Spain's electricity rates show cheap valleys and costly peaks on July 18, 2026
On Saturday, July 18, 2026, Spain's wholesale electricity price set by OMIE averaged 90.74 €/MWh. Hour‑by‑hour rates ranged from a low of 0.0217 €/kWh between 15:00 and 16:00 to a high of 0.2043 €/kWh from 07:00 to 08:00. The cheapest period for consumers was identified between 13:00 and 16:00, while the most expensive hours occurred around midnight and early morning.
Experts advise that real savings depend on contract terms and appliance load. Gemma Reinón of Català Reinón Abogados said, “Ahorrar electricidad no depende solo de tener una tarifa barata. También importa cuándo se usan los electrodomésticos que más consumen.” She added that running a half‑empty washing machine “no suele ser buena estrategia.” Using appliances at full load during the valley period (00:00‑08:00 on weekdays and all day on weekends) can reduce bills, provided the tariff distinguishes between peak, flat‑rate, and off‑peak hours.
The price surge across Europe is linked to higher gas costs and rising CO₂ emission allowances, which continue to shape Spain’s hourly electricity pricing.