Off-peak electricity time explained

Off-peak electricity allows you to pay less for your energy by using it when demand on the National Grid is lower, typically during quieter periods. This guide explains how these tariffs work in the UK, how to find your specific off-peak hours, and how to maximise your savings by shifting your energy use.

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What is off-peak electricity?

Off-peak electricity refers to periods when energy is cheaper due to lower demand on the National Grid. Energy suppliers offer tariffs with different rates, encouraging households to use electricity during quieter times. This helps balance the grid and can significantly reduce your electricity bills.

Understanding the concept

The UK's energy grid experiences fluctuations in demand throughout the day. During peak hours, such as weekday evenings when most people are home, demand for electricity is high. Conversely, during off-peak hours, usually overnight, demand drops. Energy companies offer lower rates during these off-peak periods to incentivise consumption when the grid has spare capacity.

Benefits for your wallet and the grid

Shifting energy-intensive activities to off-peak times directly lowers your household electricity bills. Beyond personal savings, this practice also benefits the wider energy system. By spreading demand more evenly, it reduces strain on the National Grid, helps integrate renewable energy sources more effectively, and can contribute to a more stable and efficient energy supply for everyone.

How Time-of-Use tariffs work

Time-of-Use (ToU) tariffs offer different electricity rates depending on the time of day, week, or even season. These tariffs are designed to reflect the fluctuating wholesale cost of electricity, which is typically lower when demand is low.

Dual-rate tariffs explained

Dual-rate tariffs, such as Economy 7, are a common type of ToU tariff. They feature two distinct rates: a higher 'peak' rate for times of high demand and a lower 'off-peak' rate for periods of low demand. To benefit, you need to shift a significant portion of your electricity usage to the cheaper off-peak window.

Common off-peak periods

Off-peak periods vary by supplier and tariff. Dual-rate tariffs have peak and off-peak periods that depend on your meter configuration. It is crucial to check your specific tariff details for precise timings.

Finding your off-peak times

Knowing your exact off-peak hours is the first step to making significant savings. Assuming all dual-rate tariffs have the same timings is a common pitfall.

Checking with your energy supplier

Your energy supplier is the definitive source for your tariff's specific off-peak hours. This information is usually detailed on your bill, in your online account, or by contacting their customer service. If you're on a dual-rate tariff, your supplier will provide the exact start and end times for your cheaper electricity window.

Radio Teleswitch service (RTS) meters and their phase-out

Some older dual-rate tariffs relied on Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) meters. These meters used a longwave radio signal to switch between peak and off-peak rates. However, the RTS system is being phased out, with the industry-wide switch-off beginning on 30 June 2025. If you have an RTS meter, your current supplier will replace it with a smart meter, usually at no cost to you. Once your meter is upgraded, you'll be able to access modern smart tariffs.

Maximising savings with off-peak electricity

A typical UK home uses around 2,700 kWh of electricity per year, so there's ample opportunity to save by optimising usage during off-peak times.

Shifting high-usage appliances

Strategically shifting when you use energy-intensive appliances is key. Consider running your washing machine, tumble dryer, or dishwasher overnight. If you have an electric immersion heater, programming it to heat water during off-peak hours can also lead to substantial savings.

Smart home integration and automation

Smart home devices can automate this shift for you. Smart plugs, for example, can be programmed to switch on appliances during your off-peak window. Many modern appliances also come with built-in timers or smart features that integrate with your energy tariff, allowing for effortless optimisation.

Electric vehicle (EV) charging

Electric vehicle (EV) charging is one of the most significant energy demands in a modern home. Charging your EV during off-peak hours can drastically reduce your running costs. Many EV chargers and vehicles can be programmed to start charging automatically when electricity is cheapest, turning your EV into a powerful tool for energy savings.

Smart meters and off-peak tariffs

Smart meters are fundamental to accessing the full benefits of modern variable tariffs.

The role of smart meters in variable tariffs

Smart meters automatically send your energy readings to your supplier, eliminating the need for manual submissions. Crucially, they enable suppliers to offer a wider range of Time-of-Use tariffs, including those with more granular pricing periods than traditional Economy 7. This real-time data allows for more accurate billing and helps you monitor your usage patterns to identify further savings.

Eligibility for dual-rate tariffs

To be eligible for most modern dual-rate tariffs, you typically need either a smart meter or a multi-register (dual-rate) dumb meter. If you have an older, single-rate meter, upgrading to a smart meter is usually a prerequisite for accessing these more flexible and potentially cheaper tariffs. Your energy supplier can arrange a free smart meter installation.

Making a power play with Fuse Energy

Fuse Energy empowers you to take control of your energy costs and usage, transforming energy management into a 'power play'.

Fuse's approach to smart energy management

Fuse Energy offers dual-rate tariffs designed to help you make the most of off-peak electricity. Our app provides the capability to manage your energy smarter, giving you clear insights into your consumption patterns. We challenge the 'use less' narrative by enabling smarter, more abundant use of energy during off-peak times, allowing you to protect yourself from shocks and make energy work for you.

24/7 support for your energy journey

Navigating energy tariffs and optimising your usage can sometimes be complex. Fuse Energy offers 24/7 human customer support to help you understand and optimise your off-peak usage and tariff benefits. Our team is always available to assist you in making the most of your energy plan.

Conclusion

Understanding and utilising off-peak electricity times is a powerful way for UK households to reduce energy bills and contribute to a more efficient grid. By identifying your specific off-peak hours, shifting energy-intensive tasks, and leveraging smart meter technology, you can make a significant difference to your household budget. Embrace the power to play with your energy and take control of your consumption.

Ready to take control of your energy usage and bills? Fuse Energy offers clear pricing, real-time usage data through our app, and 24/7 human customer support to help you make the most of off-peak electricity. Switching is quick and easy, so you can start saving today. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy and discover a smarter way to manage your home energy. You can also learn more about our mission to make energy abundant by clicking here.