Topic: Peak Demand

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen proposed mandatory targets for reducing electricity use during peak hours to "flatten the curve" of energy demand. The strategy involves member states enforcing reductions to avoid the use of expensive gas-powered energy. Comparisons are drawn between these energy mandates and previous COVID-19 lockdown measures.

The EU's first measure for the energy crisis is "smart saving," which involves reducing electricity use during peak hours, typically between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Similar efforts are noted in California, where residents receive alerts to avoid using dishwashers and washing machines during high-demand periods. Critics argue these measures are manufactured and place an unfair burden on households.