France expands off-peak electricity tariffs to 3 kVA consumers

Starting August 1, 2026, small electricity consumers in France with 3 kVA meters are now eligible for off-peak pricing (heures creuses). Previously, this option was reserved for larger households with meters of 6 kVA or higher.

The reform, implemented by the Commission de régulation de l'énergie (CRE), affects approximately 6 million small consumers, including those living in studios, small apartments, or secondary residences. The CRE estimates that 60% of these households could reduce their electricity bills by 10% to 15% by shifting consumption to off-peak hours, which typically occur for eight hours a day (often between 10 PM and 6 AM).

With the use of Linky smart meters, the transition to this new tariff option can be completed within 24 hours without additional fees. The benefit is most significant for consumers able to move energy-intensive appliance usage to the lower-cost periods defined by Enedis.