Most customers are being transitioned to a new pricing system called Energy Wise Rates. This system uses time-of-day pricing, meaning the cost of electricity changes depending on when it is used. Customers now have the option to lower their bills not only by reducing usage but also by shifting some of their energy consumption to different times of day.
Under the previous flat rate, savings could only be achieved by using less electricity overall. With Energy Wise Rates, customers can benefit from using large appliances outside peak hours.
The peak period for higher rates is set from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Friday. All other times, as well as weekends and most holidays, are considered off-peak with lower rates. In summer (June–September), rates increase due to higher demand; in winter (October–May), rates decrease when demand is typically lower.
There are additional options available beyond the standard Energy Wise plan. The Energy Wise Plus rate adds a “Saver” period from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. every day with even lower prices. Another alternative is the Seasonal Fixed Rate, which offers a consistent daily price—higher in summer and lower in winter—but this flat rate remains above off-peak Energy Wise levels.
The importance of avoiding peak hours stems from how electricity supply works. According to the utility: “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.” The company explains that they adjust power generation based on real-time demand rather than running at full capacity all day, which helps control infrastructure needs and long-term expenses.
Customers can save money by moving activities such as laundry or dishwashing to mornings or after 9 p.m., or by doing them on weekends when off-peak pricing applies. The use of small kitchen appliances instead of ovens or stoves can reduce energy use significantly—microwaves, toaster ovens, and slow cookers consume about half as much electricity as larger cooking appliances.
A smart thermostat can help manage home heating and cooling more efficiently; rebates are available for qualifying models: “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.”
Electric vehicle owners are encouraged to charge during off-peak periods for additional savings.
For further information or personalized analysis, customers can use online tools like the Energy Wise Appliance Tool and My Rate Tool via their account dashboard.
