Molly Ayala
In Ireland, the cost of electricity varies depending on the time of day. Many suppliers offer a cheaper rate at night, encouraging people to use more energy during off-peak hours. For example, Electric Ireland offers a Night Boost plan with cheaper rates from 11 pm to 7 am, and even cheaper rates from 2 am to 4 am. However, the potential savings depend on the percentage of electricity used at night, and there may be a higher standing charge for a night saver meter. Shifting energy usage to off-peak hours can lead to significant savings, especially for those with electric heating systems or electric vehicles.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheaper electricity at night in Ireland | Yes, if you have a night meter and a "Night Saver" tariff. |
| Night-time rates | 21.55c-22.8c per kWh |
| Daytime rates | 43.68c-46.23c per kWh |
| Savings | Up to €274 annually with 50% night-time usage |
| Conditions | More than 30% of electricity usage must be at night to make any savings. |
| Smart meters | Can account for daylight savings, but may not adjust for clock changes. |
| Drawbacks | Higher standing charge for a night saver meter; advice against running appliances while sleeping. |
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Night-time tariffs
The NightSaver Tariff, offered by some suppliers in Ireland, provides a lower rate per kWh during the night, resulting in potential savings. However, to maximise savings, more than 30% of electricity usage must occur at night. For instance, with 40% night-time usage, annual savings can reach €175, while 50% night-time usage can lead to savings of up to €274.
It is important to note that the standing charge for a night saver meter is typically €50-60 higher than a normal meter, and adapting energy usage patterns may be necessary to take advantage of these tariffs. Additionally, smart meters may not automatically adjust for daylight savings, requiring manual adjustments to timers to optimise savings.
To determine if night-time tariffs are suitable, individuals should consider their energy consumption habits, lifestyle, and the feasibility of adapting to off-peak usage. Consulting with electricity suppliers and reviewing specific tariff plan details is essential for making an informed decision.
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Smart meters
Smart meter plans can help you save money on your energy bills and give you more insight into your energy usage. For instance, Energia's "Energy Insights" tool helps you understand your energy usage patterns by providing detailed data on your consumption. This allows you to identify areas where you can reduce energy use and make informed decisions to optimise your electricity consumption and reduce costs.
However, there are some disadvantages to smart meters. Smart tariffs can be higher than average at peak times, and as they connect via mobile signal, there may be issues with lag in certain areas. Additionally, once you switch to a smart tariff, you cannot move back to a standard plan.
Overall, smart meters can be a great way to reduce your energy costs and carbon footprint, but it is important to consider your usage patterns and adapt your energy habits to fully benefit from a smart meter plan.
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Peak hours
The cheapest time to use electricity in Ireland depends on various factors, such as having a smart meter installed, your electricity supplier, peak hours, the availability of free electricity options, and the specific tariff plan you are on.
Electricity suppliers in Ireland offer different pricing structures and plans, including the standard tariff and the Night Saver tariff. The standard tariff charges a flat rate for electricity usage, regardless of the time of day. On the other hand, the Night Saver tariff offers lower rates during designated off-peak hours, typically from 11 pm to 7 am, with even cheaper rates during the early morning hours, such as from 2 am to 4 am.
The Night Saver tariff can result in significant cost savings for individuals or households who can shift a substantial portion of their electricity usage to off-peak hours. For example, those with electric heating systems, electric vehicle charging requirements, or the ability to schedule energy-intensive tasks during the off-peak period can benefit the most from this tariff.
However, it's important to note that the standing charge for a Night Saver meter is typically €50-60 higher than a normal meter, and to make meaningful savings, more than 30% of electricity usage must occur at night. Additionally, individuals may need to adapt their energy usage habits and perform certain tasks at night, such as running the dishwasher or washing machine, which may not be convenient or feasible for everyone.
To summarise, while the Night Saver tariff can offer cost savings, it requires a certain level of flexibility in energy usage habits and may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals should review their specific tariff plan, energy consumption patterns, and lifestyle to determine if the Night Saver tariff could result in cost savings for their particular situation.
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Free electricity options
Electricity in Ireland is not automatically cheaper at night or during off-peak times. However, there are a few options for getting free electricity or reducing your electricity bill. Here are some ways to get free electricity in Ireland:
Night Saver Tariff
You can contact your electricity supplier and request a free installation of a night rate electricity meter. This will allow you to take advantage of cheaper electricity rates at night, which can help you save on your utility bills. However, you will need to shift at least 27% of your average electricity consumption to the night time to benefit from the cheaper rates. Additionally, there is an additional fee added to your standing charge for having a night rate electricity meter, which can range from €45 to €50.
Smart Tariff
If you have a smart meter installed, you can opt for a smart tariff, which offers lower rates for electricity at night and during off-peak times. However, the daytime unit rates on a smart tariff may be slightly more expensive than the standard tariff rates. To save money on a smart tariff, you will need to switch some of your daytime electricity usage to the hours between 11 pm and 8 am.
Electric Ireland Plans
Electric Ireland offers various plans that can help you save money on your electricity bill. One option is the Home Electric+ Weekender plan, which provides unlimited free electricity between 8 am and 11 pm on either Saturday or Sunday every weekend. This plan is ideal for busy families or those who prefer to do chores on the weekend. Another option is the 24-hour plan, which includes a super low Night Boost rate from 2 am to 4 am, perfect for those who can adjust their energy consumption to take advantage of the lower rates.
Free Electricity Allowance
The Department of Social Protection in Ireland offers a Free Electricity Allowance of €35.00 per month, which appears as a credit on your Electric Ireland electricity bill. To apply for this allowance, you must have an Electric Ireland account in your own name.
Solar Power
If you have solar panels installed, you can generate your own free electricity during the day and store any excess power in batteries to be used at night. This option requires an initial investment in solar panels and batteries but can provide significant long-term savings on your electricity bill.
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Immersion heating
An immersion heater is an electric water heater contained within a hot water cylinder. It works by passing electricity through a metal coil to heat the surrounding water. The metal element heats the water directly in the tank, with the hot water rising to the top. They are useful for when you need a top-up of hot water in addition to the water heated by your home's heating system.
Immersion heaters have a reputation for being expensive, and heating water is generally costly. It costs roughly €1.30 per day to heat a full cylinder of 120 litres, and it takes about 2.5 hours to heat. However, there are ways to lower the cost of using an immersion heater. One way is to insulate the cylinder with a lagging jacket, which can be purchased at a local hardware store. This will keep water hotter for longer, reducing the need to use the immersion heater as often. Another way to reduce costs is to use a timer to avoid overusing the heater and forgetting to turn it off. Fitting a timer will cost around €45, and if you have a night saver meter plan, you can set your immersion heater to heat water during the night when rates are cheaper.
If you heat water with an electric immersion element only, you could consider installing a NightSaver meter to take advantage of off-peak rates. A NightSaver meter is designed to save you money by encouraging you to use more electricity at night when there is surplus capacity. There is no cost to install a NightSaver meter, but it will cost you if you decide to revert to a regular meter. With a NightSaver meter, you could cut the cost of heating your water in half, saving you around €250 a year.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, electricity is cheaper at night in Ireland, but only if you have a specific tariff or meter.
The Night Saver tariff or the Night Boost plan.
The Night Saver tariff offers a lower rate of 22.8c per kWh at night compared to 46.23c per kWh during the day.
The cheapest time to use electricity in Ireland is between 11 pm and 8 am.
Using electricity at night can help reduce electricity costs for consumers, reduce peak demand on the electricity grid, and positively impact the environment.
