Off-Peak Electricity Hours: When to Save on Your Bill

Off-peak electricity hours—when demand is lowest and rates are often cheaper—vary by utility, region, and season. However, general patterns exist:

Typical Off-Peak Windows

• Nightly: ~11 PM – 7 AM (most universal)
• Midday (shoulder): Weekdays 11 AM – 2 PM (in some markets)
• Weekends & Holidays: Often all-day off-peak
• Seasonal: Summer afternoons may be peak (AC load); winter mornings/evenings peak (heating)

Common Rate Structures

• Time-of-Use (TOU): Fixed daily schedule (e.g., PG&E, SCE)
• Real-Time Pricing: Hourly wholesale rates (e.g., ComEd)
• Critical Peak Pricing: Standard rates + surcharge on ~15 hottest days

How to Find YOUR Schedule

1. Check your utility's website ("rates," "time-of-use")
2. Read your bill—often includes a rate schedule insert
3. Call customer service
4. Search "[Utility Name] off-peak hours"

Maximize savings: Run dishwasher, laundry, EV charging, pool pumps during off-peak. Smart thermostats and home batteries automate this.