Zeitnutzungstarife

Zeitnutzungstarife, often translated as time-of-use tariffs or time-of-day pricing, are a type of electricity pricing scheme where the cost of electricity varies depending on the time of day and, sometimes, the season. This approach is designed to reflect the actual cost of generating and supplying electricity, which fluctuates throughout the day based on demand. During peak hours, when electricity demand is highest, the cost of generation is typically greater due to the need to activate more expensive power plants. Conversely, during off-peak hours, when demand is lower, electricity is generally cheaper.

The primary goal of Zeitnutzungstarife is to incentivize consumers to shift their electricity usage away from peak demand periods and towards off-peak times. This can be achieved through various mechanisms, such as higher prices during peak hours and lower prices during off-peak hours. By doing so, utilities can better manage the overall load on the electricity grid, reducing the need for expensive and often less environmentally friendly peak power generation. Consumers who can adjust their consumption patterns, such as running appliances like dishwashers or washing machines during off-peak hours, can potentially lower their electricity bills. Smart meters are often a prerequisite for implementing these tariffs effectively, as they allow for precise measurement of electricity consumption at different times.