How the Eclipse Power Down works
Octopus is asking eligible customers to cut back between 6pm and 8pm on Wednesday 12 August. Those who use less than usual during the two-hour window will receive one hour of free electricity on Sunday 16 August in the daytime. The scheme is open only to people already in the Octoplus rewards programme and signed up to Saving Sessions.
Enter the photo competition
Customers can also post a public photo on Instagram, Facebook, X or Bluesky showing what they did instead of running appliances indoors. Tag @OctopusEnergy and add #OctoEclipse for a chance to win free solar panels and installation, or a £12,000 cash alternative. Full terms apply.
Why the timing matters
The eclipse will block up to 95% of the sun across parts of Britain, cutting solar output just as evening demand rises. Octopus says enough households shifting usage could reduce the need for extra gas generation. 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.”
Check if you're eligible
You need to be an Octopus customer already in Octoplus and Saving Sessions to take part. If you're not with them yet, compare energy tariffs to see what else is available.
