Households In East Riding Could Get Free Electricity for Doing Washing or Charging EV on Sunny Weekends or Windy Days.

​The East Riding Liberal Democrats are welcoming a major shift in the UK energy market that could see local residents rewarded with free or cheaper electricity for simply putting on a wash during a sunny afternoon.

​The National Energy System Operator (NESO) has officially updated its Demand Flexibility Scheme, allowing energy providers to incentivise customers to increase their electricity usage during periods of excess supply. This means when the wind is howling across the Wolds or the sun is beating down on our coastal towns, you could be saving money while helping the planet.

​Turning Surplus into Savings

​For years, the challenge has been what to do when we produce more renewable energy than the grid can handle. Previously, wind farms were often paid to turn off to avoid overwhelming the system. Now, thanks to these common-sense changes approved by Ofgem, that "surplus" power can be funneled directly into your home.

​Whether it’s charging your electric vehicle, running the dishwasher, or catching up on the laundry, the scheme encourages us to use green energy when it’s at its most abundant—typically overnight, on weekends, or during Bank Holidays.

“This is exactly the kind of practical, money saving initiative Liberal Democrats want to see - helping residents cut bills while supporting clean energy.” Cllr Denis Healy - Lib Dem Group Leader ERYC.

​A Liberal Democrat Success Story

​This move towards a smarter, greener grid aligns perfectly with Liberal Democrat values of localism and environmental stewardship. We have long campaigned for a decentralised energy system.

​The results are already visible: 2025 was a record year for rooftop solar, with 250,000 new small-scale installations. Following a successful Lib Dem campaign, all new builds will be required to have solar panels installed as mandatory from 2028. This isn't just about big power stations; it's about empowering local households to become part of the solution.

​Learning from the Highlands and Islands

​While this scheme is now rolling out nationally, the Liberal Democrats have been champions of this "use it when it’s there" approach for years. Our colleague Alistair Carmichael, MP for Orkney and Shetland, has seen firsthand how local communities can benefit from being close to the source of green power. ​Speaking on the success of similar localised trials in Scotland, Alistair Carmichael noted:

​"The announcement of a trial of discounted energy rates for communities such as ours was a significant moment. We've been campaigning for years for an 'isles tariff', this could be the way to deliver it. The Northern Isles generate enormous amounts of energy for this country, so we stand to gain significantly using wind energy that would otherwise go to waste."— Alistair Carmichael MP

It is a win-win: it lowers bills for families and ensures that not a single kilowatt of clean, green energy is squandered. Expanding this principle across the country is the right move for our economy and our environment.

"It’s gaining traction and seems like a no brainer, especially when so many local residents are struggling with the cost of living. The world is changing." Cllr Denis Healy 

​How Can East Riding Residents Benefit?

​Currently, the scheme is open to households with a smart meter whose suppliers (such as British Gas, Octopus Energy, or Equiwatt) have signed up. But NESO said it expects more suppliers to join.

​Financial Rewards: You could receive cash back, cheaper rates, or points for gift cards.

​Grid Resilience: By shifting our usage, we reduce the need for the grid to "lean" on expensive and polluting fossil fuel gas during peak times.

​Local Action: It reduces the "complexity" of the grid, ensuring our local infrastructure stays resilient throughout the summer months.

Dr Deborah Petterson, director of resilience and emergency management at NESO said: “Tools such as the Demand Flexibility Service not only reward consumers and businesses for flexible electricity use but also strengthen the resilience and efficiency of Great Britain’s electricity network.”

​The East Riding Liberal Democrats believe that the transition to Net Zero should put money back into your pocket. This scheme is a massive step forward in making clean energy work for the many, not just the few.

​Check with your energy provider today to see if you can start turning the East Riding wind and sun into savings on your next bill!