Chapter 01 · Climate & transitionEnergy & Transition
Hourly matching
Definition
Hourly matching is the comparison of electricity consumption and supply attributes within each hour rather than only over an annual period.
References
This reference provides supporting context for how “Hourly matching” is defined and used.
Overview
What it means in practice
Hourly matching should be read as an energy-transition term. Its meaning depends on the technology, market, contract, grid boundary and emissions-accounting method.
In practice, users should state the boundary, method, instrument and evidence. That keeps hourly matching specific enough for review without turning it into a broader claim.
Why it matters
Hourly matching matters because energy language can mix physical supply, contractual instruments, timing and emissions claims. Clear boundaries help readers understand what is actually being changed or evidenced.
Common misconception
A common error is to treat Hourly matching as a complete decarbonisation claim. The stronger approach is to state the timing, location, instrument, technology and accounting boundary.
Review questions
What instrument, boundary or method gives the term meaning? What evidence supports it? What limitation would change how a reader interprets the claim?
How it is used
The term appears in climate strategies, transition plans, emissions inventories, scenarios and investment decisions, where governments, companies, investors and technical teams use it to classify, assess or communicate the comparison of electricity consumption and supply attributes within each hour rather than only over an annual period.
Its correct use depends on the relevant methodology, emissions boundary, baseline, timeframe and underlying data.