Higher Summer Rates Kick In for PG&E Customers

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010118_thinkstock_bills

iStock/Thinkstock

Costs are going up for utility customers in Northern California. Summer rates are kicking in for Pacific Gas and Electric, meaning time-of-day pricing starting this week. For PG&E customers without an electric vehicle, there are two rate plans. The “everyday” rate ups the price between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. with some adjustments for where people live, primary heating source and the season. The other plan is a straight rate increase at a higher rate, but only between 5 pm and 8 p.m. on weekdays. People with an E-V can opt for a time-of-use rate which combines vehicle charging with your home electric bill. The other option separates the two but requires a second meter. For lowest cost, people are encouraged to charge their EVs during the off-peak hours of 11 p.m. to 7 a.m.