The main difference is that equivents happen throughout the year and DFS events are only happening between November 2022 - March 2023 & are only open to smart meter owners.
Number of events
We typically run over 7 equivents every month. By comparison, the National Grid Demand Flexibility Scheme (DFS) will run a maximum of 12 tests between 1 November 2022 and 31 March 2023, with an average of 2 events per month.
PLEASE NOTE: If you have a smart meter with half-hourly data enabled you can take part in the National Grid DFS scheme with equiwatt and our non-DFS-aligned events too!
That means you can get rewarded for using less energy at peak times all year round!
Eligibility for events
To participate in the National Grid DFS, you must have a smart meter with half-hourly data enabled.
By contrast, to take part in non-DFS-aligned equivents, users can take part even if they don't have a smart meter by verifying their MPAN and taking part automatically via smart devices such as smart plugs and electric vehicles. Learn more about that here.
Reasons for running events
The National Grid's Demand Flexibility Service (DFS) has been developed to enable them to reduce stress on the grid and access additional flexibility when the national demand is at its highest, especially during peak winter days.
We also run non-DFS-aligned equivents to reduce stress on the grid. However, they can also be run for other reasons. For example, to respond to national grid requirements or to help solve a network problem at a local level, to avoid the use of dirty carbon emitting peaker plants or help users avoid using energy when it is costly.