Time Of Use (TOU)

Time-of-Use (TOU) Optimization

Take Control of When You Use — and Pay for — Energy

If you’re a PG&E or SMUD customer, you’re probably already on a Time-of-Use (TOU) rate plan — where the price of electricity changes depending on the time of day. That means using power in the evening can cost up to 2–3× more than during the day.

At Menderix, we help homeowners and businesses take advantage of TOU rates instead of falling victim to them. Whether you have solar, battery storage, or just want smarter energy habits — we design systems that save you money, every hour of the day.

Why TOU Matters in Sacramento Area

  • Peak Rates = High Bills. In Sacramento, TOU plans charge the highest rates between 4 PM and 9 PM — right when most families are home, using AC, cooking dinner, and watching TV.
  • Solar Alone Isn’t Enough. Without battery storage or smart usage strategies, your solar panels can’t help you after sunset — when electricity is most expensive.
  • Even EV Charging Can Hurt. Plugging in your electric car at the wrong time could double your charging cost. But with the right setup, you can charge smarter and cheaper.

How We Help You Save

Our TOU optimization services are built around your lifestyle and goals:

Solar + Battery Design
We size and configure your system to store excess solar energy during the day and use it during peak hours — cutting down your grid usage when rates are highest.
Smart Load Shifting
We recommend ways to shift large loads (laundry, dishwashing, EV charging) to cheaper hours — often with automation or scheduling tools you already have.
System Monitoring & Alerts
Want to stay on top of your usage? Our monitoring service gives you real-time feedback, so you can make smarter decisions — or we can adjust it for you.

Is TOU Costing You More Than It Should?

If you’ve noticed higher bills even with solar — you’re not alone. Many Sacramento-area homeowners don’t realize:

  • “My solar panels produce great power during the day… but I’m still paying a lot at night.”
  • “Why is my bill higher now than before I had solar?”
  • “I didn’t know PG&E or SMUD would switch me to TOU automatically.”

We walk you through how TOU works, where your energy is going, and how to make your system (and habits) work for your wallet — not against it.

Built for Sacramento Area

We help homeowners in:

  • Sacramento
  • Elk Grove
  • Folsom
  • Roseville
  • Rocklin
  • West Sacramento
  • Davis
  • Rancho Cordova
  • Citrus Heights
  • …and surrounding areas

PG&E or SMUD, we’ve got you covered.

Ready to Stop Overpaying for Evening Power?

TOU optimization can cut your bill — without changing your lifestyle. Let’s design a plan that fits your home and schedule.

Menderix Inc — Smarter Solar. Smarter Storage. Smarter Timing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Time-of-Use (TOU) rate plan?

TOU rates mean the cost of electricity changes depending on the time of day. Electricity is usually more expensive during peak hours when demand is highest.

Why does TOU matter if I have solar panels?

Understanding TOU helps you save more by using your solar energy and battery when electricity prices are highest, maximizing your savings.

How does TOU affect my electricity bill?

Your bill depends not just on how much electricity you use, but when you use it. Peak hours can cost 2–3 times more than off-peak hours.

How does Menderix help optimize energy use with TOU?

We design solar and battery systems to shift your energy use to cheaper times and store excess solar power for use during peak rate hours.

What are the typical peak hours for SMUD and PG&E customers?

Peak hours usually run from about 4 PM to 9 PM, when electricity rates are at their highest.

Can I use a battery storage system to save money on TOU rates?

Yes! Batteries store your solar energy during the day and discharge it during peak hours, helping reduce your electricity costs.

What does “load shifting” mean with TOU and solar?

Load shifting means using stored or solar energy during peak hours to avoid buying expensive electricity from the grid.

Do you offer systems that automatically manage energy use based on TOU rates?

Absolutely. Smart solar and battery systems can automatically optimize when to use or store energy to save you the most money.

How do changes in TOU rates impact my solar system?

We monitor PG&E and SMUD rate changes and adjust your system setup to ensure you always get the best savings possible.

Will I need to upgrade my solar system for TOU rates?

Sometimes adding battery storage or system upgrades can help you fully benefit from TOU pricing. We’ll help you find the best options for your home and budget.

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Solar technician standing confidently in front of a Sacramento home with rooftop solar panels installed.
Residential home in Sacramento with rooftop solar panels installed on multiple roof sections.

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