The UK government, led by Energy Minister Michael Shanks, is implementing a new flexible energy system aimed at giving consumers greater control over their energy use and reducing system costs by up to £70 billion by 2050.

To oversee this initiative, a Flexibility Commissioner will be appointed, and an annual forum will be established to monitor progress and ensure accountability.

This effort is part of the broader Clean Flexibility Roadmap, which aligns with the UK's net-zero emissions goals and aims to strengthen the resilience of the power network.

As the UK increases reliance on renewable energy sources like wind and solar, flexible energy use becomes essential to manage supply and demand effectively.

The government plans to introduce flexible energy tariffs to help households lower their electricity bills, with a focus on enabling consumers to benefit from lower off-peak prices.

Efforts include improving access to information about smart tariffs and offering tailored energy products based on individual usage patterns.

A two-month consultation has been launched to explore additional ways to support consumers in adopting flexible energy usage.

By 2030, the government aims to increase clean flexibility capacity two to three times, as outlined in its December 2024 Clean Power 2030 Action Plan.

Ofgem's director general emphasizes that a more flexible energy market will significantly benefit households by providing greater control over energy costs and encouraging minor adjustments like running appliances at night.

Industry stakeholders support the plan, recognizing its potential to empower consumers and facilitate a transition to cleaner energy.

Flexible tariffs and smart appliances will enable households, especially electric vehicle drivers, to take advantage of off-peak electricity prices and discounts at public chargers.

Overall, the UK’s push for flexible energy solutions is designed to support the country's net-zero ambitions, improve energy resilience, and help consumers save on their bills.