Aneel proposes time-of-use electricity tariff in Brazil

The National Electric Energy Agency (Aneel) has proposed a new electricity billing model called Tarifa Hora Certa (Right Hour Tariff). The initiative aims to incentivize consumers to shift their energy usage to off-peak hours to reduce system demand.

The proposal targets low-voltage consumers in residential, rural, commercial, and industrial sectors. Approximately 5.7 million users with average monthly consumption of 500 kWh or more would be automatically enrolled. Those consuming less than 500 kWh could join voluntarily. Beneficiaries of social tariffs, public lighting, and prepaid units are excluded from this change.

Implementation is planned to be gradual: consumers using over 1,800 kWh/month would be included by April 2028, followed by those using over 1,000 kWh/month in 2029, and finally those using over 500 kWh/month in 2031. The tariff structure includes peak, intermediate, and off-peak periods, with weekends and holidays typically receiving lower rates. The proposal currently awaits approval from Aneel's board of directors.