As cooler weather begins to roll in the talk of energy shortages and blackouts has returned. However, this year it is reported that our smart energy revolution can help to combat the issue, according to the UK chief of the National Grid.
Nicola Shaw has commented that an 'internet of energy' will help our white goods balance the demand on our energy supply. Whereas counter arguments have formed saying that what the UK really needs is more power generated from gas as a back up this winter.
Shaw believes that supply can be managed simply by UK households changing their demand patterns. She agrees that gas power could help, but doesn't not agree that it's the way forward. Statistics show that between 30% and 50% of energy fluctuations could be smoothed out by both households and businesses adjusting their demand during peak times.
Many energy suppliers currently offer cheaper prices outside of peak times, such as after midnight and before 8am. This doesn't suit most businesses, but households can adapt where possible to help make small savings. A firm in Cornwall has created an incentive for it's customers to use more power when the sun is out thanks to the extra solar power.
Speaking to BBC News, Shaw stated "we are at a moment of real change in the energy industry", meaning that the large energy organisations are now mostly using solar power in order to generate their supply.
People are already changing their energy usage in order to place less pressure on the system, and it's this smart usage of energy that will help us to avoid any unnessecary power cuts and blackouts this winter.
Embracing 'smart energy' and being wise about your spend will help the industry to progress into making new discoveries about how the country can be powered. If you're ever unsure about the figures on your bill then simply pay a visit to energyadviceline.org.uk - businesses and homeowners can receive free energy advice.