Energy & Climate
‘Watt a save!’
Octopus Energy extends free electricity pubs scheme for all remaining World Cup matches.
15 July 2026
Britain’s deepest solar eclipse in almost 30 years will occur this Wednesday, when the Moon will block up to 95% of the Sun over parts of Britain.
Octopus Energy is asking households to cut back on electricity between 18.00 and 20.00 – when the eclipse is at its darkest and solar generation takes a hit.
Eligible customers who use a little less electricity than normal during those two hours will earn free electricity the following weekend.
Customers can also enter Octopus’ eclipse photo competition for the chance to win free solar panels and installation – or £12,000 in cash instead.
Taking part is easy. Simply shift everyday jobs outside the 18.00-20.00 window – run the washing machine earlier or wait until later to use the dishwasher.
The timing matters because the eclipse will briefly knock out a chunk of Britain’s solar power just as millions of people are getting home and electricity demand is climbing.
Solar energy plays an increasingly important role in Britain’s energy system. Solar generated a record 14.4% of Britain’s electricity in July, meaning a couple of hours without sunshine can leave a gap that has to be filled.
If enough households delay using electricity for a short time, it could reduce the need to fire up extra gas power stations.
Household flexibility is one of Britain’s biggest untapped energy resources. Octopus estimates homes could provide a whopping 13GW of flexible capacity to support the electricity system – particularly through smart appliances, EVs and home batteries – yet only a fraction of this potential is currently being used.
‘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.’
REBECCA DIBB-SIMKIN
Chief Customer Officer at Octopus Energy
The Eclipse Power Down is the latest initiative from Octopus’ popular Octoplus rewards programme. Octoplus has more than 2 million customers signed up and has already paid out over £11 million and provided 20.5GWh of free electricity to households helping make Britain’s electricity system smarter, greener and more flexible.
Customers who want to take part in the Eclipse Power Down Sessions can sign up here.
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