Tariffs13 October 2026

Controlled Load vs Time-of-Use: Two Different Meanings of Off-Peak Power

The words “off-peak” are used for two different arrangements. One changes when a dedicated circuit has power; the other changes the price of general usage.

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Controlled load is a separate appliance arrangement

With controlled load, eligible equipment is supplied through a separately arranged circuit and its usage is measured separately for the applicable tariff. The circuit may only be energised during defined periods. Storage hot water is a common example, while other appliances depend on network and retailer eligibility.

A separate measurement does not necessarily mean a second physical meter box: an appropriate metering installation may record more than one element. The physical configuration must be confirmed by the appointed provider and electrician. Setting a timer on an ordinary socket does not create controlled load or make the usage eligible for its rate.

Time-of-use prices general usage by time

Time-of-use applies different prices to energy measured in the plan’s peak, off-peak and, where offered, shoulder periods. It does not ordinarily switch the general household supply off outside the cheap period. Running an appliance in a cheaper period changes when it is measured, not the wiring category of that appliance.

Retail plans can use different periods on weekends or across seasons. Confirm the current plan’s timetable and time convention with the retailer. The network’s controlled-load switching schedule should not be copied into an appliance timer as if it were the retailer’s general off-peak price schedule.

Use two practical scenarios

Consider a home with storage hot water on controlled load and a washing machine on a general circuit. The hot-water circuit follows its accepted supply arrangement and has separately measured usage. Running the washing machine overnight does not put it on controlled load; its charge depends on the general-usage plan.

Now consider a home with all general usage on time-of-use and no controlled-load circuit. Charging an appliance overnight may use the off-peak general rate, while running the same appliance during the peak period uses that rate instead. The general circuit remains available. These examples explain the arrangements, not a promise of appliance eligibility or savings.

Look for these distinctions on the bill

General usage split into peak, shoulder or off-peak lines under time-of-use.
A separately identified controlled-load line where that arrangement exists.
The plan’s daily and other charges, not just one attractive usage rate.
Separate export or demand components where the plan includes them.

Decide whether you need a plan review or electrical work

If you only want to understand the price periods on an existing bill, start with the retailer. If you want to add an eligible dedicated appliance circuit or your metering does not support the required measurements, electrical and metering work may be needed. Those are different scopes and should be quoted separately.

Our off-peak and tariff-ready metering service reviews the physical capability and coordinates the provider handoff. The retailer confirms the plan and rates. Compare the full expected bill before changing arrangements; a smart meter enables measurement but does not select a cheaper contract for you.

COMMON QUESTIONS

Does my off-peak time-of-use rate mean the power is switched off at other times?

No. Time-of-use usually changes the price of general usage by time. Controlled load is a separate circuit arrangement with restricted supply periods.

Does using a timer create controlled load?

No. A timer on a general circuit does not change the metering or tariff eligibility. Controlled load requires an accepted electrical and account arrangement.

Can a home have both arrangements?

Yes, where supported by the installation and plan. General usage may be on time-of-use while an eligible appliance has separately measured controlled load.

RELATED SERVICES

Off Peak Metering

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Distinguish a retail-plan change from a dedicated-circuit project before booking electrical work.

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