Atypical Grid Usage

Atypical grid usage describes a specific load profile of industrial and commercial customers in which the annual peak load deliberately falls outside the high-load time windows defined by the grid operator. As a result, companies can apply for a reduced individual grid fee under Section 19 StromNEV.

How does atypical grid usage work?

Grid operators publish high-load time windows each year, during which the electricity grid is under particularly heavy demand. The decisive factor is that the highest power demand does not occur within these windows. This is achieved through targeted load shifting or peak shaving.

Technical implementation

Implementation often uses industrial storage or commercial storage systems. An electricity storage system can store energy temporarily and provide it during high-load periods instead of drawing from the grid. In addition, energy management systems control consumption automatically.

Economic relevance

By reducing the relevant peak load within the high-load time windows, companies can significantly lower their grid fees. At the same time, the electricity grid is relieved, as critical peak loads are avoided.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does atypical grid usage mean?

Atypical grid usage means that a company manages its electricity load so that its highest power demand occurs outside the high-load time windows specified by the grid operator. This allows reduced individual grid fees to be applied for under Section 19 StromNEV.

How can atypical grid usage be achieved technically?

Atypical grid usage can be achieved technically by reducing or shifting peak loads within high-load time windows – for example using battery storage, energy management systems and load-shifting strategies.

Why is atypical grid usage relevant for companies?

Companies can significantly reduce their grid fees through atypical grid usage, as they can agree an individual grid fee for a lower peak-load contribution within the high-load time windows.

What role does a battery storage system play in atypical grid usage?

A battery storage system can absorb peak loads or shift loads specifically into off-peak periods. This keeps grid consumption lower during critical high-load periods, improving the conditions for atypical grid usage.

Can atypical grid usage relieve the electricity grid?

Yes. By avoiding peak loads in the heavily utilised time windows, the electricity grid is relieved overall, which also brings benefits for grid stability and grid expansion costs.