Check the Hour Before Using Power
When you use electricity is as important as how much electricity you use. Rates are more expensive between 4-9 p.m. and cheaper at all other times.
Time-of-Use (E-TOU-C) vs. Tiered (E-1) Rate Pricing
You can save money by using electricity during the 19 off-peak hours of the day when power is cheaper because demand is lower and more solar and wind energy is on the grid.
Compare Rate Plans
Every household is unique, and so is the way you use energy. That’s why we offer a choice of rate plans. You can stay on your current rate plan or choose a different one. We encourage you to visit pge.com/TOUchoice for a custom rate comparison that shows the best rate for you. Please note that you must change your rate plan through PG&E.
FAQ
Before, on a tiered rate, the only way to reduce your bills was to simply use less electricity. On a Time-of-Use rate, you can lower your bill by shifting when you use energy to off-peak hours. This puts you in the driver’s seat so you can have more control over your bills.
Things to do during off-peak, lower price hours:
- Run appliances such as the dishwasher or laundry machines
- Run your air conditioner to pre-cool your home
- Charge your electric vehicle or battery storage devices
Things to do during peak, higher price hours:
- Turn your thermostat up, health permitting
- Turn off charging or unused devices such as televisions and computers
- Avoid charging your electric vehicle
Have questions about Time-of-Use?
Call PG&E at 1 (866) 743-7945 Monday – Friday from 9am – 5pm, or email MCE at info@mceCleanEnergy.org.