By shifting high-energy activities like charging electric vehicles to off-peak times, households can tap into savings with the scheme. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
FINDING ways to save money without compromising comfort or convenience can feel like a constant balancing act – especially when it comes to electricity bills.
But a small shift in your daily routine could lead to savings on one of your most essential monthly expenses with the introduction of Tenaga Nasional Bhd’s Time-of-Use (ToU) scheme.
The scheme aims to empower Malaysians to take control of their power usage and optimise their monthly bills by simply adjusting when they use electricity.
It’s a simple and effective way to reduce reliance on the grid and live more sustainably while simultaneously saving money.
Under the ToU scheme, the core principle is straightforward: Electricity rates vary based on the time of day.
During off-peak hours – typically late at night and in the mid-afternoon from 10am to 2pm – the tariff rate is lower.
Subsequently, during peak hours, when the usage demand is high, the rate is higher.
By shifting high-energy activities such as doing laundry, running air-conditioners or charging electric vehicles to off-peak times, households can tap into these savings without having to compromise on their lifestyle.
It’s a strategy that encourages you to work smarter, not harder to reduce your monthly electricity bills.
Switching to the ToU tariff scheme is straightforward, as applications can be made online through the myTNB portal. — Filepic
Shifting habits
Mei Chia, who lives alone, initially questioned whether the scheme would make a significant difference for a single household. However, she realised its broader potential for larger households.
“It’s a good scheme to reduce Malaysians’ burden, especially those who use less electricity during peak hours,” she noted.
“For larger households, I think it’s a good move to raise awareness on energy efficiency,” added the 45-year-old, highlighting that the scheme encourages collective effort to manage power usage.
Muhammad Daniel Ananthes Abdullah, who lives with his immediate and extended family in Cheras, attested to this, citing that his family has observed savings of up to RM15 since switching to the scheme.
“We have seen some savings since switching to ToU.
“It may not be a huge amount, but in the long run, I think it will have an impact on our expenses,” said the 29-year-old.
“But it has also made us a lot more aware of how and when we use our electricity, which is never a bad thing.”
Additionally, 60-year-old Chong Lai Kwan said that the adjustments required for the scheme are not a significant lifestyle change.
“It’s not really a big shift, especially for things like doing laundry, which we usually do on the weekends anyway,” she said.
“There are some small savings but over a long period, it can add up to a fair bit.
“As long as I plan my usage at the right times, it could save money.”
She noted that the scheme also brings attention to wasteful consumption habits that are often overlooked.
“Sometimes we take for granted switching on air-conditioners at any time of the day.
“We should be more aware of which electrical appliances consume higher amounts of electricity,” Chong added.
Smarter approach to energy use
Making the switch to the ToU scheme is more about small adjustments than a major lifestyle overhaul.
By making a few mindful changes, you can potentially maximise your savings and reduce your carbon footprint.
You can start by timing your high-energy activities. For instance, you can use your washing machine and dryer during off-peak hours.
Similarly, if you have an electric vehicle, you can charge it overnight when electricity rates are most affordable.
You could also adjust air-conditioning habits; consider pre-cooling your home before 8am and relying on fans during the peak hours, or use a timer to set a shorter cooling period overnight.
It is also wise to make a habit of unplugging electronics like TVs and chargers, as even when turned off, many devices in standby mode still draw power and contribute to your monthly bill.
In essence, the ToU tariff is designed to fit a wide range of lifestyles.
So, whether you’re a busy family, a work-from-home professional or a retiree, the scheme offers a flexible way to manage your electricity costs.
It’s not just about money but also about reducing energy waste while contributing to a more efficient and sustainable nation.
By taking simple steps today, you are joining the growing number of Malaysians who benefit from smart energy use.
It’s a move that saves you money, supports a more sustainable grid network and puts you in control of your energy consumption.
There are several ways to apply for the ToU scheme, including logging in to the myTNB portal at www.mytnb.com for online applications, sending an email to tnbtou@tnb.com.my or visiting the nearest Kedai Tenaga.
For more information, visit www.mytnb.com.my/tariff.
