Cheap electricity in Serbia – How to save 3 to 4 times on your energy bill?

In today’s world of rising energy prices and growing uncertainty, saving electricity is not just smart—it’s essential. If you live in Serbia, knowing when and how to use electricity efficiently can significantly reduce your monthly bills and help you manage your household budget better.

When is electricity cheaper in Serbia?

Electricity prices in Serbia vary depending on the time of day and your location. 

Here’s a breakdown of the cheaper electricity hours by region:

• Central Serbia: 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

• Vojvodina: 11 p.m. to 7 a.m.

• Belgrade: Midnight to 8 a.m.

Using electricity during these times, especially for heavy appliances, provides lower costs than "regular" electricity by three to four times.

How to save using cheap electricity

Big energy consumers

Many household appliances consume a lot of electricity, but their usage can be shifted to cheaper time slots:

• Washing machines & dishwashers: Run these appliances at night when electricity is cheaper. Always wait to have a full load to maximize efficiency. Lowering the washing temperature also saves money.

• Water heaters: Charge these during off-peak hours to keep your heating costs down.

• Refrigerators & freezers: Try to minimize how often you open the fridge, as each opening causes the temperature to rise, making the appliance work harder.

Small energy consumers

• Unplug devices: Chargers, laptops, and other electronics draw power even when not in use. Unplugging them reduces “phantom” energy consumption.

• Turn off when away: Always switch off TVs, computers, and other appliances when you travel or when they’re not in use for extended periods.

• Energy-efficient lighting: Replace traditional bulbs with LEDs—they use significantly less energy and last longer.

Energy Efficiency: Long-Term Savings

Beyond daily habits, improving your home’s energy efficiency can lead to substantial savings over time. Serbia has recognized this need and offers subsidies for energy-efficient home improvements, including:

• Better insulation: Proper wall and roof insulation reduces heat loss in winter and keeps your home cooler in summer.

• Quality windows & doors: Modern double or triple-glazed windows and sealed doors help maintain indoor temperatures and reduce drafts.

• Upgrading heating systems: Consider replacing old electric heaters with energy-efficient alternatives such as heat pumps.

• Solar panels: Installing solar panels can reduce your reliance on the grid and lower your bills in the long run.

Heating and energy bills in Serbia: What you should know

Heating in Serbia is often one of the biggest energy expenses during winter. Here’s how it typically works:

• Central heating: In most buildings with centralized heating, the heating cost is included in the communal bill (Infostan), not directly in your electricity bill. However, this can vary depending on your building’s heating system.

• Electric heating: If you heat your home with electricity—via electric stoves, heat pumps, or boilers—this will be reflected in your electricity bill. Using these devices during off-peak hours can save you a lot.

Start by shifting big appliance use to cheaper hours, unplugging unnecessary devices, and exploring local subsidy programs for home efficiency upgrades. With a bit of planning and awareness, you can take control of your energy costs and live more comfortably and sustainably.