Thousands of EDF Energy customers across Britain have the opportunity to slash their electricity bills by earning 'free electricity' on specific Sundays at the start of 2026. The supplier is continuing its popular 'Sunday Saver Challenge', designed to reward households that adjust their daily power consumption habits.
How the Sunday Saver Challenge Works
The initiative is straightforward: eligible customers who move their electricity usage away from the busy weekday peak hours of 4 pm to 7 pm can earn free electricity for the following Sunday. The more energy a household shifts to off-peak times, the greater the reward, which can range from four to 16 hours of free power.
Rich Hughes, Director of Retail at EDF, stated: "January is a time when many people look for new ways to save after the festive period, so we're delighted to resume our Sunday Saver challenge." He added that over 210,000 customers have already benefited, simultaneously reducing their carbon footprint and helping to balance the national grid.
Key Dates and Participation Requirements
EDF has confirmed that the earned free electricity can be used on four Sundays in early 2026. The exact dates are:
- January 18, 2026
- January 25, 2026
- February 1, 2026
- February 8, 2026
To take part, customers must have a functioning electricity smart meter and agree to half-hourly readings. Registration for the latest challenge opened and closed on January 4, 2026, with the scheme going live on Monday, January 5. Participants can track their progress via the Energy Hub in their EDF 'MyAccount'.
A Timely Help with Rising Energy Costs
This scheme launches against a backdrop of rising energy costs for millions. Ofgem's price cap saw a 2% increase between October and December, followed by a further 0.2% rise from January 1, 2026. This adjustment means a typical dual-fuel household paying by Direct Debit now faces an annual bill of around £1,758.
EDF suggests that earning free electricity can be achieved through simple behavioural changes. Recommendations include charging devices outside peak times, running the dishwasher in the morning, or doing batch cooking at the weekend. The company encourages customers to use the Energy Hub to identify their high-usage periods and monitor their carbon and financial savings.
