As always on the first of the month, household budgets are subject to several changes. This November sees a revamp of off-peak electricity hours, new limits on bank fees charged during estate settlements, and the first wave of energy assistance checks being distributed.

Redesigned Off-Peak Electricity Hours Roll Out

The new system of off-peak and peak electricity hours begins today, November 1st. New time slots have been implemented to better align consumption patterns with the demands of the electrical grid and to facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources, according to the National Energy Regulation Commission (NERC). Established in the 1960s, the off-peak hour system divides the day into 16 peak hours and 8 off-peak hours, during which households utilizing this type of energy consumption benefit from a reduced kilowatt-hour price.

Under the previous model, the 8 off-peak hours were primarily between 8 PM and 8 AM. The government assures consumers that they will still be able to benefit from 8 daily off-peak hours: overnight, for “at least five consecutive hours,” between 11 PM and 7 AM, and up to three hours during the day, between 11 AM and 5 PM.

These time slots are also scheduled to evolve seasonally: from April 1st to October 31st, households will benefit from “more daytime hours, to take advantage of peak solar electricity production,” the government indicates. From November 1st to March 31st, off-peak hours will be predominantly at night.

The NERC clarifies that “the distribution of peak and off-peak hours is not homogeneous across the country, and will differ between each customer.” Affected households (estimated at 11 million nationwide) will be notified of the changes by their provider at least one month in advance. These new arrangements are scheduled to be in effect until the end of 2027.

Capping Bank Fees After a Death

Following the death of a customer and the opening of their estate, banks are required to perform various duties, including an inventory of funds, communication with the notary, and the transfer of funds to the heirs. A new regulation, taking effect this month, places a cap on the fees banks can charge for these services, offering financial relief to grieving families during a difficult time.

First Energy Assistance Checks Arriving

Millions of low and moderate-income households will begin receiving their annual energy assistance checks this month. These checks, distributed through the national Energy Support Program, are designed to help offset the rising costs of heating and electricity during the winter months.