Avoid using washing machines and dishwashers during solar eclipse, energy firms urge

The UK’s biggest household energy supplier is urging customers to cut their electricity use this week as the country prepares for its deepest solar eclipse in almost 30 years.

Octopus Energy has asked customers to avoid using washing machines and dishwashers between 6pm and 8pm this Wednesday, when the moon is expected to block up to 95% of the sun over parts of Britain.

The eclipse is expected to bring solar power generation to an end for the day, just as the UK’s fifth heatwave of the year could drive up electricity demand from air conditioning, fans and refrigeration systems.

Rebecca Dibb-Simkin, Chief Customer Officer at Octopus Energy, said: “Many of us will be looking up at the sky on Wednesday evening to experience this once-in-a-generation event. But as the Sun disappears, so will some of Britain’s solar generation, just as demand peaks.

“By shifting everyday tasks like the washing machine or dishwasher until later, households can help reduce the need for gas power stations – and earn rewards for doing their bit.”

Octopus is offering customers signed up to its rewards programme two free hours of electricity to use next weekend, but only if they avoid unnecessary electricity use during the eclipse

The firm believes that if enough households delay using electricity for a short time, it could reduce the need for Great Britain’s electricity system operator to fire up extra gas-fired stations to replace the lost solar power.

Earlier this year, the National Energy System Operator (Neso) announced it would reward consumers who increased their electricity use when there is an oversupply of energy.

The operator runs a scheme called the Demand Flexibility Service, which rewards consumers and businesses for adapting when they use power, if the energy system needs support.

Meanwhile, ScottishPower’s Whitelee Wind Farm in East Renfrewshire is opening late on Wednesday to allow eclipse watchers the chance to capture the rare event with uninterrupted views of Glasgow.

A spokesperson for ScottishPower said: “ScottishPower Power Saver customers benefit from eight hours half-price electricity every week, helping them save money off their bills while supporting a smarter and more efficient energy system.

“Our customers simply select what hours suit them and reap the benefits of a more flexible energy system on their terms.”

Consumers warned against using ‘knock-off’ glasses

Only special solar eclipse glasses that are ISO 12312-2 certified for the safest eye protection should be used to view the eclipse.

However they have all but sold out online ahead of the event, or carry hefty delivery fees to arrive in time.

Experts have warned that so-called eclipse glasses that do not carry the safety standards, or ordinary sunglasses, no matter how dark, should never be worn to view an eclipse, as they reduce glare, making it feel more comfortable to look at the Sun for longer, but still allow harmful solar radiation to reach the retina.

Following the 1999 total solar eclipse, the Royal College of Ophthalmologists reported around 70 cases of people experiencing vision problems after watching the eclipse.

Around 40% had looked at it for less than a minute.