We’re in the process of transitioning most customers to Energy Wise Rates. With these time-of-day rates, you pay different prices for electricity depending on when you use it, giving you more control and more ways to save.
With our previous flat rate, the only way to lower your electric bill was by using less electricity. Now, with Energy Wise rates, you can lower your electric bill by shifting when you use some of your large appliances.
How it works
-
On-Peak: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m., Monday–Friday
-
Off-Peak: All other times, weekends and most holidays
-
Summer rates (June–September): Higher when demand is highest
-
Winter rates (October–May): Lower when demand is lower
Although Energy Wise is the standard electric rate, you may be able to opt-in to other rate options:
-
Energy Wise Plus: Adds an extra “Saver” period (9 a.m.–1 p.m. everyday) with even lower rates.
-
Seasonal Fixed Rate: A flat rate for the entire day that is higher in summer and lower in winter. The flat rate is set higher than off-peak Energy Wise rates.
Why the peak is important
Not all electricity is created equal. On weekdays from 5-9 p.m., demand spikes - and so do costs. As a community-owned utility, those higher costs are shared by everyone.
We don’t generate power at full capacity 24/7. Instead, we try to match generation to demand. When many people use electricity at once, we hit a peak demand. New peaks require more infrastructure, which can lead to higher costs long-term.
How to save
Shift some of your electric use before 5 p.m. or after 9 p.m. on weekdays. The more you shift, the more you save. Here are some of the top tips:
-
Do laundry on weekends: On weekdays, you can also save by starting the washer or dryer in the morning, or after 9 p.m. Skip the dryer all together and hang clothes to dry them.
-
Set your thermostat for savings: Use a smart thermostat to control your use when home and switch to an energy-saving mode when away. We offer a $50 rebate on qualified models.
-
Small appliances save in the kitchen: Microwaves, toaster ovens and slow cookers typically use 50% or less electricity than a stove or oven. Bonus: if you already meal prep on the weekends, this will also save electricity during the week.
-
Clean dishes, lower cost: Run the dishwasher in the morning, after 9 p.m. or anytime on the weekend.
-
Power up savings: Charge electric vehicles during off-peak times.
To learn more, check out the Energy Wise Appliance Tool and the My Rate Tool. To access the My Rate Tool:
- Login to My Account.
- Select "Billing and rates".
- Select "My Rate Tool".
