Understanding Peak Hours

SDGE uses Time-of-Use (TOU) rates that vary based on when you use electricity. Understanding these periods can help you save significantly on your energy bills.

On-Peak

4 PM - 9 PM daily

Highest energy demand and most expensive TOU rates

Smart Usage Tips:

• Avoid running major appliances
• Pre-cool your home before peak hours
• Use smart plugs to automatically control devices
• Consider battery storage to avoid peak rates

Off-Peak

Three-period plans: 6-10 AM, 2-4 PM & 9 PM-12 AM weekdays; 2-4 PM & 9 PM-12 AM weekends/holidays

Moderate energy demand and standard rates

Smart Usage Tips:

• Good time for laundry and dishes
• Charge EVs if super off-peak isn't available
• Run pool pumps and other equipment
• Regular household activities acceptable

Super Off-Peak

Three-period plans: 12-6 AM & 10 AM-2 PM weekdays; 12 AM-2 PM weekends/holidays

Lowest energy demand and cheapest rates

Smart Usage Tips:

• Best time to charge EVs
• Schedule battery storage charging
• Program smart appliances
• Set pool pumps to run

Seasonal Rate Changes

Summer

(June 1 - October 31)

Higher rates overall due to increased cooling demand

• Peak hours have highest annual rates
• Larger price difference between peak and off-peak
• AC usage significantly impacts bills
• Critical to manage peak time usage

Winter

(November 1 - May 31)

Lower rates overall due to reduced energy demand

• Smaller difference between rate periods
• Peak hours still higher but less extreme
• Good time to establish usage habits
• More flexibility in timing energy use

Plan and Holiday Notes

Most SDGE residential Time-of-Use plans with three pricing periods include the 10 AM-2 PM weekdaysuper off-peak window. TOU-DR2 is the common two-period exception: 12 AM-4 PM and 9 PM-12 AM areoff-peakevery day, with no separate super off-peak period. SDGE holidays follow the weekend/holiday schedule and include New Year's Day, President's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.

Maximizing Your Savings

The key to saving money with Time-of-Use rates is shifting your energy use to less expensive periods whenever possible. Here are some effective strategies:

Use Smart Technology

• Program thermostats to pre-cool before peak hours
• Use smart plugs to control devices automatically
• Set timers on pool pumps and water heaters

Plan Your Day

• Do laundry and dishes in super off-peak or off-peak hours
• Charge devices overnight
• Cook outside or use a microwave during peak hours