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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
National
Tom Burnett & James Holt

What is the Big Power Switch Off and when's it happening?

With soaring bills and the cost of living crisis continuing to impact millions of families across the nation, the Big Power Off has been arranged and is set to take place tonight, Sunday (April 10). Energy bills are key part of the problems that homeowners are facing, as utility companies have announced price increases that will leave many people out of pocket.

The Government's energy strategy was published on Thursday as western countries wrestle with high energy prices and consider how to reduce reliance on Russian oil and gas, amid wider calls to end the fossil fuel era to tackle dangerous climate change - however some argue that this is not enough to help people struggling with soaring bills now.

In response, people across the UK are being encouraged to spent 10 minutes switching off all devices, according to Berkshire Live. Items that use electricity will be turned off to create an imbalance in the National Grid.

READ MORE Martin Lewis warns civil unrest 'isn’t far away' as cost of living crisis hits

What is Big Power Off and what time are things being switched off?

People who want to take part in the Big Power Off are being invited to switch off all devices, lights, appliances and other items that use electricity as long as it is safe to do so and won't put people at risk. Organisers hope to organise a ten minute blackout as people across the UK turn off the lights.

The organisers say the blackout is planned for 10pm on Sunday, with devices set to be turned back on from around 10.10pm.

Why are people planning the Big Power Off and what do they hope to achieve?

The Big Power Off, described by organisers as a 'non partisan' action, aims to create an imbalance in the National Grid this evening as the ten minute blackout is followed by everyone turning their lights and other devices back on. The overall aim is to force the Government and utility companies to take action to reduce overall energy costs.

Material circulating online demands immediate action is taken. Further Big Power Off actions are reportedly planned if action is not taken to tackle increased energy bills.

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