Each home in New Zealand has a unique metering set up (known as tariffs). Choosing the right electricity tariff can significantly impact your electricity bills. With various options available, it's crucial to understand each to determine which best suits your needs.
Important: making changes to your electricity meter can only be done by a trained technician. Contact your power comopany to find out more. Do not under any circumstance touch your meter yourself!
Photo source: https://www.consumer.org.nz/articles/smart-meter-pros-and-cons
Here's a breakdown of the most common tariffs in NZ:
Uncontrolled (Anytime)
Description: The uncontrolled meter, often called 'Anytime', charges electricity at a single rate, regardless of the time of day. It's the most prevalent type in New Zealand homes.
Ideal for: Households with consistent energy usage throughout the day​​, especially for larger families.
Economy 24
Description: The Economy 24 controlled meter, also known as an inclusive meter, is partially controlled by your local network company. This tariff is usually cheaper than Anytime rates
Ideal for: Smaller households with lower power usage.
3. Controlled
Description: This meter allows your network company to control a portion of your power (often the hot water cylinder) and is measured separately from the power they can't control. The company may switch off the controlled portion during high demand or emergencies. You typically get a discounted rate for this controlled power.
Ideal for: Households looking for lower rates on certain utilities like hot water, especially during peak demand times​​.
5. Day (7am-11pm) and Night (11pm-7am)
Description: This tariff segregates 'day' and 'night' usage, charging each at different rates. Lower rates are typically offered for night usage (11pm to 7am), while the day rate applies between 7am and 11pm.
Ideal for: Households with higher energy usage during the night, such as those with night storage heaters​​.
6. Export (Import/Export)
Description: The import/export meter is designed for homes generating their own electricity (like with solar panels). It has two registers: one for the energy used and another for electricity exported back to the national grid.
Ideal for: Homes with renewable energy sources, like solar panels, allowing them to track and possibly profit from excess energy production​​.
Choosing the Right Tariff
Selecting the appropriate tariff depends on your household's energy consumption patterns and the specific utilities you use more frequently. It's advisable to assess your typical energy usage, peak hours of consumption, and whether you have renewable energy sources. With this information, you can align your needs with the tariff that offers the most cost-effective solution for your home.
Remember, the correct tariff can lead to significant savings on your power bill. It's worth taking the time to understand and choose wisely!
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