Irish homes and firms will be asked to cut peak-time power use to avoid winter blackouts

Ireland's drive to cut peak-time power demand will range from encouraging big firms and households to use off-peak power, down to cutting cooking times. Stock picture: iStock

Ireland’s 2m homes and small businesses are to be asked to avoid peak-time use of electricity in order to avoid blackouts this winter.

While Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe said the Government does not anticipate energy shortages this winter, drastic steps are now being taken as the network struggles to cope with demand.