Green Mountain Energy® Blog
How Time-of-Use Electricity Plans Help You Save Energy
In today’s energy-conscious world, people value finding ways to reduce their electricity bills while also supporting a cleaner environment. An easy and effective strategy is enrolling in a time-of-use (TOU) electricity plan. What are TOU electricity plans, and how can they help save both energy and money?
Understanding time-of-use plans
TOU electricity plans feature electricity rates that vary depending on the time of day. For example, the rate charged overnight will often be lower than the daytime rate.
Why the different rates? TOU plans tend to reflect the actual cost of generating and delivering electricity, which fluctuates based on demand.
One way to think of TOU plans is to divide the day into different rate periods:
- Peak hours: This is when electricity demand is highest — typically in the late afternoon and early evening.
- Off-peak hours: Off-peak hours are when demand is lower, such as late at night or early in the morning. Wholesale electricity costs are usually cheaper during these off-peak times.
Usage during lower-rate periods can mean lower electricity bills, but it also contributes to a more efficient and sustainable power grid.
By shifting your energy use to off-peak hours, and getting lower rates, you can not only save money but can also help reduce strain on the electrical grid.
In this way, TOU plans encourage smarter energy use by rewarding customers who consume electricity during times when it’s more abundant and less costly to produce. Even better, taking advantage of TOU plans usually doesn’t require major lifestyle changes.
Time-of-use plans from Green Mountain Energy
We offer two great TOU options: the Weekend Warrior and Pollution FreeTM All NighterSM plans.
The Pollution Free All Nighter plan offers FREE 100% renewable energy from 8 p.m. to 5:59 a.m., rewarding customers who use electricity during these off-peak hours. It’s an excellent option for night owls, EV owners or anyone looking to make a positive environmental impact without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
The Pollution Free Weekend Warrior plan provides 100% clean, renewable wind energy that's FREE from 8 p.m. Friday to 12 a.m. Monday. And for the weekdays in between, you get a fixed price.
How TOU plans support a greener grid
From an environmental perspective, TOU pricing supports the integration of renewable energy sources. For example, solar power is most abundant in the afternoon, which often coincides with off-peak or mid-peak periods. When you align your electricity use with these times, you can help reduce reliance on fossil fuels and support a cleaner energy mix.
During peak demand periods, the grid often relies on backup power plants that use fossil fuels. These plants can be more expensive to operate and often contribute to carbon emissions. By reducing peak demand, TOU plans can help minimize the use of these energy sources.
Off-peak usage, especially during sunny afternoons or windy nights, better aligns with the availability of renewable energy. This alignment makes it easier for utilities to incorporate clean energy into the grid and reduces the need for carbon-intensive backup power.
Tips for shifting your energy use
Making the most of a TOU plan doesn’t require a complete overhaul of your daily routine. Here are some simple, practical ways to shift your energy use to off-peak hours:
Laundry and dishwashing
Run your washing machine and dishwasher in the early morning or late evening. Many modern appliances have delay start features that make this easy.
Charging EVs
Use smart chargers or set timers to charge your electric vehicle overnight when electricity is typically cheapest. An added benefit of this routine is your EV is fully charged (or close to it) at the start of each day.
Thermostat settings
Pre-cool or pre-heat your home before peak hours begin. Smart thermostats can automate this process for you.
Cooking and appliances
Use smaller, more efficient appliances like microwaves or air fryers during peak hours. Alternatively, prepare meals with a slow cooker that runs during off-peak times.
Smart home technology can further simplify these adjustments. Smart plugs, smart thermostats, and energy monitors allow you to automate your energy use and track your consumption in real time. These tools make it easier to develop energy-saving habits that have a big impact — both financially and environmentally.
Choosing the right TOU plan
Before switching to a TOU plan, it’s a good idea to review your current energy usage patterns. Many companies offer online tools or smart meter data that can help you understand these routines.
TOU energy plans are especially beneficial for people who are home during off-peak hours or are willing to shift usage to this period. If you work from home, have a flexible schedule or simply want to be more energy-conscious, a TOU plan could be a perfect fit.
The opportunity of TOU plans
Aligning your energy use with off-peak hours can be a smart and simple way to save money and reduce your environmental footprint. TOU electricity pricing not only reflects the true cost of energy but also encourages more sustainable consumption habits.
By understanding TOU scheduling and making small changes, running appliances at night or charging your EV during off-peak hours, for example, you can take real advantage of time of use energy plans. TOU means it’s easy to see the best time of day to use energy: during off-peak hours when electricity is cheaper and cleaner.
Supporting sustainability doesn’t stop with TOU plans. Green Mountain Energy also offers a variety of renewable energy plans that help you power your home with clean electricity every day. Make the switch today and take a step toward a greener, more energy-efficient future.
Find a renewable energy plan that helps your home go green.
Enter your ZIP code to get started.
Blog Categories
Related Articles
FOLLOW US ON THE WEB