More Than 1,000 Enroll in Time-of-Use Rates Program

Maui Now graphic. Background image credit: Wendy Osher.

More than 1,000 electric customers across the state have signed up for Hawaiian Electric Companies’ new Time-of-Use rates program.

As of Dec. 2, 2016, a total of 1,008 customers had expressed interest in the program, which charges customers less for power used during the day – when solar energy production is highest – and more at night.

The Hawaiʻi Public Utilities Commission set a limit of 5,000 customers for the program, meaning 20% of the total enrollment has already been reached.

Developed under the direction of the PUC, this program provides customers with an opportunity to save money if they shift their energy use to daytime hours. For example, customers who do laundry, cook, or heat water during the day may be able to save. Customers who charge electric vehicles or energy storage systems in the day may also benefit.

The amount of savings, if any, will depend on how much a customer can shift the use of electricity from night to day. As a result, company representatives say this program may not fit the needs of all customers.

As directed by the PUC, this program is voluntary and will run for two years. The rates are only available to residential customers.

Participating customers will receive information on their bills that compares their costs under this program and the standard residential rate for electricity. Customers may opt out of the program if they feel it isn’t the right fit for them.

To enroll or for more information, go to www.hawaiianelectric.com/timeofuse or call:

Oʻahu: (808) 548-7311
Maui: (808) 871-9777
Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi: 1-877-871-8461
Hilo: (808) 969-6999
Kona: (808) 329-3584
Waimea: (808) 885-4605