When you use electricity can matter just as much as how much you use. Time-of-Use rates give you the opportunity to save by shifting some energy use to off-peak hours, when electricity costs less. Small changes can add up to big savings.
A TOU rate charges different amounts per kWh (the billing unit) during different times of the day. This is because electricity generation is more expensive during peak times of usage. Shifting your usage to off peak times can save you money and helps the electric grid by reducing the demand for electricity during the peak times and provides a monetary incentive to use more energy during off peak times.
On-peak hours: 5pm to 9pm Monday through Saturday
Off-peak hours: the rest of the time (including all day Sunday)
On-peak is defined as the hours during the day when electricity is most used and more expensive. Members on TOU rate pay more for energy used during peak hours compared to a lower rate paid during off-peak hours. View current rates here.
GCEA’s on-peak hours occur from 5 pm to 9 pm Monday through Saturday.
- Adjust your thermostat
- Consider investing in a programmable thermostat
- Program your thermostat to come on early enough to have your home warm by 5 pm
- Limit hot water use
- Consider placing a timer on your water heater that will help shift energy load
- Use high-wattage appliances like the dryer, washer, oven, and stove before or after the on-peak hours
- Use a toaster oven instead
- Use the delay on dishwasher
- Use a crockpot to cook meals
- Consider doing laundry on Sunday when there is no peak time
1.MEMBERSHIP. Applicant agrees to become a Member of GCEA and to abide with and be bound byGCEA's By-Laws, Rules and Regulations, and applicable policies that are in effect when electric serviceis provided, all of which are incorporated by reference into this Agreement.
2.SERVICE LOCATION. GCEA agrees to provide electric service to the specified service location("Service Location").
3.PAYMENT. Applicant agrees to pay for electric service provided by GCEA to the Service Location inaccordance with GCEA's Rules and Regulations and applicable rate tariff(s) that are in effect whenelectric service is provided, all of which are incorporated by reference into this Agreement.
4.TERMINATION. This Agreement shall terminate and GCEA shall discontinue providing electric serviceto the Service Location upon Applicant providing GCEA with notice that Applicant no longer wishes toreceive electric at the Service Location. By signing below, I(We) acknowledge that I (We) have read, understand and agree to the Terms and Conditions.
By reducing your demand during peak hours along with other GCEA members, you can help us keep your electricity rates down long-term and reduce pollution in our environment. If you are interested in switching to GCEA’s time-of-use (TOU) rate, please fill out the form.