An optional time of use rate will be available to Seattle City Light residential and small/medium business customers starting in mid-2025, the Washington State public power utility recently said.
With TOU rates, the price a customer pays for electricity depends on the time of day it is used. During off-peak times, when energy demand is low, electricity costs less. During peak times, when energy demand is high, the cost is higher.
This rate encourages energy use when electricity is less expensive, helping customers save money while supporting a cleaner, more efficient electric grid, the utility said.
Seattle City Light is building an online tool now to ensure that the TOU rate meets customer needs, it said.
The utility is working on the following:
- Simple sign-up option. Customers will be able to enroll quickly through the Utility Services Website.
- Helpful resources. The utility is creating a rate calculator and educational tools to help customers decide if the TOU rate is right for them.
- Comprehensive support. Seattle City Light staff are being trained to answer questions and guide customers through the sign-up process.
Seattle City Light noted that the TOU rate offers several benefits as follows:
- Adapting household routines to run appliances and charge electric vehicles during off-peak hours gives more control over how customers use electricity and can save them money.
- Using energy during off-peak times reduces strain on the system, helping to prevent overloads and possible power outages. This makes the grid more reliable and ensures there’s enough energy for everyone when demand is highest.
- By shifting energy use to off-peak times, the utility can rely more on renewable energy sources that provide steady power throughout the day.