HIGH ELECTRICITY CONSUMERS: WHAT REALLY AFFECTS YOUR ELECTRICITY BILL? 

Your electricity bill typically consists of: 

• Energy consumption (kWh) 

• Grid fees, which can depend on power demand (kW), simultaneous use of devices, or a fixed charge based on connection capacity 

• Contributions and surcharges, such as renewable energy levies, efficiency measures, and regulatory fees 

• Excise duties and VAT, which vary by country 

While the cost of electricity is influenced by the price per kWh, the structure of the grid fee varies between EU countries. In some countries, the grid fee is primarily based on peak power demand (kW)—how much power your appliances require simultaneously—while in others, it may be a fixed charge or depend on total consumption (kWh). 

If multiple high-power appliances run at the same time, peak demand increases, which can lead to higher grid charges in countries where fees are based on power demand. 

Many everyday appliances operate at high power levels, significantly contributing to electricity costs. The biggest culprits include: 

• Electric water heaters (boilers) – Traditional electric water heaters consume large amounts of electricity in a short time. 

• Direct electric heating (IR panels, electric radiators, underfloor heating) – These systems require high power, especially when multiple units are used. 

• Clothes dryers – Typically operate at 2 to 4 kW, making them one of the larger power consumers. 

• Induction cooktops and electric ovens – Cooking on multiple burners or baking can exceed 5 kW, especially if the cooktop has a built-in extractor fan. 

• EV charging stations – Fast chargers with 11 kW or more significantly increase peak electricity demand during charging. 

• Saunas and hot tubs – Heating water and air is highly energy-intensive and can substantially raise peak loads. 

A few simple adjustments can help reduce peak loads and optimize electricity expenses, regardless of how the grid fee is calculated: 

• Stagger appliance use – Avoid running multiple high-power devices at the same time. For example, running a dryer, oven, and water heater simultaneously can cause a sharp spike in demand. Try scheduling water heating for off-peak hours or times when fewer other appliances are in use. 

• Smart EV charging – If using a high-power charger, schedule charging during off-peak hours or when other major consumers are off. In some countries, time-of-use tariffs make electricity cheaper at night, making smart charging even more beneficial. 

• Choose energy-efficient appliances – Consider the energy demand of new appliances. Heat pumps, for example, consume significantly less electricity than direct electric heating systems. 

• Use smart consumption management – Take control of energy use with smart home systems that automate and optimize electricity demand. 

Heat pumps are one of the most energy-efficient heating systems available, reducing electricity consumption and overall heating costs. Yet, they are often wrongly labeled as major electricity consumers, despite the fact that: 

• They do not operate at full power all the time – Modern heat pumps adjust output to actual demand and rarely run at maximum capacity. 

• They are far more efficient than traditional electric heaters – Depending on the system and local electricity pricing, heat pumps can consume up to eight times less electricity to produce the same amount of heat compared to electric radiators and boilers. 

• They offer smart control options – Advanced heat pumps can adjust operation to avoid peak demand periods, reducing grid fees in countries where this applies. 

KRONOTERM heat pumps deliver exceptional efficiency and significant electricity savings. With advanced technology, adaptive power control, and smart management, they optimize energy use and reduce heating costs. Contact us today to find the perfect solution for your home.