The UK’s biggest household energy supplier is urging customers to cut their electricity use this week as the country prepares for its deepest solar eclipse in almost 30 years. Octopus Energy has asked customers to avoid using washing machines and dishwashers between 6pm and 8pm this Wednesday, when the moon is expected to block up to 95% of the sun over parts of Britain. “Our customers simply select what hours suit them and reap the benefits of a more flexible energy system on their terms.” Consumers warned against using ‘knock-off’ glassesOnly special solar eclipse glasses that are ISO 12312-2 certified for the safest eye protection should be used to view the eclipse. Following the 1999 total solar eclipse, the Royal College of Ophthalmologists reported around 70 cases of people experiencing vision problems after watching the eclipse.