Asking oneself if this is the right moment to start the dishwasher may seem trivial, yet most individuals decipher this naturally from their need for clean crockery, such as that last cereal bowl. Nonetheless, there are other indicators that may apply. According to the “Is this a good time?” initiative by ESB Networks, if the wind is active either before 5 pm or after 7 pm, it’s definitely the perfect moment.
This campaign, launched two years ago, aims to redirect domestic electrical consumption from periods of supply limitation to times when wind-generated electricity is more likely. Ireland’s energy supply is varied, encompassing gas, coal, peat, oil, and wind (a renewable source). The ultimate goal is to maximise usage of green energy sources due to their lower emission output.
During periods of high demand, there can be risks of electricity shortage; this is more probable if gas supplies are strained, wind power is low, generators fail, or interconnectors stop working. These risks peak between 5pm and 7pm on weekdays, as well as weekday mornings, especially as we head into the colder winter months.
With a greater demand for electricity during these times, Ireland heavily relies on imported fossil fuels, making these periods more carbon-intense. Conversely, when wind power generation is high, but consumption is low, we have the opportunity to switch to using more environmentally friendly, less carbon-heavy electricity.
If we all make calculated decisions on when to use our high-energy appliances, it will relieve strain from the national grid and decrease emissions. The “Is this a good time?” campaign has already gained around 18,000 subscribers who benefit from practical tips via text and email to adjust their power consumption habits.
What dictates the right moment to clean your laundry? It’s not when you’re down to the last pair of fresh socks anymore. Should the weather lean towards the windy, should renewable energy be plentiful, and assuming a full laundry load is at hand, then commencement should not be delayed.
Is that shirt of yours in need of ironing? If the clock strikes half past five on a Monday evening, you’ve just found yourself a very plausible reason for dodging the chore. Your motives are environmental, as you choose to either carry out the task, or not.
ESB Networks has chosen to elevate their approach, transforming the process into a game-like endeavour. Individuals are encouraged to engage in “energy happenings”, with the opportunity to receive a €5 eGift card in exchange for completing targeted actions and providing feedback within a strict 72-hour timeframe.
To date, homes have performed over 40,000 acts to boost Ireland’s energy security and decrease our dependence on fossil fuels, as per ESB Networks’ report.
One does not necessarily have to be an ESB customer to participate: enrolment can be initiated at esbnetworks.ie, regardless of your current electricity provider, simply by creating an ESB Networks online account using your MPRN, located at the top of your bill. Possession of a smart meter is not a prerequisite and joining will not affect your tariff.
Your electric bill will not inevitably be lower or higher due to participation. To ascertain if altering your consumption could alter your bill, it’s advised to verify your tariff with your provider.