Eirgrid customers who reduce their energy use when electricity demand is high will be rewarded through a new 'Power Off & Save' programme.

The new pilot scheme aims to manage the grid during periods of high demand.

Electric Ireland will recruit 1,500 customers to take part in the programme over the next 18 months. Those who sign up will be asked to turn off appliances for 30 minutes in their home on ten occasions over the duration of the programme. Customers will be rewarded with up to €100 over the course of the programme based on the level of participation.

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EirGrid Chief Executive Fintan Slye said: "We are delighted to be one of the first national grid operators in Europe to trial this innovative programme for residential customers. We know the system of managing demand works in industry, as it is already in operation for business customers. We believe it will also work for residential customers, helping them to play a role in managing usage for the benefit of the grid and the environment."

(CD)