Andhra Pradesh electricity bills may now depend on the clock

The time you switch on your appliances could soon decide how much you pay for electricity. The Andhra Pradesh Eastern Power Distribution Company Limited (APEPDCL) is introducing the Time of Day (ToD) Tariff for households. Using power during off-peak hours could lower bills, while running appliances in the evening could cost more.

The tariff already applies to industrial and commercial users with connected loads above 10 kW under the Electricity (Consumer Rights) Amendment Rules, 2023. Officials said the next phase will cover residential consumers, especially larger homes such as 4BHK units.

Under ToD, electricity will cost less between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. It will cost more between 6 p.m. and midnight. Smart meters will track usage hour by hour. “We are working on ToD tariff and trying to convince consumers to adopt smart meters, which can help them save on electricity bills,” an APEPDCL official said.

Households are already considering the changes. “If running my washing machine in the afternoon saves money, I will adjust my routine,” said Anuradha, a homemaker in Visakhapatnam. Ravi, a software professional, said, “Evening is when we use ACs and induction cooktops the most. Higher rates at that time will pinch, but we can shift some activities.”

Some residents see benefits in the system. “I charge my electric scooter at night. If the new system makes it cheaper in the afternoon, I’ll switch,” said Naresh, a college lecturer.

Officials explained that rising air-conditioner use has pushed up demand throughout the year. Evening hours remain the most power-intensive. APEPDCL’s peak demand now averages 3,800–4,000 MW, while off-peak demand ranges from 3,000–3,500 MW. The utility supplies power to more than 70 lakh consumers. The company is expected to announce household tariff slabs soon.