Application for increasing the kWh limit in 2024 – what you need to know?

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When should you submit an application to increase the kWh limit in 2024?

The basic electricity consumption limit for all households in 2024 is set at 1500 kWh. This limit is granted automatically, and no application is required. For this threshold, the electricity rate is set at 0.62 PLN gross per kilowatt-hour (50 groszy net). The limit is assigned separately for each point of electricity consumption (PPE). If you have several properties, each one will have a separate PPE, so the limit for each property will be calculated separately. The same applies if several PPEs exist under one address. The 1500 kWh limit also applies to those who are in the process of building a single-family house and are using "construction electricity."

The applicable regulations allow for the increase of the kWh limit for specific groups of people who, by default, need more electricity to function normally:

• 1800 kWh is granted to individuals who live with someone who has been granted a disability certificate for:
  • a significant or moderate degree of disability;
  • incapacity for independent living;
  • total incapacity for work;
  • disability (for individuals under 16 years of age);
• 2000 kWh is granted to two groups of consumers:
  • individuals holding a Large Family Card;
  • people running a farm.

For businesses, there is no kWh consumption limit, but they can benefit from a protective mechanism allowing them to purchase electricity at a lower rate (693 PLN/MWh). This solution is aimed at micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises that are not part of capital groups and do not employ more than 250 people. This is a special case, as businesses are generally not protected from energy price changes in the same way as consumers.

How to correctly fill out the application for increasing the kWh limit?

The statement to increase the kWh limit can be downloaded from the website of any electricity supplier. It is a multi-page form, but filling it out is not particularly complicated. The top section of the form contains the identification and contact details of the final consumer, i.e., the person to whom the electricity bill is issued. The next piece of information is the electricity consumption point number – which can also be found on the bill. The final part contains declarations that entitle the applicant to benefit from the increased kWh limit. These should only be marked when the applicant has the right to the extended discount. Consumers can also submit the application via the mObywatel app.

It is important to remember that the declarations are made under the penalty of perjury, meaning that one cannot attempt to "claim" a larger discount than the one actually entitled. In such cases, the electricity supplier has the right to notify the authorities about the commission of an offense.

Documents required for the application to increase the kWh limit

To benefit from the basic kilowatt-hour limit, an agricultural household does not need to submit any applications or declarations. This is only necessary when applying for an increase in the kWh limit. Depending on the consumer group, different documents will be required:

• For people with disabilities, a declaration along with the disability certificate must be provided;
• Farmers should submit a declaration along with a copy of the decision from the tax authority regarding the agricultural tax for the previous year;
• Individuals holding a Large Family Card should submit a declaration along with a copy of the Card.

For businesses seeking to benefit from the electricity price freeze, a declaration of eligibility must be submitted, in accordance with the relevant regulations. The declaration should be signed by the person managing the business, such as a board member.

The process of considering the application for increasing the kWh limit – what is worth knowing?

People who were granted the increased kWh limit last year do not need to submit a new declaration. The situation is different for those energy consumers whose circumstances have changed, and they may now qualify for preferential electricity purchase conditions, such as obtaining farmer status or receiving a Large Family Card. In such cases, the application should be submitted within 30 days of the change.

The process of reviewing the application is efficient. The person who provided their contact details will receive confirmation from the electricity supplier that the application has been accepted. It is also worth mentioning that limits do not accumulate or roll over from year to year. This means that there is no need to submit multiple applications if the individual qualifies for two or more discounts. It is sufficient to provide the documentation entitling the applicant to the higher discount.

Consequences of not submitting the application for increasing the kWh limit

Exceeding the electricity consumption limits does not mean that prices will suddenly skyrocket uncontrollably. They will, however, increase, but only to the maximum level of 693 PLN per MWh. Is there anything that can be done to lower electricity prices? Absolutely!

First of all, consider investing in photovoltaics. Silicon panels produce electricity from solar energy, which is practically free and can power both small home networks and business infrastructure. To further optimize its operation, you can supplement the photovoltaic system with energy storage devices that accumulate excess electricity generated. Both businesses and households can benefit from photovoltaics.

Another way to reduce electricity bills is by installing energy-efficient devices and LED lighting. Educating employees about daily energy-saving habits is also important.

Another idea is to  change the electricity supplier to one that offers lower prices or more favorable conditions for electricity delivery. This is a good time for businesses to consider signing a PPA agreement with an electricity producer from renewable energy sources. This way, businesses benefit in several ways – they reduce electricity bills, acquire green energy, and meet ESG goals.

It is expected that electricity prices will continue to rise in the coming years. Currently, the government's detailed plans for protecting the energy market are unknown, but it is highly likely that some form of protection for both individual and corporate consumers will be available. It is worth monitoring changes in regulations and, regardless of this, gradually implementing technological solutions that help reduce electricity prices, regardless of market fluctuations.

If you need support in developing a plan to increase your company's energy efficiency, contact us. We will help you choose the right solutions tailored to your business's specifics and guide you through all the formalities step by step.