Welcome to the January newsletter!

This month we take a look at the importance of 'demand shifting' for saving on bills and supporting the electricity system.

We also have the latest on the P441 modification to electricity trading rules, plus we've been out and about training more Energy Local enthusiasts.

P441 modification takes another step forward

Following the fantastic response to the November consultation on the P441 modification – designed to create clearer, simplified rules for local energy markets – there’s more positive news.

• On the 22 January, after considering the consultation responses, the P441 working group voted unanimously to submit the modification to the Elexon Balancing and Settlement Code Panel.
• If the Panel agrees, there will be a consultation from 16-27 February 2026.

Assuming that goes ahead, there will then be further consideration by the Panel, and if approved, P441 will be passed to Ofgem for a final decision at some point in 2026. We hope this will be completed by June.

We do not yet have the full details of the next round of consultation but it’s not expected to be an in-depth as November.

We will be sharing more on this soon hopefully and would be very grateful for further support!

For more information on P441 you can read more here.

The ultimate goal is to enable more people and generators to benefit from local energy markets – reducing bills, keeping more money in communities and supporting local renewables.

How when you use power can benefit you and the UK

Using electricity at the right time can save you money and help build a cleaner, more resilient energy system.

In an Energy Local Club, ‘demand shifting’ means using power when your local renewable is generating. When your energy use matches local generation half hour by half hour, you benefit from cheaper local electricity through your club’s ‘match tariff’.

Small changes make a big difference. For example, running the washing machine or dishwasher when the generator is producing power, or batch cooking off-peak instead of during the 4–8pm evening rush, can lower bills, cut carbon, and support your local community.

Demand shifting also helps the wider electricity system by reducing pressure at peak times and making space for more renewables on the grid.

Read our full blog to find out why changing when you use electricity helps you, your community, and the country — and for more easy ways to 'shift and save'.

We'd love to hear your ideas on [email protected]!

Essex explores several Energy Local Clubs

Our founder Dr Mary Gillie has been cross-country to Essex for a packed and productive advisor training session with several potential Energy Local Clubs across the county.

We love to see so much local interest and commitment to community energy.
 
A big thank you to Essex County Council, 3Green and all the others in attendance for the warm welcome and enthusiasm!