
Smart energy use
Electricity bills can also be reduced without costly technology investments. Small changes in daily energy habits can make a big difference – especially when many people make them. These changes can reduce grid stress and support the use of renewable energy sources.
Why do electricity prices fluctuate?
Variable renewable energy, especially wind, is a key source of electricity nowadays. On windy days, electricity tends to be cheaper, while on calm days, prices tend to rise. On the other hand, demand influences the price as well. During peak demand periods, prices go up, as the power system may have to rely on more expensive and less sustainable energy sources. Timing electricity consumption when wind power is abundant can reduce electricity bills and promote the utilization of domestic renewable energy. Alternatively, reducing consumption during peak demand will reduce electricity bills, as well as environmental impacts.
Where can I find electricity price information?
In Finland, several tools and services help you stay updated on electricity prices and grid conditions. Many electricity providers offer real-time price data via apps or websites. Applications like Tuntihinta and Sähköseuranta show hourly electricity prices. Through the applications, it is possible to get notifications when prices are especially high or low. Teksti-TV page 189 shows information on current and day-ahead electricity prices. The grid conditions can also be followed from the Fingrid webpage and wind forecasts followed on the Finnish Meteorological Institute webpage.
Scheduling energy use
Aligning energy use with supply and demand is a part of demand-side flexibility. Actions supporting demand-side flexibility include:
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Avoiding the usage of multiple appliances at the same time during peak consumption times, such as mornings (7-9) and evenings (17-20).
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Charging electric vehicles or other battery-powered electronics when electricity is cheap.
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Delay the use of energy-intensive appliances during high-price hours.
The benefits of scheduling
Scheduling energy usage helps save money by taking advantage of low-cost hours. Scheduling supports renewable energy by directing energy usage to times of abundant wind power production.
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Saves money when electricity is used during cheaper hours.
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Supports renewable energy when the use of electricity is shifted to times of abundant wind power.
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Reduces emissions when consumption at peak-price hours is avoided.
