Maximising Renewable Energy: Peak and off-peak energy

For Australians to become more sustainable we need to start aligning our energy consumption with renewable energy availability. By adjusting the timing of our high-power appliance usage and capitalising on off-peak hours, we can have a positive impact on the environment while potentially saving money. The concept of peak and off-peak energy usage, shows the advantages and pitfalls of running high-power appliances during the day and night. Many energy retailers provide options for peak and off-peak energy usage but one does it better than most.

Understanding Peak and Off-Peak Energy:

Electricity demand varies throughout the day, with certain periods experiencing higher demand than others. These high-demand periods are known as peak hours, typically occurring in the late afternoon and early evening when households return from work and school. Conversely, off-peak hours are characterised by lower electricity demand, often during late at night, middle of the day and early morning.

Maximising Renewable Energy:

One effective way to maximise renewable energy usage is by shifting the operation of high-power appliances, such as washing machines or dryers, to daytime hours. Here’s how it works:

Renewable energy sources like solar and wind power are typically more abundant during the day. By running your high-power appliances when renewable energy production is at its peak, you can ensure that more of the energy you consume comes from cleaner sources.

Running high-power appliances during off-peak hours can alleviate stress on the electricity grid during peak times when everyone uses energy simultaneously. By spreading out your energy usage throughout the day, you help contribute to a more stable and efficient energy supply.

How does it help you save?

Using energy during off-peak hours often comes with cost benefits. Many energy providers offer time-of-use tariffs, which provide cheaper electricity rates during off-peak times. By taking advantage of these lower rates, you can potentially reduce your energy bills significantly.

Our partner Amber is an innovative energy retailer that aims to provide its customers with access to cheaper energy prices during off-peak times. By utilising advanced technology and data, Amber offers real-time pricing that reflects the wholesale energy market. This means that when renewable energy generation is high and demand is low, you can benefit from lower electricity prices – It’s a bit like having virtual solar panels on your roof and a wind turbine in your backyard!

By joining Amber, you not only have the opportunity to save money but also actively support the use of renewable energy. With their transparent and user-friendly platform, you can monitor energy prices and adjust your usage accordingly, ensuring you make the most of off-peak periods.

Optimising your energy usage throughout the day can have a significant impact on both the environment and your wallet. By running high-power appliances during daylight hours when renewable energy is plentiful, you contribute to a cleaner energy mix and reduce the strain on the electricity grid during peak times. Additionally, by leveraging energy providers like Amber, who offer cheaper energy prices during off-peak hours, you can maximise your savings while supporting the transition to a sustainable energy future. It’s a win-win situation that allows you to make a positive difference while enjoying the financial benefits of smarter energy consumption.