Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the optimization of time-of-use electricity pricing policies in Zhejiang Province, aiming to better guide users in peak shaving and valley filling, promote renewable energy consumption, and adapt to changes in electricity load dynamics [8][11]. Group 1: New Time-of-Use Pricing Structure - The new time-of-use pricing structure includes adjustments to peak and valley periods, with morning peak hours shifted to a flat period and evening peak hours moved later [2][5]. - Specific time slots for different seasons are outlined, with peak hours for spring and autumn set from 16:00 to 23:00, and for summer and winter from 18:00 to 22:00 [3][12]. Group 2: Seasonal Adjustments - The policy introduces seasonal adjustments for commercial users, with the morning period from 7:00 to 11:00 now classified as flat, and the afternoon peak period extended [5][12]. - Major holidays will have specific low and deep valley pricing periods, such as 0:00 to 9:00 set as low valley during Labor Day and National Day holidays [13][14]. Group 3: Pricing Mechanism - The pricing mechanism will be based on the grid-connected electricity price, line loss costs, and system operation costs, with a floating ratio established for peak, high, flat, low, and deep valley pricing [14][15]. - The floating ratio is set at 2.05:1.85:1:0.4:0.2 for peak, high, flat, low, and deep valley periods respectively [14]. Group 4: Electric Vehicle Charging Policies - Electric vehicle charging facilities will follow the same peak and valley pricing structure, with adjustments to low valley periods to better align with commercial electricity pricing [15][16]. - Facilities with reverse discharge capabilities can voluntarily participate in grid interaction to respond to peak shaving demands and earn revenue [16]. Group 5: Dynamic Adjustment Mechanism - A dynamic adjustment mechanism will be established to respond to changes in electricity supply and demand, allowing for timely adjustments to peak and valley periods and floating ratios [17]. - Adjustments will be communicated to the public one month in advance if necessary due to supply-demand imbalances or unusual weather conditions [17]. Group 6: Implementation and Communication - The new pricing policy will apply to commercial users, while residential and agricultural electricity pricing will remain unchanged [11][18]. - The provincial development and reform department will enhance communication and interpretation of the new pricing policy to ensure smooth implementation [19].

Group 1: Time-of-Use Pricing Adjustments - The introduction of "deep valley" pricing in Jiangxi, a 70% reduction from flat rates, and a 65% reduction in Jiangsu's new afternoon valley pricing indicates a shift towards more refined time-of-use pricing policies [1] - The adjustments in time-of-use pricing are essential for transitioning the power system from "source following load" to "source-load interaction," aiming to enhance renewable energy consumption, ensure grid stability, and optimize user costs [1][2] - Shandong's innovative "five-segment" pricing policy, which includes a deep valley price during peak solar output hours, aims to encourage users to adjust their electricity consumption patterns [3] Group 2: Renewable Energy Consumption - As of March 2023, China's wind and solar power generation capacity reached 1.482 billion kilowatts, surpassing thermal power capacity, indicating a significant shift in energy generation [2] - The utilization rates for wind and solar energy were reported at 93.8% and 93.9% respectively for January-February 2025, showing a decline compared to the previous year, highlighting the challenges in matching supply and demand [2] - The implementation of time-of-use pricing is seen as a critical solution to address the increasing mismatch in electricity supply and demand due to the rapid growth of renewable energy installations [2] Group 3: Economic and Operational Impacts - The establishment of deep valley pricing during holidays in Hubei aims to encourage businesses to increase electricity consumption, thereby supporting economic activity and reducing costs [4] - The adjustments in pricing mechanisms redefine the value of electricity over time, facilitating a shift from passive acceptance of renewable energy to proactive management [4] - The "five-segment" pricing in Shandong is expected to significantly increase renewable energy consumption by 2.3 billion kilowatt-hours in 2024, demonstrating its effectiveness in load management [3] Group 4: Grid Stability and Electric Vehicle Integration - The growing peak-to-valley load difference in the grid, exacerbated by the rise of electric vehicles and air conditioning loads, necessitates a shift from rigid peak management to flexible regulation [5] - Hainan's adjustment of time-of-use pricing for electric vehicle charging aims to enhance grid stability and accommodate the increasing demand from electric vehicles [6] - Shandong's pricing mechanism for electric vehicle charging encourages users to charge during low-cost periods, potentially reducing annual charging costs by approximately 30% [7] Group 5: Future Outlook - The dynamic balance between renewable energy consumption, grid safety, and user economics is expected to evolve with the integration of time-of-use pricing, energy storage technologies, and virtual power plants [8] - The ongoing development of a new power system and the continuous upgrade of energy consumption structures will likely enhance the flexibility of time-of-use pricing mechanisms [8]