Capacity fee

The growing demand for electricity may lead to a situation in which power plants will not be able to generate the needed energy. Therefore, the goal itself is to minimize the risk of serious energy deficits and prevent large-scale power outages. The most important means of achieving this is the storage of electricity reserves, which will make up for the power plant’s production shortfalls and thus meet current demand at times of increased demand. Unfortunately, in order to make up for energy shortages, it is necessary to obtain funds for the modernization and expansion of power plants, as well as the construction of new facilities. Such actions are aimed not only at replenishing the existing shortages, but in the long run also at stabilizing electricity prices by optimizing production in relation to demand. Funds for this purpose are to be provided by, among others: capacity fee, which warms up Poles because it has a noticeable impact on current bills.

Most of you have certainly noticed the changes introduced after January 1. What are we talking about? This is about the new fixed fee, introduced by the Power Act adopted by the Sejm in 2017, which came into force in the new year. From now on, we can observe an additional item on our accounts. But what is this amount and can we expect further increases in energy prices in the future because of this? Invariably, the final cost will depend on current and forecast electricity consumption, but also on the success of the program implemented. As long as the energy sector needs expansion due to production deficits, we can expect an increase in fixed fees affecting the bills of Polish consumers.

• The capacity fee for households whose current annual electricity consumption exceeded 2,800 kWh per year will amount to PLN 10.46 gross,
• Households consuming between 1,200 and 2,800 kWh of energy per year will have to pay PLN 7.47 gross,
• PLN 4.48 gross is a fee for households with annual consumption between 500 and 1,200 kWh,
• and the smallest fee of PLN 1.87 gross will be charged to those who consume less than 500 kWh of energy per year.

We think so. Especially due to the fact that an average single-person household consumes from 900 kWh of electricity per year, provided that energy-saving devices are used and care is taken to turn them off when not in use. It is assumed that each additional person generates energy demand of approximately 500 kWh, which for a family of four gives a range from 2,500 to 5,500 kWh per year! In practice, this means that most Polish houses will obviously not be able to take advantage of the lower fee thresholds.

To reduce your electricity bills, first look at the equipment you use on a daily basis. Modernization of home furnishings with higher energy class appliances, and above all, replacing the lighting with energy-saving ones and switching to a more conscious use of electricity, may, however, bring little tangible benefits if we have so far made it a habit to turn off the lights in an empty room and not leave electrical appliances (such as computer, TV or game console) turned on unnecessarily. In addition to changing habits and replacing equipment, it is worth investing in alternative energy sources that will make your family independent of constantly increasing electricity bills. Despite legislative changes, photovoltaics is still the most effective and profitable in this field. We would also like to remind you that only if you install photovoltaics by the end of this year, you can benefit from a prosumer contract valid for 15 years.

Are you frustrated by high electricity bills? Call us and take advantage of the professional advice of our consultants or check out our offer at www.b2b.ecoabm.com.