As demand for electricity increases, managing consumption becomes increasingly important. And it’s especially true during peak hours in densely populated areas like much of the Bay Area. Strategically scheduling when you run large appliances can save money, help stabilize the grid, and contribute to a more sustainable energy system.
About peak hours
Peak hours are the times when electricity demand is at its highest, which is typically highest beginning at about 4 p.m., as people are returning home from work until they start turning in for the night. Most residential electricity customers in MCE’s service area are on a time-of-use (TOU) rate plan. The TOU plan is a pricing structure where the cost of electricity varies depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the season. When electricity demand is highest during that evening window, electricity rates are also at their highest. Outside the 4−9 p.m. window, electricity costs less. TOU rates encourage electricity users to use energy during off-peak hours when demand is lower. Making this shift helps balance demand, creating a more sustainable grid and reducing your overall electricity costs.
Why you should limit appliance use during peak hours
The best generating hours for renewable energy sources, like wind and solar, typically occur during off-peak times. Solar energy is most abundant from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., while wind energy tends to peak between 8 p.m. and 4 a.m. However, when the sun sets and electricity demand is at its highest, solar energy production decreases, and fossil fuel plants often step in to meet the demand until wind energy ramps up later in the evening.
By reducing energy consumption during these peak periods, we can lessen our reliance on fossil fuel power plants, contributing to a more stable and sustainable power grid. Until large-scale battery storage becomes more widespread, we can help support the grid during peak hours by limiting the use of large appliances.
Tips to reduce consumption during peak hours
- Check the time. Schedule your high-energy appliances, like dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers, to run during off-peak times. Use auto timers where available, or manually set the appliances to operate when energy demand is lower. For example, start the dishwasher before you leave for work or set the washing machine to run after midnight so that the clothes are ready to move to the dryer in the morning. Consider using a slow cooker for dinner; start it in the morning before you leave, so that you come home to a warm, ready meal.
- Use smart thermostats. Invest in a smart thermostat that can automatically adjust your home’s temperature based on your schedule. In the summer, set the thermostat a few degrees higher during peak hours; in the winter, set it a few degrees lower. This action helps reduce energy consumption when demand is high and can save you money.
- Switch to LED lighting. LED bulbs not only use significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, but they also last much longer. Equipping your home with LED lighting saves on your energy bill. If you qualify for MCE’s Home Energy Savings Program, you could get a free home energy assessment and upgrades such as LED lighting, smart thermostats, and insulation to help reduce energy consumption.
- Be energy-efficient. Replace old appliances with energy-efficient models that consume less power. Unplug devices like chargers, computers, and kitchen appliances when you aren’t using them, or use power strips to easily switch them off.
Begin making these adjustments today and share them with others. Collective small changes can lead to significant and positive impacts on the environment, the grid, and your home.
Blog by Madeline Sarvey
