How the scheme works
Octopus Energy has launched Peak Performance, a programme that pays commercial and industrial sites to reduce or shift electricity demand when the grid is tight. Run with Voltus, the service targets factories, warehouses and hotels and pays per megawatt of flexible capacity. The initial phase is open to any large user spending more than £20,000 a month on electricity; switching suppliers is not required.
What businesses can earn
Payments depend on how much and how often a site can flex. Modelling in the launch materials shows tens of thousands of pounds a year is possible for a full megawatt across 365 hours of turn-down at average prices. Octopus business customers can layer the scheme on top of smart tariffs such as Shape Shifters, where existing users have cut bills by an average of 7 percent simply by moving usage to cheaper, greener periods.
Why it matters for costs and the grid
British firms already pay some of the highest industrial electricity prices in Europe. The programme gives them a direct revenue stream while helping the system avoid expensive gas plants and make better use of wind and solar. By 2030, the UK could unlock up to 6 GW of flexible business demand, roughly the load of 6,000 supermarkets. Alex Schoch, Director of Flexibility and Electrification at Octopus Energy, said: “British businesses face some of the highest electricity prices in Europe. Octopus Peak Performance helps British businesses take back control of their energy bills. Over a million Octopus households already get paid to adjust when they use electricity. We're bringing that same idea to businesses – helping them save money and become more competitive without disrupting day-to-day operations.”
Businesses can register interest at the Octopus site. For the latest business energy options, see our gas and electricity pages.
