Follow us on social media:

Have you heard about Red Eléctrica's transition to 15-minute intervals? This change aims to optimize the operation of the electricity system in Spain. But what does it mean and how might it affect you as a consumer? 

In this article, we explain what this change consists of, the implementation phases and what it will mean for users.  

 

What is the fourth hour?

Currently, wholesale electricity prices in Spain are calculated on an hourly basis. With the new model, allocations and settlements will be made in 15-minute intervals, also called "quarter hours." 

The change will be implemented in two phases: 

  1. December 2024: Red Eléctrica (REE) began settling deviations in 15-minute intervals, improving the accuracy of system balancing.
  2. First months of 2025: OMIE is expected to introduce trading at 15-minute intervals in the daily and intraday market, completing the transition. 

Objetivos del cambio

The fourth schedule will allow: 

  • Better efficiency: Adjusting supply and demand in shorter periods allows better management of energy resources.
  • Cost reduction:This level of accuracy reduces expenses associated with balancing the system, promoting a more competitive market.
  • European integration: Spain aligns with European standards, facilitating more efficient and economical energy exchange.
  • Promoting sustainability: This measure favors the integration of renewable energies, essential to move towards a greener future. 

Overall, this change optimizes the operation of the electricity system and reinforces market stability, benefiting both consumers and the system as a whole. 

 

How does this affect consumers

For most consumers, including Nordy customers, this change will not have a direct impact, especially if they have fixed rates.  

However, users with indexed tariffs, whose prices vary depending on the wholesale market, could benefit from more precise adjustments. For example, at times of low demand or high renewable supply, prices could be lower, reflecting more efficient operation of the system. 

The transition to the fourth hour is a key advance to improve the efficiency and sustainability of the Spanish electricity system. Although it will not have an immediate impact on electricity bills, but it lays the groundwork for a greener and more optimized system. 

If you have questions or need more information, don't hesitate to contact us. At Nordy, we continue to work to guarantee you peace of mind and confidence.  

Comparte este artículo:

También puede interesarte

The Future of Energy Communities

The well-known energy communities are playing a key role in a world seeking to transform its model...

Everything you need to know about contracting electricity in Spain as...

For expats, becoming familiar with the requirements and process for signing up for electricity...

27/11/2024

How to save light in winter without sacrificing comfort

Did you know that energy consumption is usually 36% higher in winterthan in summer? With...

20/11/2024

How to reduce energy consumption in your second home

Maintaining a second home can involve a higher expense than desired, especially if we take into...

13/11/2024

The Nordy Solar Wallet, how can I benefit from it?

At Nordy we want you to save on every energy action you take. On this occasion we present the...

Nordy expatriate benefits: what you need to know

At Nordy, we know that being an expatriate can bring many challenges. That's why we're here to make...

30/10/2024

The Future of Energy: Artificial Intelligence and Smart Homes

Can you imagine coming home and having the lights turn on automatically or the temperature...

23/10/2024

Energy for expatriates: How to choose the energy supplier for your...

Choosing a good energy supplier is critical for anyone, but it becomes even more challenging for...

16/10/2024

10 simple ways to reduce energy consumption at home.

Leaving the light on, taking long showers or using the dishwasher without being full are daily...

9/10/2024

Welcome to Nordy! The new era of Scandinavian energy.

Hello everyone! Today is a special day for us in ScandinavianElectricity. After a period of...

2/10/2024

Seven examples of green cities in Europe

1. Stockholm, Sweden. The first city to be named European Green Capital in 2010, stands out for its...

Pay your bills from your Customer Zone!

To get started, you need to register. If you haven't already, it's easy. Just enter your ID or...

10/09/2024

10 myths that make your electricity bill more expensive

1. Energy-saving light bulbs do not save as much: Reality: LED and energy-saving bulbs save...

3/09/2024

All about the Nordy Solar Wallet

Unlike physical batteries, the Solar Wallet does not store electricity in a tangible way, but acts...

10 reasons why opting for renewable energy is a good idea

Renewable energy, refers to energy obtained from natural sources that are continuously regenerated,...

The ABC of energy

A Aerogenerator: Installation that generates wind energy, consisting of a mast, propeller, turbine...

6/08/2024

Electricity trader vs distributor

What is an electricity distributor? Electricity distributors are responsible for the operation and...

30/07/2024

The easy guide to understanding your electricity bill

1. Invoice details Contracted product: Name of the electricity tariff you have contracted. Invoice...

23/07/2024