Modelling Time-of-Use Electricity Tariffs for Tamil Nadu



India's pursuit of climate targets, including net-zero emissions by 2070, hinges on integrating renewable energy. The power sector's heavy reliance on fossil fuels necessitates a significant shift towards renewables. With a rising demand for electricity, effective demand-side management strategies are vital to ensure grid stability. Time-of-use (ToU) tariffs, recognized globally, play a crucial role in this strategy, offering a more accurate reflection of electricity costs compared to flat rates.


This report focuses on evaluating the impact of various ToU tariff designs on grid management parameters for Tamil Nadu in 2024. The objective is to assess how static ToU tariffs prompt consumers to shift or reduce electricity usage, facilitating greater renewable energy integration. The study considers 27 ToU tariff designs, assuming 17% wind energy and 11% solar energy. Notably, findings are specific to Tamil Nadu's energy demand pattern, peaking in early afternoon hours in April.


Results emphasize the importance of defining peak and off-peak time slots optimally to reduce peak loads and curtailment of renewables. Shifting peak hours from 6:00h-10:00h and 18:00h-22:00h to 5:00h-7:00h and 17:00h-23:00h improves key parameters, including a reduction in peak load instances on the gross and net load. Introducing a tariff rebate during solar energy generation hours (solar sponge) from 10:00h to 16:00h effectively reduces peak load magnitudes and encourages load distribution throughout the day, enhancing grid stability. Adjusting peak hour tariffs and shifting peak hours has a noticeable impact on load distribution and peak load occurrences.


The study indicates that a 25% increase in peak-hour tariffs outperforms a more aggressive 40% increase, which may create new peak load instances. Simulated off-peak rebates of 5% and 10% during late night and early morning hours have negligible effects.



Overall, these findings underscore the potential benefits of implementing ToU tariffs for all consumer categories, including reduced peak loads, load range occurrences, and ramping requirements. Careful consideration of peak hour tariffs and adjustments to peak hours can further optimise load distribution and maximise the efficiency of the power grid. To meet its RPO and its climate change objectives Tamil Nadu will have to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy generation. In order to manage the variable nature of wind and solar energy generation and of demand the grid management will require a higher degree of demand and generation flexibility services. 


Read the full report here: 

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