The National Grid PLC (LSE:NG.)’s Electricity System Operator (ESO) energy flexibility scheme kicks in today, during which households and companies will be paid for reducing electricity consumption.
Energy companies such as British Gas, EDF, Engie and Octopus Energy are among the list of providers that will be taking part in this year’s scheme.
A spokesperson for the National Grid ESO said that the live flexibility service will come into force because of forecasts suggesting meeting supply demands will be more difficult.
The Live Demand Flexibility Service scheme has been introduced following warnings of snow affecting the UK this week.
"Our forecasts show electricity supply margins are expected to be tighter than normal on Wednesday evening,” a spokesperson for the National Grid ESO said.
"These are precautionary measures to maintain the buffer of spare capacity we need.”
Under the scheme, the grid operator promises to pay business and household customers who consume less electricity.
Customers who use less energy than usual and have a smart meter with half-hourly metering can take part.
The scheme forms part of the national grid operator’s plan to prevent blackouts.
Tonight will be the first flexibility event offered this winter, and will take place between 17:00 and 18:30 GMT.