Watching World Cup at 2am and doing laundry could cut energy bills
Research by E.ON Next suggests UK households could save millions by using time-of-use tariffs to run appliances during cheap overnight hours, coinciding with late-night World Cup matches.
As energy costs remain high, UK households are being urged to consider time-of-use electricity tariffs, which offer cheaper rates during off-peak hours. A study by E.ON Next highlights the potential savings during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with matches scheduled late at night or early morning.
E.ON Next's Smart Saver tariff has three rates: peak (4pm-7pm) at 39p per kWh, off-peak at 18p, and super off-peak (2am-5am) at 13p. The research compared the cost of running a washing machine — responsible for 14% of a typical household bill — during the cheapest rate on 35 match days against the government's price cap. The national saving would be £93 million.
Professor Jan Rosenow of the Environmental Change Institute noted that many people underestimate how the timing of appliance use affects bills. Shifting five daily activities (e.g., TV, ironing, tumble dryer) from peak to off-peak could save a household up to £230 a year.
EDF offers a similar dynamic tariff called FreePhase, with three bands: green (super off-peak, 11pm-6am), amber, and red (peak, 4-7pm). Customers are alerted a day in advance and can shift usage. EDF says FreePhase saved customers £152 in the first five months of 2026 compared to the standard variable tariff.
However, experts warn of drawbacks. Joanna O'Loan from the Energy Saving Trust says time-of-use tariffs work best for those with electric vehicles, heat pumps, or smart appliances. Without a smart meter, suppliers cannot track usage or apply correct rates. For many, higher daytime rates may cancel out savings.
Ben Gallizzi of Uswitch advises that while off-peak rates are low, peak rates (4-7pm) are expensive. Heavy daytime users may not benefit. He suggests fixed tariffs as an alternative — the cheapest fix from Outfox Energy is £1,611 a year, £251 below the July price cap of £1,862.
With the price cap rising in July, interest in time-of-use tariffs is growing, but consumers need to assess their own energy patterns.
