The price of electricity saw a significant increase on April 1, 2025, marking the start of the month with a notable rise in costs. According to the Iberian Electricity Market Operator (OMIE), the average tariff climbed to 58.6 euros per megawatt hour (MWh), a stark contrast to the negative pricing periods that consumers experienced just hours earlier.
For those managing tight budgets, the recent surge in electricity prices presents a considerable challenge. Understanding the hourly rates can help consumers navigate their energy usage more wisely. The most expensive time for electricity consumption on April 1 was from 08:00 to 09:00, with a staggering price of 159.37 euros per MWh. This spike in costs is particularly concerning for households that rely heavily on energy-intensive appliances.
Interestingly, the cheapest times to use electricity on this day were between 14:00 and 18:00, during which the prices dipped into negative territory. This unusual pricing structure means that consumers could potentially benefit from using their most energy-hungry devices during these hours, effectively reducing their overall electricity costs.
Throughout the day, electricity prices fluctuated significantly. The price from 00:00 to 01:00 was set at 90 euros/MWh, followed by a gradual decrease until it reached 0 euros/MWh from 12:00 to 13:00. This brief period of no cost highlights the importance of timing in energy consumption. As the day progressed, prices began to climb again, surpassing the 100 euros mark from 20:00 to 22:00.
To help consumers make the most of these variable rates, experts recommend adjusting the thermostat settings on household appliances. For instance, setting the refrigerator temperature between 4 and 6 degrees Celsius can lead to significant savings. This simple adjustment can help mitigate the impact of rising energy costs.
In terms of specific appliances, the dishwasher is one area where consumers can save significantly. The Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU) suggests that using an economical program at 50 degrees Celsius instead of 60 degrees can save up to 20% on energy costs. Many families might not realize that waiting until the dishwasher is full before running it can also contribute to savings, as the half-load program does not save much energy.
Similarly, the washing machine and dryer can be optimized for energy efficiency. Utilizing the coldest wash settings and faster spin cycles can reduce energy consumption. Additionally, finishing the drying cycle before ironing can save on energy costs, as it prevents unnecessary heating.
Television usage is another area where many households can cut back. With Spaniards spending over three and a half hours a day watching TV, this activity can account for up to 12% of a household's energy consumption. Experts recommend disconnecting the television completely when not in use rather than leaving it on standby, as the latter can consume as much energy as a fully operational computer.
Cooking appliances, particularly ovens, are known for their high energy consumption. The article notes that preheating the oven is unnecessary for cooking times longer than an hour, which can save energy. Moreover, opening the oven door frequently can lead to a significant loss of heat, making cooking less efficient.
In summary, the electricity market is experiencing fluctuations that can impact household budgets, particularly with the recent increase in tariffs. Consumers are encouraged to be proactive about their energy usage by adjusting appliance settings and being mindful of peak usage times. With the right strategies in place, it is possible to navigate these rising costs effectively.
As the month of April progresses, consumers are advised to stay informed about the hourly rates and make adjustments to their energy consumption habits. By doing so, they can minimize their electricity bills and adapt to the changing market conditions.
