The EQUINOX trial

What is the trial?
EQUINOX is an innovation trial supported by Ofgem and funded through the regulator’s Network Innovation Competition (NIC). The trial will test new billing schemes to reward households for temporarily altering their heating choices without compromising on comfort. EQUINOX saves consumers money by lowering energy bills and mitigating costly system upgrades, while contributing to a more resilient and equitable low-carbon energy system.

EQUINOX is led by National Grid (Electricity Distribution), formerly Western Power Distribution, in partnership with Octopus Energy, Passiv UK, Sero, SP Energy Networks, Welsh Government, West Midlands Combined Authority, National Energy Action (NEA), Scottish Power Energy Retail, and Guidehouse.

Residents who participate in the EQUINOX trial agree to allow Sero to switch off their heat pump 2-3 times a week from 5pm - 7pm on particular days. These will be referred to as 'EQUINOX Events'. During these times comfort disruption will be minimum and each participant will receive a credit on their energy account, helping them to save energy, money and the planet!

But why? 
If everyone in the UK decided to turn on their electrical appliances at the same time, this could cause something called “grid congestion”, where the amount of electricity needed is more than the electricity grid can carry. This is especially likely to happen during “peak times” in the mornings or evenings when most people are at home and using electricity to cook, clean, and power other devices.

The transition to a much higher level of electric-based heating via heat pumps in order to take advantage of green energy will put a lot more pressure on the grid during “peak times”.  Increasing the amount of electricity used by households means that the grid would require massive system upgrades, which are costly to consumers. 

A more flexible grid system could mean better tariffs, a reduced need for expenditure on infrastructure and networks, the implementation cost of which would ultimately end up being passed onto the customer, and a new way of looking at how we consume energy in our homes. This trial aims to explore how we can ensure that the grid energy we all use can become more sustainable, whilst saving consumers money.

Payment
Participants will be informed by text message of the trial times and dates the day before the energy saving event and will be paid a participation fee for each EQUINOX Event, they take part in. This fee will be paid in the form of a credit onto their energy account, and be based on the duration of each event they take part in.

Opt out process
Participants are able to opt out of the trial at any time, this will however, affect the amount of payment/credit they receive for an EQUINOX Event. They are able to opt out of just one event at a time or the complete trail by calling the Sero customer team on 029 2000 2882 and select option 1.

To find out more about the trial, visit National Grid’s website here.

If you would like to take part in any of our innovative energy pilots and be part of the energy revolution sign up here and we will be in touch! 

A few frequently asked questions or FAQs

What days will it be?
The EQUINOX Events can happen on any day in the week (this does not include weekends) – you will be informed of event 24hours before.

What hours will it be?
The EQUINOX Event will take place between 5pm and 7pm on the chosen day, you will be informed of the event 24 hours prior to it starting. Please all be aware that switch off of heat pumps will begin from 4.45pm to ensure they are off for 5pm.

How much money should I expect to save? Per event/altogether
There is a potential to earn up to £100 during this trial. There will be two ways in which we pay these credits.
1. Save as you go
We will be monitoring your participation in the event via the Sero BEE and the customer service team, you will not need to inform us of how long you participated for. Below is the breakdown of how the credit will be calculated:

2. Save in advance
Set amount of credit applied to monthly statement each month. This credit is fixed regardless of flexibility provided.

How and when will I get access to the saved money?
If you participate in events, the credit will be paid onto your account on your following monthly statement.

What impact will it have on my temperature?
Your heat pump will be turned off for approx. 2 hours, we do not expect a significant impact on temperatures within your home during this time. This will be dependent on your individual environment, and the current temperature in your home. If you do require additional heat or hot water during the EQUINOX Event, please contact the Sero team to opt out.

How do I opt out?
You can opt out of any event at any time, before or during each EQUINOX Event. However, this will affect the amount of credit you can earn for each event. This is detailed above.

What about my hot water?
Your water cylinder will not be heated during the 2 hour EQUINOX Events. Any water in your cylinder that is already heated can be used as normal, if you find that you run out of hot water during an event and need more, our team will be ready to take your calls to switch your system back on. Please remember that it can take up to 2 hours to heat your full cylinder.

Who do I contact if there’s a problem?
Please contact the Sero Life team on 029 2000 2882

What about Christmas and New Year?
There will be no events planned over the Christmas and New Year break.

You can find more information about the EQUINOX trial and FAQ’s on National Grids website here.