Martin Lewis has issued a warning to all homeowners that use a washing machine. Speaking to hosts Holly Willoughby and Philip Schofield during yesterday's (Jan 24) episode of This Morning, the Money Saving Expert founder urged viewers to not use the appliance during a certain three hour window during the day.
His warning came as the financial guru delivered a “general energy security message”, which he says should have “been said more by the government”. As reported by the MEN, he added: “We are looking at energy difficulties this winter. We hope there will not be any blackouts.
"But there are emergency scenarios where power cuts - short power cuts - in different regions are possible that have been put forward by National Grid.” In the UK, the peak use for electricity is between 4pm and 7pm, where demand for power is at its highest.
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Such a demand however puts strain on the National Grid system, especially if there are a lot of people using high power devices at the time, as this could increase the likelihood of it becoming overloaded. As a result, the National Grid warns that should a blackout occur, it would most likely take place during this time - particularly on a "really, really cold day."
Martin told viewers they should try their best to avoid using their washing machine, or other energy-guzzling appliances (like a tumble dryer), between 4pm-7pm in a bid to help the National Grid avoid needing to schedule blackouts. He said: “Let’s all try not to put stuff we don’t need to put on between 4pm and 7pm.
“If we can avoid using lots of energy between 4pm and 7pm and it makes no difference to our lives, then we should all be somewhat conscious of that. Whether or not it’s cheaper, because it will collectively help us all."
According to the National Grid’s chief executive, John Pettigrew, blackouts could happen in January and February. About half the energy on the grid comes from gas however coal-powered power stations could be put on standby which could ease the burden.
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