Shift Energy Use to Off-Peak Times to Save

Time-of-Use rate rewards customer flexibility. 

Looking for a way to manage your electricity costs? Consider MGE’s Time-of-Use (TOU) rate, also known as Shift & Save. It may be an easy way to save on your electric bill.  
 

What is Time-of-Use? 

Using electricity during “on-peak” hours puts a strain on the electric grid. These high-volume times occur when the majority of our customers are working, running household appliances and more. To help manage these busy times for our grid, MGE offers a TOU rate. If customers can shift significant electricity use from times of high demand to “off-peak” hours when demand is low, they can save.  

Off-peak hours are 9 p.m. to 10 a.m. Monday through Friday, plus all day weekends and holidays. On-peak hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekdays.  
 

Is Time-of-Use a good option for me? 

Think about your home’s major energy users—air conditioner, clothes dryer, water heater, dehumidifier, electric vehicle (EV). If you are willing to operate these energy users primarily during off-peak times, you likely are a good candidate for TOU. Typically, customers who can shift at least two-thirds of their use to off-peak will save.  

Additionally, if you have a solar array on your home, TOU likely will be beneficial. The electricity you use during the day comes primarily from the array. In the evening, when your array is not producing energy, you can take advantage of TOU rates. 

In contrast, you may not be a good candidate for TOU rates if you have electric heat. This is because it runs around the clock, making it more challenging to save with TOU. 

MGE’s Energy Experts are available through our Home Energy Line and can help answer questions about TOU. Call (608) 252-7117 or 1-800-245-1125 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Or, send an email to AskExperts@mge.com. 
 

FAQ  

Aren’t I automatically on the Time-of-Use rate?
No. You must sign up for TOU and commit to one full year. 

Does the Time-of-Use rate apply only to my EV?
If you choose TOU, it applies to all of your home’s electric consumption—not just the electricity you use to charge your EV. If you drive an EV, you can earn rewards by allowing MGE to manage your home EV charging through our Charge Ahead program. Drivers on standard rates can earn rewards, while drivers on the Shift & Save rate save on their energy bills. 

 

published: Aug-30-2023