What Is Off Peak Electricity? Save Smart on Energy Costs
Electricity prices in Australia can vary depending on the time of day you use power, but not everyone knows this, or takes advantage of it. If you’re wondering, what is off peak electricity, here’s the short answer: it’s when electricity is cheaper, usually late at night or early in the morning.
In this guide, we’ll explain how off-peak electricity works, when those cheaper times usually are in your state, and whether it could help you save on your power bills. It’s a simple switch that could make a real difference, if it suits your routine.
What Is Off-Peak Electricity in Australia?
Off-peak electricity is simply electricity that costs less during certain times of the day, usually when fewer people are using power. These lower rates are part of what’s called a time-of-use (TOU) tariff, which charges different prices depending on when you use electricity.
Here’s how it works: if you’re on a TOU plan and have a smart meter, your energy use is tracked across three periods—peak, shoulder, and off-peak. Off-peak is the cheapest of the three and generally falls overnight, early morning, or during other low-demand times. In some areas with lots of solar generation, it can also include parts of the day when solar power floods the grid.
The reason off-peak electricity is cheaper is because it’s when demand on the grid is at its lowest. Power stations aren’t under as much pressure, and the cost to supply energy drops. Networks and retailers pass those savings onto you in the form of lower usage rates.
Off-peak rates can offer significant savings. In many cases, you’ll pay just 8–18 cents per kilowatt hour (¢/kWh) during off-peak times, compared to 30–60 ¢/kWh during peak periods. But your actual rates depend on your energy provider and plan.
When Is Off-Peak Electricity Time?
Electricity peak and off-peak times vary by state and energy network, but the general idea is the same: it’s when the grid is under the least stress. That’s usually overnight, but in some regions, it can also include late mornings or midday hours.
Here’s a quick look at the most common peak, shoulder, and off-peak hours across major states and distribution networks:
State - Network | Peak | Shoulder | Off-peak |
NSW - Ausgrid | 3 pm – 9 pm (daily, Nov–Mar & Jun–Aug) | 7 am – 3 pm; 9 pm – 10 pm | 10 pm – 7 am (all day in Apr–May & Sep–Oct) |
VIC - CitiPower | 3 pm – 9 pm (daily) | 7 am – 3 pm; 9 pm – 10 pm | 10 pm – 7 am (or all other times on two-rate plans) |
QLD - Energex | 4 pm – 9 pm (daily) | 9 pm – 9 am | 9 am – 4 pm |
WA - Western Power | 3 pm – 9 pm (weekdays) | 7 am – 3 pm: 9 pm – 10 pm | 10 pm – 7 am; or 9 pm – 7 am on SH1 tariff |
A few things to keep in mind:
Seasonal changes: Some networks adjust rates depending on the time of year. For example, Ausgrid removes peak charges during shoulder seasons and adds midday off-peak blocks in summer to absorb excess solar.
Weekends: Peak hours often change or disappear on weekends. However, Energex (QLD) and Western Power (WA) usually stick to the same schedule every day.
Understanding Different Electricity Tariff Types
To really get a sense of off-peak electricity and what it offers, it helps to understand the different types of tariffs available and how each one works:
Single (Flat) Rate
A single-rate, or flat-rate, plan charges the same price for electricity no matter what time you use it. It doesn’t matter if you’re using power during peak hours or in the middle of the night—the rate stays the same. These plans are simple and often sit somewhere between typical peak and off-peak rates.
Time-of-Use (TOU)
As we’ve learned, a time-of-use tariff breaks the day into different pricing periods: peak, shoulder, and off-peak. You pay more during peak times (usually late afternoon to evening), less during shoulder hours, and the least overnight or during low-demand periods.
Controlled Load
A controlled-load tariff applies to specific appliances that are metered separately—commonly electric hot water systems. These appliances draw power only during set hours, usually overnight or during off-peak times, and are charged at a lower rate. In Queensland, for instance, these are known as Tariff 31 and Tariff 33.
Demand Tariff
A demand tariff includes a usage charge plus a separate fee based on your highest burst of electricity demand in a billing period, usually measured in a 30-minute window during peak hours.
If your energy use is steady and you avoid running many high-powered appliances at once, this tariff can work in your favour. But if your peak demand spikes (for example, using the oven, heater, and dryer at the same time), your charges could jump.
Block Tariff
Block tariffs (also called inclining block tariffs) charge one rate for your first chunk of electricity, and a higher rate once you go over that amount. While they’re less common for new residential customers, some existing plans still use this structure.
Feed-in Tariff
If you have solar panels, you’ll also have a feed-in tariff. This is what your energy provider pays you for the power you export back to the grid. Feed-in tariffs sit alongside any of the above usage tariffs and vary depending on your retailer or state government guidelines.
Of course, each tariff type comes with its pros and cons. The best choice depends on your household’s energy usage patterns and your ability to adapt.
Are You Eligible for Off-Peak Electricity Rates and Should You Use Them?
Think a TOU plan and off-peak electricity rates might help you save? Here’s how to find out if you can access it, and whether it’s a good fit for your household.
How to Check If You’re Eligible
You have a smart or interval meter: TOU plans need a meter that tracks when you use electricity, not just how much. If you’re in NSW, VIC, SA, or SE QLD, you likely already have one, or can request an upgrade. Regulators aim for full rollout by 2030.
Your local network supports TOU tariffs: Every network publishes the tariff codes it allows. For instance, Energex (SE QLD) lists specific residential TOU and economy tariffs, while Western Power in WA includes “Super Off-Peak” blocks on Synergy plans.
You’re on a plan that includes TOU pricing: Even with the right meter and network, you’ll need to be on a plan that supports TOU. Some retailers automatically switch you after a meter upgrade, but others require you to opt in.
Your property is compatible: Most houses can upgrade to TOU, but some apartment buildings or older homes in embedded networks may be restricted by their setup.
Is It Worth Switching to Off-Peak?
You can shift your usage: Off-peak pricing makes the most sense if you can move high-energy tasks—like running the dishwasher, charging an EV, or heating your hot water—into cheaper off-peak electricity hours.
You avoid peak-time spikes: If most of your energy use happens in the evening when rates are highest, the savings from off-peak might not outweigh the cost of peak rates. Checking your usage patterns can help you decide.
You have a controlled-load option: Some appliances, like electric water heaters, can be put on a separate controlled-load tariff, which may be even cheaper than general off-peak rates.
You have a home backup generator: Households with a home backup generator can benefit by charging batteries during off-peak times and using that stored energy during peak periods—maximising both savings and feed-in credits.
You’re preparing for changes: As smart meters roll out across more homes, time-based pricing will become more common. Learning how off-peak pricing works now puts you ahead of the curve.
What You Can Do Next
Check your electricity bill or online account to see what type of tariff you’re on and whether your meter is smart-enabled.
Compare plans using your state’s comparison site or the federal Energy Made Easy tool to see if a TOU option could save you money.
Talk to your retailer about switching plans or upgrading your meter if needed—many upgrades are free when paired with a new contract.
Tips to Maximise Electricity Bill Savings
Making the most of off-peak rates is just one piece of the puzzle. Here are some practical ways to reduce your energy bills, without sacrificing comfort.
Shift Usage to Off-Peak Hours
If you’re on or switching to a time-of-use plan, try to run energy-hungry appliances—like washing machines, dryers, dishwashers, and pool pumps—during off-peak periods. Smart plugs and timers can help automate this, especially overnight.
Use Appliances Efficiently
Run full loads in your dishwasher and washing machine, and use eco modes where available. Avoid overloading dryers, and clean filters regularly to keep them running efficiently. Every bit helps reduce total energy use.
Set Your Heating and Cooling Smartly
In winter, aim for 18–20°C on the thermostat; in summer, 24–26°C is usually enough to stay comfortable. Using ceiling fans can help you feel cooler without lowering the air con temperature.
Monitor Your Usage
Most retailers offer apps or online tools that show your daily or hourly usage. These insights make it easier to spot high-usage patterns and shift habits accordingly—especially helpful on TOU or demand tariffs.
Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances
When it’s time to replace appliances, check the energy rating labels. A more efficient fridge, air conditioner, or washing machine can save you hundreds over its lifetime, even if it costs more upfront.
Install Solar Panels and Batteries
Installing solar panels can significantly reduce your electricity bills by generating your own power during the day. But if you pair your solar setup with a battery—whether it’s a fixed system or a plug-and-play portable power station—you can save even more. It lets you store extra energy to use later, like when electricity rates go up or during a power outage.
If you’re looking for a flexible, high-performance option that doesn’t require professional installation, the EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Portable Power Station is a smart solution. You can charge it during off-peak hours or with solar during the day, then use that stored energy to power your home later.
With 4kWh of battery capacity and 4,000W of continuous output, it can run multiple large appliances at once, including your washing machine and air con. Fast-charging tech means it’s ready to go again in under an hour, and its quiet operation and built-in backup protection make it ideal for everyday use and emergencies alike.
EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Portable Power Station
Compare Energy Plans Regularly
Energy providers frequently update their plans and rates. Use government-run comparison tools like Energy Made Easy (or your state’s equivalent) to ensure you’re on the most cost-effective plan for your usage patterns.
Conclusion
Once you get your head around what is off peak electricity and when it applies, it’s easier than you’d think to start using energy more efficiently—and spending less. Whether it’s shifting the dishwasher to run overnight or charging devices at smarter times, small changes can add up.
If your plan offers off-peak rates (and most do), it’s worth seeing how they line up with your routine. A few tweaks, and you could be trimming dollars off your next bill without really changing much at all.
FAQs
What time is off peak energy in Australia?
Off-peak energy times in Australia typically occur overnight when electricity demand is lower. While exact times can vary by state and energy provider, off-peak hours are generally between 10 pm and 7 am on weekdays and often extend to all day on weekends and public holidays.
What is the cheapest time of day to use electricity?
If you’re on a time-of-use plan, the cheapest time to use electricity is during off-peak periods when demand is low, and energy providers offer reduced rates. These times are typically overnight, from around 10 pm to 7 am, and often include weekends and public holidays. By scheduling energy-intensive activities like doing laundry during these off-peak hours, you can take advantage of lower electricity rates and reduce your energy bills.
What is the best time to use the washing machine in Australia?
If your home is on a time-of-use plan, it’s best to run your washing machine during off-peak hours, typically between 10 pm and 7 am, or during weekends and public holidays when electricity rates are lower. Many modern washing machines have delay start features, allowing you to set them to operate during these cheaper periods.
What is peak and off-peak electricity?
Peak and off-peak electricity refer to the varying rates charged by energy providers based on the time of day and overall demand. Peak periods occur when electricity demand is highest—usually during weekday afternoons and evenings—and are charged at higher rates. Off-peak periods, when demand is lower (typically overnight between 10 pm - 7 am and on weekends), come with reduced rates. Some providers also offer ‘shoulder’ periods with mid-range rates during transition times between peak and off-peak.