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PG&E peak hours: why 4 to 9 p.m. matters
Most PG&E customers pay different prices depending on the time of day. Here is when electricity costs the most, how the main plans compare and how solar and a battery help you avoid peak prices.
Most homes are on time-of-use
PG&E began moving many residential customers to its Time-of-Use plan, E-TOU-C, in October 2020. On E-TOU-C, peak hours are 4 to 9 p.m. every day, including weekends and holidays. Every other hour is off-peak and costs less.
If you get your power from a CCA (Community Choice Aggregator), its generation charges follow the same time-of-use schedule as your PG&E plan.
The main PG&E plans
| Plan | Peak hours | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| E-TOU-C | 4–9 p.m. every day | The default plan for most homes |
| E-TOU-D | 5–8 p.m. weekdays | Shorter peak, weekdays only |
| Electric Home (E-ELEC) | 4–9 p.m. every day, plus partial peak 3–4 p.m. and 9 p.m.–midnight | For homes with an EV, battery storage or an electric heat pump. Includes a monthly Base Services Charge |
Seasons matter too. Summer runs June through September, and winter runs October through May.
Why peak hours matter for solar
Solar panels make the most power at midday. Peak prices start at 4 p.m., just as the sun fades. Without a battery, your home buys power from the grid during the most expensive hours.
Under California’s Net Billing rules, credits for the solar you send to the grid are usually lower than what you pay for grid power. The CPUC notes that adding a battery helps you get the most from solar. A home battery stores your midday solar so your home can use it from 4 to 9 p.m.
Simple ways to avoid peak prices
- Run the dishwasher and laundry before 4 p.m. or after 9 p.m.
- Charge your EV overnight or midday.
- Pre-cool your home in the early afternoon on hot days.
- Let your battery cover the evening hours.
Every home is different. Our free assessment uses your real bills to show what solar and a home battery could do for you. You can also try our savings calculator.
Common questions
Are PG&E peak hours the same on weekends?
On E-TOU-C and Electric Home, yes. Peak is 4 to 9 p.m. every day. On E-TOU-D, peak is 5 to 8 p.m. on weekdays only.
Can I switch rate plans?
Yes. PG&E lists its residential rate plans on its website, and some plans, like Electric Home, have equipment requirements.
Sources: PG&E Time-of-Use plans, PG&E rate plan pricing, PG&E Electric Home, PG&E Time-of-Use FAQ, PG&E rate plan options, Ava Community Energy, CPUC Net Billing.
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