Using electricity at night can save money: ACM wants power rates to depend on the time of day
The Dutch Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) is proposing time-based electricity transport tariffs to reduce peak grid pressure. By encouraging consumers to use electricity during off-peak hours, the plan aims to create capacity for 700,000 extra homes while lowering energy costs for many households.
The Dutch Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) has proposed a new tariff system for electricity transport costs that fluctuates based on the time of day. Under this model, households would pay more for electricity during peak hours, particularly in the early evening when grid usage is highest, and significantly less during quiet, off-peak periods like the night. The initiative aims to alleviate grid congestion and avoid expensive infrastructure projects like digging up streets. By incentivizing consumers to shift heavy usage, such as running dishwashers or charging electric vehicles, to off-peak hours, network operators believe peak load can be reduced by 10 percent. This capacity shift could potentially allow for the connection of 700,000 additional homes without major grid upgrades. While the change only applies to transport costs, approximately 60 percent of households, especially those in smaller residences, are expected to see their annual energy bills decrease by up to 200 euros.
Based on reporting by ad. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.
