Octopus Energy has debuted OctopusFlex, a new, flexible time-of-use plan that rewards Texans for using electricity when the grid is quiet, clean, and cheap.
By using smart devices like EV chargers and smart thermostats, OctopusFlex is meant to automatically optimize energy use during the most cost-effective and climate-friendly hours without disrupting daily routines. During the hours between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., customers can access lower rates and major savings.
“This is about more than off-peak discounts. It’s about shifting the entire energy experience to work better for people and the planet,” said Nick Chaset, CEO of Octopus Energy US. “We’re giving customers the power to save money while actively supporting a cleaner, more balanced grid.”
Utilities in the Midwestern United States are tackling tough challenges posed by increasingly extreme weather, aging infrastructure, and an ongoing race to integrate renewable energy while maintaining grid reliability. State decarbonization laws add complexity to the process of bringing power generation online, and as utilities transition from fossil fuels to cleaner alternatives, they are simultaneously managing supply chain issues, labor shortages, and new cybersecurity risks. Service providers must modernize their infrastructure to satisfy increasing demand while keeping pricing affordable, which is a tall task for any-sized utility.
A new regional DISTRIBUTECH event, DTECH Midwest, will provide a unique opportunity to dive into the specific issues faced by the power industry in Midwest and includes tailored content for municipal and cooperative utilities.
Registration is now open! Join us from July 14-16, 2025, in Minneapolis, MN. Learn more about what you can expect here.
OctopusFlex offers discounted electricity during off-peak hours every night. And when summer brings more solar energy to the grid, customers can get even lower rates.
“Time-of-use is one of the best and easiest ways to help customers save on their energy bill and be compensated for being flexible with when they use power,” said Daniel Kirwin, Product Manager at Octopus Energy. “We couldn’t be more excited to launch our time-of-use rate here in Texas, adding a new option for customers’ flexibility journeys.”
By shifting demand away from peak hours, OctopusFlex is meant to help prevent blackouts during Texas’ hottest months, make room for more clean energy on the grid, and cut costs for customers “without sacrificing comfort.”
To make the most of OctopusFlex, Octopus Energy recommends its customers pre-cool their homes in the morning to coast through the heat; run their washer, dryer, and dishwasher overnight; and plug in their EV after 10 PM and wake up to a full charge. Additionally, using smart plugs and timers can help automate these power moves.
