Page last updated on 16th February 2026
Module 5: Consumer-led flexibility
The way many of us use electricity will need to change. Great Britain’s energy future needs to be flexible, and people and smart meters are at the heart of this change.
But have you ever wondered, but not asked, what ‘being flexible’ with electricity use really means? Or, how and why energy suppliers would want to pay/reward their customers for shifting when they use electricity, or even using less?
At Smart Energy GB, we have put together a set of resources help you understand what consumer-led flexibility is, how it will benefit your constituents, and how smart meters can help them participate to potentially save money on their energy bills.
Modules available now:
Modules coming soon:
- Putting it into practice: Why does Great Britain need consumer-led flexibility?
- Hear from households: How are households across Britain taking part in and benefiting from consumer-led flexibility?
Household flexibility: explore our interactive asset
Frequently Asked Questions
What is energy flexibly?
In Great Britain, our energy system is always balancing how much energy is produced (supply) against how much energy is needed across the country (demand). Energy flexibility helps to keep our energy system balanced by better matching supply and demand across the day.
You and your constituents can help balance the energy system by changing when and how you use electricity at home in response to a signal. It might involve using less electricity at certain times, using more when electricity is plentiful and / or cheaper, or shifting activities like charging an electric vehicle or running appliances to different times of the day.
Flexibility helps bring down everyone’s bills, because over time, it reduces system costs by making it more efficient at managing supply and demand for consumers/constituents. Constituents who actively participate in energy flex are able to make further savings.
How can constituents get involved in energy flex?
To take part in flexible energy schemes, you’ll need a smart meter.
It must be working in smart mode and sending readings every 30 minutes. This lets your supplier see when you use energy and offer rewards or cheaper prices for using energy at off-peak times
Your energy supplier should be able to install a smart meter for you at no extra cost.
You’ll also need to sign up for a flexible rewards scheme or a time-of-use tariff. These usually give you cheaper energy at off-peak times or rewards for shifting your energy use. Check with your supplier for the details of their scheme, as they will vary.
Want to know more? We answer more FAQs here, including:
- How does energy flex benefit the environment and / or energy security?
- What does peak and off-peak mean?
- What types of flexible tariffs are there?
- What if constituents can’t take part?
Need further support?
We’re here to support where we can with any questions you or your constituents may have:
England: [email protected]
Scotland: [email protected]
Wales: [email protected]
To learn more about the rollout and other organisations involved, visit our website below: