Time Bands

Distribution charges vary by time of day to reflect when the network is under most stress. Red periods cover the expensive peak hours - typically 4pm to 7pm on weekdays when household demand combines with commercial usage. Green periods cover the cheapest times - overnight hours and weekends when demand is lowest. Amber periods cover the remaining daytime hours.

Typical time band definitions:

• Red (Peak): Weekday late afternoon/evening (commonly 16:00-19:00)
• Amber (Shoulder): Weekday daytime outside peak
• Green (Off-peak): Nights (typically after 23:00), weekends, bank holidays

The exact timing of these bands varies slightly between DNO regions, reflecting local demand patterns. Some regions also have different bands for different tariff types or seasons (winter vs summer).

Why it matters: The difference between Red and Green rates can be substantial - Red rates can be 3-4 times higher than Green. For businesses with flexibility - such as the ability to schedule energy-intensive processes overnight - even small shifts in usage patterns can generate meaningful savings over a year.

Each DNO publishes their time band definitions in their annual Charging Statement.