Off-Peak/Peak Hours Electricity in France: Complete Guide 2026
Understanding this tariff option, determining if it's profitable for you, and how to optimize your consumption to maximize savings.
Key Takeaways
- Worth it at 40%+ off-peak usage — only beneficial if you shift enough consumption to off-peak hours
- Linky meters switch for free — remote reprogramming, no technician visit needed
- Schedule varies by municipality — France has about 4,000 different off-peak schedules
- Best for electric heating and water — water heaters, storage heaters, and EV charging
- Check your meter first — you need a dual-rate (HP/HC) meter to qualify
1. What is the HP/HC Option?
The Peak Hours/Off-Peak Hours (HP/HC) option, also called "dual tariff," offers two kWh prices depending on the time of day:
Higher price for 16h/day (high demand periods)
Reduced price for 8h/day (usually at night)
This option allows you to save money if you shift a significant portion of your consumption to off-peak hours.
2. Off-Peak Hours Schedule
Off-peak hour slots vary by municipality and are set by Enedis. There are two main configurations:
Most Common Configuration
8 consecutive hours at night:
- 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM
- or 11:00 PM - 7:00 AM
- or 9:30 PM - 5:30 AM
Split Schedule Configuration
Fractioned off-peak hours:
- Night: 1:00 AM - 7:00 AM (6 hours)
- Afternoon: 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM (2 hours)
How to find your schedule? Check your Linky meter (press the + button), your electricity bill, or your Enedis online account.
3. 2026 Rates (EDF Regulated Tariff)
Here are EDF's regulated tariffs (TRV) as of February 1, 2026 for the HP/HC option:
| Power | Subscription/year | Peak (€/kWh) | Off-Peak (€/kWh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kVA | €156.12 | €0.2068 | €0.1607 |
| 9 kVA | €200.28 | €0.2068 | €0.1607 |
| 12 kVA | €241.56 | €0.2068 | €0.1607 |
* Prices incl. VAT as of 01/02/2026. Source: EDF. Rates subject to change.
4. Is It Worth It for You?
The HP/HC option is profitable if you consume at least 40% of your electricity during off-peak hours. Here are the profiles concerned:
Can run automatically during off-peak hours
Charging scheduled at night
Store heat during off-peak hours
Washing machine, dishwasher with delay start
Simple Calculation
The HP/HC subscription costs about €25/year more than the Base option. To break even, you need to save at least this amount through the reduced off-peak price. With a difference of ~4.5 c€/kWh, you need to consume about 550 kWh/year during off-peak hours to be profitable.
5. Optimizing Your Consumption During Off-Peak Hours
- Water heater: Check it's set to "Auto" mode to trigger only during off-peak hours
- Washing machine/dishwasher: Use the delay start function to schedule startup during off-peak hours
- Electric vehicle: Program charging to start after off-peak hours begin
- Tumble dryer: If you have one, use it only during off-peak hours
- Oven: If possible, cook dishes overnight (programmable mode)
6. Frequently Asked Questions
What are off-peak hours in France?▼
Off-peak hours last 8 hours per day and vary by municipality. They are usually between 10 PM and 6 AM or include an afternoon slot (12 PM-2 PM).
Is the off-peak hours option worth it?▼
The option is worth it if you consume at least 40% of your electricity during off-peak hours.
How do I know if I have the off-peak option?▼
Check your electricity bill. If you see two indexes (HP and HC), you have the off-peak hours option.
Can I change tariff options for free?▼
With a Linky meter, the change is free (remote modification). With a traditional meter, fees may apply.
Official Sources
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Disclaimer: The rates shown are provided for information only and may change. Contact your supplier for current rates.