Off-Peak Charging Windows and DISCOM Demand Charges

Smart charging strategies that reduce electricity bills, optimize infrastructure and improve EV operators.

Why Smart Charging Strategy Can Save Commercial EV Operators Lakhs Every Year

As India’s electric mobility ecosystem grows, businesses are investing in EV charging infrastructure across offices, industries, malls, hospitals, fleet depots and residential communities.

However, many operators see their electricity bills rise unexpectedly-not because of higher energy consumption, but due to increased DISCOM demand charges during peak hours.

Off-Peak Charging Windows help shift charging loads to low-demand periods, reducing peak power demand and lowering overall electricity costs.

SIOTA Insight

Many businesses unknowingly trigger higher DISCOM demand charges duting peak demand periods. Off-Peak Charging Windows can help reduce these costs dramatically.

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Understanding DISCOM Demand Charges

Electricity bills for commercial consumers generally consist of two key components:

1. Energy Charges

Based on the total electricity consumed (units/kWh). The more electricity you use, the higher your energy bill.

2. Demand Charges

Based on the highest power demand (kW or kVA) recorded during the billing cycle - even if it lasts for just a few minutes.

Example

Example If a facility's peak demand jumps to 430 kW even for 20 minutes, DISCOM will calculate demand charges based on that peak value for the entire month!

Key Takeaways

Shift charging to off-peak windows to charges.

Peak demand impacts bills more than total energy consumption.

Smart load management optimizes infrastructure utilization.

Energy Management Systems (EMS) enable real-time optimization.

Businesses can save lakhs every year with intelligent charging.

Why Peak Demand Matters More Than Energy Consumption

Demand Charge Comparison

Facility	Monthly Consumption	Peak Demand	Impact on Bill
Facility A	60,000 kWh	210 kW	⬇ Lower Demand Charges
Facility B	60,000 kWh	430 kW	⬆ Higher Demand Charges

Both consume the same energy, but Facility B pays significantly more.

Ready to Optimize Your EV Charging Infrastructure?

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