for power at all hours.
Understanding Peak and Off-Peak Hours
For those on the right tariff, the structure of daily rates is vital. Typically, off-peak hours with the cheapest rates occur overnight, often from midnight to 7am. This is when electricity demand is at its lowest. Conversely, peak hours with higher rates usually fall in the mornings (7am-9am) and evenings (4pm-7pm), aligning with times of high household demand.
Octopus's suggested 12am to 4pm window encompasses a mix of these rates. While the period from midnight to the early morning is often the absolute cheapest ("super off-peak"), the late morning and afternoon may carry a standard rate. Crucially, 4pm often marks the start of the expensive evening peak, so the advice is to complete energy-intensive tasks well before then.
Practical Steps to Maximise Your Savings
To make the most of potential savings, Octopus and other experts recommend a few actionable steps:
First, check your energy bill to confirm your tariff type and the exact off-peak hours for your specific plan. Next, shift your usage: utilise timer functions on appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and tumble dryers to run during confirmed off-peak times. Charging an electric vehicle overnight is another prime opportunity.
It is also advised to avoid using high-energy appliances during peak evening hours from 4pm to 7pm. Experts note that time-of-use tariffs only yield significant savings if you can move at least 40% of your electricity consumption to cheaper periods.
For personalised advice and to compare different energy plans, consumers are encouraged to contact their supplier directly or use accredited comparison services.
