Struggling UK households could be given discounts on energy bills if they stop using appliances at peak times.
The scheme would allow people to save if they avoid high power activity – such as cookers, washing machines, dishwashers and games consoles when demand is high.
But it is understood the money-saving plan will be limited to homes with smart meters.
National Grid Electricity Supplier Operator (ESO) is set to announce the plans “soon,” the BBC reported, and is hoped to be in place this winter.
According to the BBC, the proposals will be announced over the next fortnight, with consultations between energy providers and Ofgem taking place.
Energy bills are set to rise to £3,582 a year this October and are forecasted to break the £4,000 mark in January.
Households could receive as much as £6 per kilowatt hour saved during the peak hours of 5pm to 8pm for not using dishwashers, tumble dryers and games consoles.
Despite supply fears due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, National Grid ESO previously told the BBC the scheme is not about rationing energy.
Last week, energy providers Centrica, which owns British Gas, and Octopus backed plans to freeze the price cap in order to ease the burden on households.