ESB to introduce 'time of day' charging to incentivise off-peak use
The ESB is preparing to adjust its charges according to the time of day.
The utility said "time of use" tariffs will be part of its smart metering programme and is due to start rolling out two years from now.
The system will encourage people to use power at non-peak times, to reduce pressure on the national grid at other times.
It is not known whether the move will mean more expensive power at certain times of the day - it may simply mean cheaper energy during the night.
Company trials have shown people save money on their bills when they are told about cheaper periods.
