The hours
On a time-of-day plan, running the same appliance at a different hour can change its cost. Your measured usage tells us when the electricity was used.
SMUD & Portland General Electric
Know what
you’re paying
for.
Your electricity bill has a story.
The hours you use. The plan you’re on.
The charges in the small print.
Free to use. No account. Your usage stays with you.
From the rate deskFig. 01 / Same usage, two plans
Educational bill comparisonOne month.
SMUDOne month.
Two ways to pay.
CA
Time-of-Day$176.19
Price changes with the hour
Fixed Rate$198.68
Same energy price throughout the day
$22.49 between plans.
The timing makes the difference here.
Your own pattern can change the answer.
Follow the example, line by line ↗
Find your starting point
The name
on your bill.
Compare plans within the utility that serves your home.
The other charges
Fixed charges, adjustments, credits and local taxes belong in the calculation. Every included amount comes with its rate and source.
Your circumstances
Your meter, enrollment and service conditions affect which plans apply. If an important charge is unknown, the estimate stays visibly partial.
At your own pace
A clear view.
Then a decision.
Start with the published rate. Bring your own usage when you’re ready.
- 01
Get to know your rate
Read the prices, time windows and conditions in one place, with the official documents close at hand.
Open the rate directory → - 02
Work through your numbers
Import a usage CSV or explore a labeled example. Review the dates and charges before comparing eligible plans.
Open your calculation → - 03
Keep the explanation
Inspect the arithmetic, save a project on your device or print the calculation with its assumptions and sources.
Read the methodology →