Time zones in energy tariffs divide the day into periods in which different electricity prices apply. The G11 tariff is a single-zone tariff, which means a fixed price 24 hours a day. In turn, the G12 tariff divides the day into two zones: peak and off-peak. During peak hours (usually from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.) prices are higher, while at night (from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.) lower rates apply.
We currently have three tariffs available:
G12, which covers time zones where energy prices are lower, e.g. at night and on weekends. This is beneficial for people who can shift a significant part of their electricity consumption outside peak hours, e.g. by programming a washing machine or heat pump.
G12w, which offers conditions similar to G12, but also includes lower prices on weekends.
G13, i.e. a three-zone tariff in which there are three different prices during the day (e.g. more expensive peak hours, cheaper off-peak hours and the cheapest, night or weekend ones).
How to shift energy consumption to cheaper hours?
Using zone tariffs allows you to shift energy consumption to cheaper hours (e.g. laundry, dishwashing, charging an electric car). So we get lower bills when we properly manage the time we use electrical appliances.
Unfortunately, many consumers still do not know that such tariffs exist or do not understand how they can benefit from them. This requires planning and changing daily habits (e.g. more activity at night), which can be burdensome. Not everyone has smart meters or devices that allow for automatic energy consumption management.
Appropriate calculation is also important, because in some cases the difference in prices may be too small to make it worth changing habits. Additionally, for many people, work, school and other responsibilities prevent them from shifting their energy use to the night or weekend.
— The right tariff can significantly impact our savings. However, when choosing tariffs, it is important to take into account primarily the operating mode of our household, which usually translates into the energy consumption profile. It is worth considering what times we are most likely to be at home and when we use various devices. This will allow for cost optimization, but also conscious use of energy – explains Sebastian Janda, president of the management board of PGE Obrót.
The CEO reminds that from August 2024, customers can also use dynamic tariffs. This is a relatively new solution which, unlike traditional fixed-rate tariffs, is based on changes in energy prices on the Polish Power Exchange. So this is not a solution for everyone. To reap its benefits, active energy consumption management and flexibility are needed – to actually save, customers must be ready to adapt their activities to the tariff – e.g. shifting consumption to cheaper hours.
Tariffs for companies – savings and image
Choosing the right energy tariff is crucial, especially for enterprises that want to reduce operating costs. Business-specific tariffs, such as C12, allow for savings, especially when companies shift consumption to night hours. Businesses can schedule equipment in a way that minimizes energy costs and obtain better rates and additional services, which improves financial stability.
Tariffs can be selected according to a company's specific energy needs, increasing efficiency. Tariffs with renewable energy are also available, which not only allow you to save, but also improve the company's image and may attract customers who value ecological solutions. We must also remember that lower energy costs translate into greater competitiveness on the market.
Remember that energy suppliers often offer energy audits and consulting, which helps to further optimize energy consumption. They allow you to precisely determine the moments of highest energy consumption and identify areas for improvement. For example, the use of building automation systems to manage lighting or air conditioning can significantly impact energy efficiency. Additionally, the use of smart technologies, such as smart meters and energy management systems, can increase the energy efficiency of companies. Thanks to them, companies can monitor their energy consumption in real time, which allows them to respond faster to changes in tariffs and optimize consumption.
Experts emphasize that we can soon expect changes in the energy tariff system in Poland, which will be adapted to the growing importance of renewable energy sources and the changing needs of consumers. Perhaps there will be even more flexible tariffs that will better match actual energy demand.
