For many Ukrainians, the issue of paying utility bills has become one of the most pressing. However, there is a way to significantly reduce expenses — using dual-rate electricity meters. These devices allow you to reduce the amounts in electricity bills by almost half if readings are taken and submitted correctly.

How the dual-rate tariff works

Unlike standard meters, a dual-rate meter records not only the total volume of electricity consumed but also the exact time of its usage. This opens up opportunities for savings: consumers pay only half the price for electricity used during nighttime hours — from 23:00 to 07:00.

This approach is particularly relevant for those who can shift some energy-intensive processes to nighttime hours — for example, laundry, charging electric vehicles, or operating powerful household appliances.

What is displayed on the meter screen

On the display of a dual-rate meter, three key parameters are shown alternately at 10-second intervals:

  • Readings for the "day" tariff;
  • Readings for the "night" tariff;
  • Total volume of energy consumed.

It is precisely this data that must be submitted monthly to the distribution system operator within the established deadlines. An error in specifying the indices can lead to incorrect calculations and increased expenses.

How to avoid errors when submitting readings

To avoid confusing the numbers, it is important to carefully monitor the markings on the device screen. On the most popular meter models, the indices have clear designations that help distinguish between day and night readings.

If the numbers on the screen seem abnormally low or too high, it is recommended to immediately contact the operator company to check the correct operation of the device. This will help avoid overpayments and ensure accurate accounting of consumption.

Who is this especially important for

Dual-rate meters are particularly beneficial for those who have the ability to flexibly plan the use of electricity. For example, owners of electric boilers, underfloor heating, charging stations for electric vehicles, or simply those who are used to turning on powerful appliances in the evening or at night.

Previously, RBK-Ukraine has already reported on which Ukrainians are entitled to benefits when paying for housing and communal services, as well as what to do if the utility bill is calculated incorrectly. Now, attention is being paid to another tool for savings — the correct use of dual-rate meters.