Time-Of-Use Rates

Time-of-Use (TOU) rates mean the price of energy differs based on the time of day. By shifting some electricity usage to times when energy costs less and demand is down, you can lower your bill and support a healthier environment.

Choosing the Right Rate

We encourage you to make sure you’re on the best rate for your energy use patterns. PG&E provides a rate comparison tool, which allows you to see how your bill could change on various rates plans available to you. After you’ve reviewed your options, you can change your rate on PGE.com. PG&E will notify EBCE and you’ll soon see your updated rate plan for both delivery (PG&E) and generation (EBCE). EBCE’s charges for generation service will be on the same schedule as PG&E’s charges.

Default Business TOU Rates (B-Rates)

PG&E and EBCE’s commercial and industrial business rates encourage customers to use energy when it is cleanest and cheapest. These rates, the “B-Rates,” became mandatory for most businesses in March 2021. The on-peak price will shift from mid-day to early evening, from 4–9PM.

TOU B-1 rate charts*

Summer total rates (generation + delivery)
Rates are 27% higher at peak times (4–9PM), and 8% higher at part-peak times (2–4PM, and 9–11PM)

Winter total rates (generation + delivery)
Rates are 7% higher at peak times (4–9PM), and 7% lower at super off-peak times (9AM–2PM)

New Default Agricultural (AG) Rates

PG&E and EBCE’s agricultural rates are shifting to encourage customers to use energy when it is cleanest and cheapest. While some agricultural accounts have previously been enrolled in time of use rates, existing time periods and seasons have shifted and are not the same as the new AG-rates customers will be transitioned to. These rates will become mandatory for most agricultural customers as of March 2021.