Savings · Electricity Usage
Peak Hours for Electricity in Pakistan
Peak hours are the times when electricity demand across the national grid is highest. During these hours, more expensive generation sources kick in, and on a Time of Use (ToU) tariff, you pay a higher rate per unit. Understanding peak hours can help you schedule heavy appliances smarter.
Definition
Peak Hours
The time windows when national electricity demand is highest and grid stress is at its peak.
In Pakistan, peak demand typically occurs in the evening between 6 PM and 11 PM, when people return home, switch on lights, run ACs, watch TV, and cook dinner all at the same time. A smaller secondary peak also occurs in the morning around 8 AM to 11 AM. These are the times when the grid runs expensive backup generators and reserves capacity, which costs more per unit to generate.
Typical Time of Use (ToU) Schedule
Under the ToU tariff, consumers are charged different rates depending on the time of day. This schedule is indicative — check NEPRA's latest tariff determination for current figures.
| Period | Hours | Rate Level |
|---|---|---|
| Peak Hours | 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM | Highest rate |
| Normal Hours | 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM | Standard rate |
| Off-Peak Hours | 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM | Lowest rate |
| Off-Peak (Weekend) | All day Saturday and Sunday (for some categories) | Lowest rate |
Who Has a ToU Meter in Pakistan
ToU metering is not yet universal. Here is who currently uses it.
Industrial and large commercial consumers
Consumers with a sanctioned load above 5kW or 25kW (depending on the tariff category) are typically placed on ToU metering automatically.
Net metering solar consumers
Residential and commercial consumers with approved solar net metering connections use bi-directional meters that can also track ToU.
Residential consumers (not yet widespread)
Smart ToU meters for general residential consumers are being rolled out in phases. Most Pakistani households are still on conventional flat-rate meters.
Appliances Worth Shifting to Off-Peak Hours
If you are on a ToU tariff, these changes can meaningfully reduce your bill.
- Washing machine — run after 11 PM or on weekends
- Dishwasher — set the delay start timer to run overnight
- Water heater (geyser) — heat water at night for morning use
- EV charging — if you own an electric vehicle, charge overnight
- Swimming pool or water pump — run motors during off-peak if possible
- Clothes dryer — use off-peak timings if you have one
Load Shedding vs Peak Hours
Load shedding and peak hours are related but different things. Load shedding is when NEPRA or the grid operator reduces supply to certain areas because demand exceeds available supply. This often happens during peak hours. However, your DISCO load shedding schedule is separate from the ToU tariff and affects all consumers in your feeder, not just ToU account holders.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I am on a ToU tariff?
Your electricity bill will show your tariff category. ToU consumers are usually listed under codes like B1 (ToU) or A3 (ToU) depending on DISCO. If your meter has a digital display showing different readings, you may be on ToU. Call 118 or your DISCO to confirm.
Can I voluntarily switch to a ToU tariff?
This depends on your DISCO and your consumer category. Some DISCOs allow eligible residential consumers to apply for ToU metering. The benefit is a lower off-peak rate, but you pay more during peak hours. If you can shift most of your usage to off-peak, the overall saving is real.
Does using more electricity during off-peak hours cause load shedding?
No. The off-peak rate is designed to encourage usage during low-demand periods. Using more electricity during off-peak times does not cause load shedding — it actually helps balance the grid by spreading demand more evenly.