Peak load time windows (PLTW) refer to the forecast periods during which the grid loads are highest (e.g. because many consumers require electricity at the same time). They play a central part in the calculation of individual grid fees for final consumers under the Electricity Network Charges Ordinance (StromNEV).
50Hertz always determines its peak load time windows at the extra high and transformation level by means of a standard calculation method for all system operators that is imposed by the Federal Network Agency (BNetzA).
According to the BNetzA model, only working days (Monday - Friday) are to be considered as ‘peak load times’. Weekends, holidays and bridging days (May 10, 2024 and October 04, 2024) as well as the time between Christmas and New Year are considered as ‘power off’ time.
Spring: 1 March - 31 May
Summer: 1 June - 31 August
Autumn: 1 September - 30 November
Winter: 1 December - 28 February (leap year = 29 February)
The peak load time windows are adjusted annually.