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title: "A1 vs. time-of-use plans: when cheap energy helps batteries" description: "How basic and time-of-use tariffs influence battery savings, including forced-charging in winter." lastUpdated: "27 Feb 2026"

A1 vs time-of-use: which plays nicer with batteries?

On a flat A1-style tariff, the battery's job is simple: shift excess solar into the evening to avoid imports. On time-of-use plans, off-peak periods can make forced-charging viable in winter or low-solar days, so you still cover the evening peak.

Simple framework

1. If your PV is strong year-round → battery draws mostly from solar.
2. If your PV is winter-limited → consider a ToU plan and enable forced-charge in cheap windows.
3. If your loads are day-time heavy (WFH, workshop) → you may prefer a smaller battery; let PV run the day.

Tip: Don't forget export limits. If you regularly clip exports, a battery can catch that energy for later—worth more than a low daytime buyback.