Better use of electricity 'could save consumers £8 billion a year'

Britain could save £8 billion a year and slash its carbon footprint by using electricity better, a new report says.

The National Infrastructure Commission said a "smart power revolution" which improves the storage of power could transform the energy landscape.

Its report, Smart Power, looks into ways the UK can better balance supply and demand in the energy market.

It said Britain should connect more of its network to mainland Europe and store energy better.

This would save consumers up to £8bn a year by 2030, help meet the UK's 2050 carbon targets, and secure Britain's energy supply for generations, the report finds.

It says Britain should become a world leader in storing electricity, and make full use of demand flexibility by improving regulation, and informing the public of its benefits, the report adds.

Lord Adonis, chairman of the commission, said: "Quality infrastructure is fundamental to our quality of life. Better decision making, clearer planning, and more efficient and timely delivery can help create the world class infrastructure this country needs to succeed.

"To radically improve, we have to do more than simply adapt to a changing world - we must shape that change to our advantage. The developments in our electricity sector are a case in point.

"Our existing power stations are closing down and their replacements will be radically different as we decarbonise supply to reduce emissions.

"This represents an enormous challenge, but it also leaves the UK uniquely placed to benefit from three exciting innovations set to transform the global electricity market - interconnection, storage and demand flexibility.

"The UK can lead the world in harnessing these innovations, bringing jobs and investment into the country and cutting bills for consumers."

He added: "If we get this right, a smart power revolution could save consumers £8 billion a year."