When is the cheapest time to use electricity?

Discover the cheapest and most expensive times to use electricity in the UK, why this happens, and how time-of-use tariffs can help you save.
  • Posted by Emily Jade
  • 5 min read (721 words)
  • Last updated 15 Jan, 2025

As energy costs remain high, adopting smart energy habits is crucial. By understanding electricity price trends and making the most of off-peak hours using our advanced energy-saving products, you can significantly cut running costs.

Why do electricity prices vary during the day?

Electricity prices fluctuate based on national demand. Suppliers purchase electricity from generators such as wind farms and gas plants, with costs rising and falling in sync with usage. There is usually least demand overnight due to reduced residential and industrial consumption, so electricity is cheaper. Peak electricity pricing is generally 5pm to 8pm, when families return home and energy usage spikes.

Energy providers typically offer flat-rate tariffs based on the energy price cap set by Ofgem, however time-of-use tariffs let you capitalise on these daily price variations. With our energy-saving solutions, you can store cheaper electricity for use during peak hours.

Maximise savings with HeatElectric

We supply and install advanced energy saving systems designed to make the most of cheaper electricity rates.

Our Qcells solar systems feature home batteries with SAMSUNG cell technology. Capture solar energy during the day and store excess in your home battery system for use when rates are higher at peak times. You could use this stored electricity to power your ELKATHERM radiators, heating your home efficiently and affordably.

If you live in a property that can’t have solar panels installed, such as flats and apartments, we can still install Qcells home batteries, allowing you to store energy using cheaper, off-peak rates.

Our range of Sunamp Thermino heat batteries allow you to store energy using off-peak electricity and use it to heat your water during peak times.

How to use off-peak electricity effectively

  • Charge your batteries for less

Make the most of off-peak rates by charging your Qcells and Sunamp batteries during off-peak hours for maximum savings. You could even sell this energy back to your supplier during peak times.

  • Make the most of the cheaper off-peak rates

Try to use appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, and tumble dryers during the cheaper, off-peak times. Many modern appliances feature built in timers or app based controls to make this even easier.

  • Invest in smart technology

Using smart plugs and extension leads allows you to automate device usage, helping ensure you don’t waste energy.

  • Energy-efficient heating

Upgrade to ELKATHERM electric radiators to heat your home for less. ELKATHERM radiators boast a German A++ energy efficiency rating, and are available in a huge range of shapes, sizes, colour options, and controls.

Homes with a full HeatElectric system could save hundreds of pounds a year by using off-peak energy tariffs. Most UK suppliers offer these tariffs. Here's a guide we've published that goes into more detail.

Is a time of use tariff right for me?

Most homes across the UK can access time-of-use tariffs if they have a smart meter installed. Signing up is often simple, just contact your preferred supplier.

The future of flexible tariffs

As the UK moves towards net-zero, flexible tariffs are likely to become more popular. By encouraging off-peak energy use, they’ll help balance grid demand and support renewable energy adoption. With HeatElectric’s Qcells solar systems, Sunamp heat batteries, and ELKATHERM electric radiators, you can stay ahead of the curve while reducing your energy costs and lowering your carbon footprint.

Ready to start saving? Get in touch today to find out more about our range of modern energy saving products and to book your free, no obligation home survey.

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