The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) has published a proposal for time-of-use (TOU) electricity tariffs that will affect households and small businesses. This initiative aims to adjust energy costs based on consumption patterns, encouraging users to consume electricity during off-peak hours.

By implementing these new tariffs, ACM estimates that there will be a 10 percent reduction in peak load from households, allowing for approximately 700,000 additional homes to connect to the grid without requiring direct expansions. The proposal is designed to promote a more even utilization of the grid, ultimately reducing the need for future grid investments.

Manon Leijten, a member of ACM's board, stated that around 60 percent of households will benefit from these new tariffs. Households will be incentivized to charge electric vehicles and use smart appliances during cheaper, off-peak hours, thus freeing up grid capacity for new connections.

The proposed tariff structure will consist of a fixed amount and a variable amount based on consumption and time of use. This change aims to lower energy bills for many households, with small homes projected to save between 100 to 200 euros annually by 2029.

ACM has also published draft decisions for time-of-use tariffs for businesses with high-capacity connections, which will begin implementation on January 1, 2028. Interested parties have six weeks to respond to the proposals before ACM finalizes its decisions.