At What Times Is Electricity Cheaper? Tariffs and Ways to Save

What hours is electricity cheaper? Key information about tariffs

Before exploring the main electricity tariffs, it’s worth understanding the principle of TPA (Third Party Access), which forms the foundation of the current tariff system.

Since July 1, 2007, the energy market in Poland has been liberalized, meaning every consumer can choose their electricity supplier. This reform lowered energy prices and increased flexibility. Under TPA, the operator of the regional power grid is required to provide infrastructure access to electricity trading companies and to deliver the purchased energy. As a result, the transfer of electricity is based on two agreements: a standard sales contract and a distribution contract. While anyone can change their energy supplier, the grid operator (OSD) can only be changed by moving to a different location.

Market liberalization brought freedom but also structure. Today, the Energy Regulatory Office (URE) approves settlement rules only for consumers in Group G (households). Other user groups can, at least theoretically, negotiate prices individually.

Electricity tariff groups in Poland

The Polish energy market currently offers the following tariff groups:

• G – households
• A – consumers supplied from a high-voltage network
• B – consumers supplied from a medium-voltage network
• C – consumers supplied from a low-voltage network (excluding households and similar points of consumption)
• R – consumers billed under a lump-sum arrangement

Within each group, different tariff plans are available, and individual suppliers may offer slightly different options.

When is electricity cheaper in different tariffs?

Electricity tariffs for households determine that energy prices vary depending on the time of day. Consumers can choose from single-zone, dual-zone, or three-zone tariffs, as well as special variants.

G11 – Single-Zone Tariff

The simplest and most popular choice for households. The price of electricity is the same at all hours, regardless of the day of the week or time of consumption. There is no need to plan the use of energy-intensive appliances, as costs remain constant.

G12 – Dual-Zone Tariff

Electricity is cheaper at night and more expensive during the day (peak hours). Specific time ranges are defined by the local grid operator (OSD), but typically higher rates apply between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Weekends are billed the same as weekdays.

G12w – Dual-Zone Weekend Tariff

Similar to G12, but lower prices apply at night and on weekends, making it ideal for those who use appliances like water heaters or heating systems late at night or during weekends.

G13 – Three-Zone Tariff

Provides three different price periods (low, medium, and high). Grid operators usually divide the year into two seasons (e.g., October–March and April–September), with price hours shifting seasonally.

G12AS – Anti-Smog Tariff

A special dual-zone tariff designed to encourage the use of nighttime electricity (usually 10 p.m.–6 a.m.) for heating or charging electric vehicles. It offers lower prices at night, similar to G12, but with incentives for eco-friendly uses.

G11 tariff – are there cheaper hours?

In the G11 single-zone tariff, electricity costs the same during peak and off-peak times. Unlike dual- or three-zone tariffs, there are no cheaper hours.

Saving on electricity bills with time-of-use tariffs

The easiest way to save is to schedule the operation of high-consumption devices during off-peak hours (if using a multi-zone tariff). Examples include:

• Heat pumps
• Underfloor heating
• Water heaters
• EV chargers

Another option is to switch energy suppliers. While URE regulates maximum fees and distribution costs set by the grid operator, individual suppliers may offer lower energy prices or additional benefits, such as renewable energy guarantees or bundled services (e.g., photovoltaic installation with an energy storage system).

However, changing tariffs doesn’t always guarantee savings. Households where adults work standard day shifts and lack energy-intensive equipment may not benefit and could even pay more.

Other ways to cut electricity costs

Changing the tariff is just one method. Smart energy management remains crucial:

• Turn off unused devices.
• Teach children energy-saving habits.
• Buy energy-efficient appliances.
• Audit your electricity bills at least once a year.
• Adjust your grid connection (e.g., increase capacity if switching to electric heating).

One of the most effective long-term strategies is to install a photovoltaic (solar) system, combined with energy storage. Properly optimized solar power can cover the majority of a household’s or business’s electricity demand.

Should you switch to a cheaper tariff?

The decision to change your electricity tariff should be evaluated individually. If you’re unsure, consult your current energy supplier’s customer service or explore competitive offers. Platforms like Reo.pl guarantee low electricity prices, 100% renewable energy, and flexible packages—all with simple, fully online procedures.