Heat pumps and electric cars reduce emissions

A heat pump emits less carbon dioxide than a boiler that runs on fossil fuels. Similarly, an electric car reduces emissions related to transportation, especially when powered by low-carbon electricity sources.

Electricity in France is largely low-carbon

In France, electricity is mostly generated from low-carbon sources, such as nuclear power and renewable energy. This supports the shift toward electrification in homes and transportation.

Electrification increases household electricity use

Switching to electric heating, hot water, and transportation increases a household's electricity consumption. However, this does not necessarily mean the cost per kilowatt-hour has gone up—it is the overall usage that changes.

Reviewing electricity contracts is important

New electrical equipment, such as heat pumps and charging stations, consume more electricity. Therefore, it is advisable to review the electricity contract and adapt it to the household’s new needs to manage the electricity bill effectively.

Power requirements may increase

A heat pump and a charging station can increase the power needed at home, especially when multiple devices are used simultaneously. A 6 kVA contract might be suitable before installing a charging station, but this may change with the addition of a heat pump.

Electrified equipment affects the contract

A heat pump increases electricity use, especially in cold weather. A charging station adds significant demand for several hours. A thermodynamic water heater increases hot water-related electricity needs. These factors influence the required power and contract adjustments.

Off-peak hours can reduce costs

A tariff that differentiates between peak and off-peak hours can be beneficial for households that can shift some of their electricity use to off-peak times. For example, an electric car can be charged during these periods, as can a water heater.

Choosing the right electricity offer

TotalEnergies offers electricity and gas to individuals in France, including a plan called Heures Éco Électricité that includes the peak and off-peak hours option. This can help households manage their electricity use based on their consumption patterns.

Financial aids and long-term costs

Aids like MaPrimeRénov' and CEE premiums can reduce the cost of installing equipment like heat pumps. However, these aids cover the initial investment, not the ongoing electricity costs, which depend on the household’s consumption and contract conditions.