Summer bills climbing as the afternoons heat up? In Moreno Valley, when you use electricity can matter as much as how much you use. Time-of-Use plans reward you for shifting power-hungry tasks outside late-afternoon peak hours, which can lower your summer costs without sacrificing comfort. This guide shows you simple steps, local programs, and smart tools that work here in Moreno Valley. Let’s dive in.
What TOU means in Moreno Valley
Parts of Moreno Valley are served by Southern California Edison, and other areas are served by the City’s Moreno Valley Electric Utility. Check your bill to confirm your provider, since rates, tools, and rebates differ. You can review MVU’s services and programs on the city’s Moreno Valley Electric Utility page.
SCE’s common residential TOU plans have summer on-peak windows that often fall between 4 and 9 p.m. Shifting use outside that window can reduce costs. You can see plan details on SCE’s Time-of-Use rate plans.
On the hottest days, California’s grid operator asks residents to conserve during late afternoon and evening. Pre-cooling and avoiding heavy appliance use during those hours support the grid and your bill. Learn more from CAISO’s overview of Flex Alerts and recommended actions.
Quick wins to lower your bill
Pre-cool and adjust the thermostat
Cool your home earlier in the day, then raise your thermostat a few degrees during peak hours so your AC runs less when rates are higher. A programmable or smart thermostat makes this set-and-forget. For guidance on schedules and setbacks, see the Department of Energy’s tips on thermostats and energy savings.
Shift appliance use off peak
Run the dishwasher, laundry, and any large cooking or baking during mornings, midday, or after 9 p.m. If you have a pool, schedule the pump to run in off-peak windows. These changes reduce peak-hour demand and can add up through the summer.
Use shade and fans
Close blinds and drapes during the hottest part of the day to cut heat gain. Use ceiling or portable fans so you can raise the thermostat and stay comfortable.
Turn on smart automation
Smart thermostat credits
A smart thermostat can pre-cool automatically, raise the set point during peak hours, and enroll in demand-response events for bill credits. SCE customers can review eligibility and seasonal incentives in the Smart Energy Program.
EV charging schedules
If you drive an EV, schedule charging overnight to capture lower off-peak rates. SCE’s EV-focused plans are designed for this kind of charging behavior. Explore options on SCE’s electric vehicle rate plans.
Programs and rebates to consider
- If you are with SCE: compare plans using SCE’s Rate Plan Comparison Tool. Many homes benefit most when they can move big loads outside 4 to 9 p.m.
- If you are with MVU: MVU offers a residential TOU option plus efficiency and EV programs, and requires TOU for many new solar or storage systems. Start on the Moreno Valley Electric Utility page for current offerings.
- Considering batteries with solar: California’s Self-Generation Incentive Program provides significant battery incentives for qualifying homes. Check eligibility and budgets on the CPUC’s SGIP page.
- Watch your water use: Eastern Municipal Water District uses budget-based, tiered water rates. Watering in the early morning can reduce evaporation and avoid running electric irrigation pumps in peak hours. Review EMWD’s water budget and tiered rates.
Moreno Valley homeowner checklist
Confirm your electricity provider. Look at your bill to see whether you are with SCE or MVU, since each offers different TOU plans and tools.
Review your usage. Log into your utility account to see hourly or daily patterns and identify when your use peaks. If you are with SCE, test scenarios in the Rate Plan Comparison Tool.
Set a summer schedule. Pre-cool earlier in the day, then raise your thermostat a few degrees during peak. Shift dishwashing, laundry, and pool pump runs to off-peak hours. Follow CAISO Flex Alert guidance during heat waves.
Enroll in programs. Connect a smart thermostat for demand-response credits if eligible. EV drivers should choose an EV-friendly TOU plan and schedule charging overnight.
Plan upgrades. If you are exploring solar plus battery or high-efficiency HVAC, get multiple quotes and check incentives on the SGIP program page before you buy.
Why this matters when you buy or sell
Energy-smart homes stand out. Many agents and brokers report that promoting energy efficiency adds value in listings and marketing. You can see this trend reflected in the National Association of Realtors’ coverage of energy efficiency in listings. Simple TOU habits and the right programs can help your home show better, feel more comfortable, and operate more affordably.
If you want local, one-on-one guidance on which improvements resonate with Inland Empire buyers, reach out. With 25-plus years of neighborhood experience, I can help you prioritize upgrades that make sense before you list or after you buy. Connect with Casey Garduno to talk through your goals.
FAQs
What is a Time-of-Use plan in Moreno Valley?
- A Time-of-Use plan charges different rates by time of day. In summer, peak hours often fall in the late afternoon and evening, so shifting use outside those hours can lower costs. Check SCE’s TOU plans or MVU resources to confirm your peak windows.
How do I know if I am with SCE or MVU?
- Look at your electric bill. Some addresses are served by SCE and some by the City’s utility. You can also review the city’s MVU page for contacts and service details.
Will switching to TOU always save me money?
- Not always. Use your utility’s tools to compare plans with your actual usage. SCE customers can model options in the Rate Plan Comparison Tool before switching.
What should I run during off-peak hours?
- Run dishwashers, laundry, pool pumps, and EV charging outside peak hours when possible. Pre-cool your home earlier in the day, then raise the thermostat a few degrees during peak. The Department of Energy’s thermostat guidance can help you set schedules.
Are there incentives for batteries or smart thermostats?
- Yes. SCE offers credits for eligible smart thermostats through the Smart Energy Program. For batteries, review eligibility under the CPUC’s Self-Generation Incentive Program.
