Octopus Energy is offering the reward through a special scheme tied to the upcoming celestial event on Wednesday, August 12.
This day will mark the UK’s fullest solar eclipse for the next 54 years, with over 90% of the sun set to be obscured by the moon.
The reward is available to customers who reduce their energy use between 6pm and 8pm, the period when the eclipse will reach its peak and solar output will fall.
Rebecca Dibb-Simkin, chief customer officer at Octopus Energy, said: “Many of us will be looking up at the sky on Wednesday evening to experience this once-in-a-generation event.
“But as the Sun disappears, so will some of Britain’s solar generation, just as demand peaks.
“By shifting everyday tasks like the washing machine or dishwasher until later, households can help reduce the need for gas power stations – and earn rewards for doing their bit.”
Customers signed up to Octopus’ rewards programme, Octoplus, and its Savings Sessions will qualify for the offer.
Those who use less energy during the two-hour window will receive one hour of free electricity on Sunday, August 16.
Octopus is also hosting an eclipse solar competition for the chance to get free solar panels installed in your home – or £12,000 in cash.
To be in with a chance to win, you must share a photo on Instagram, Facebook, X, or Bluesky showing what you did during the eclipse instead of being inside at home.
Then tag @OctopusEnergy and include the hashtag #OctoEclipse in the post caption.
How to watch the solar eclipse safely
Anyone planning to watch an eclipse must never look directly at the Sun without certified eclipse glasses or suitable solar filters, even when most of the Sun is covered.
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Official advice from the government states: “Ordinary sunglasses – no matter how dark – do not provide adequate protection for viewing a solar eclipse.
“They reduce glare, making it feel more comfortable to look at the Sun for longer, while still allowing harmful solar radiation to reach the retina.
“Never use regular sunglasses to look at the Sun during an eclipse.”
Will you be aiming to reduce your energy usage during the solar eclipse? Let us know in the comments.
