Time of Use Rate Update
We plan to offer the Time of Use (TOU) Rate in fall 2025. Right now, we are creating a system to help you better understand and manage your energy use. This will include tools to show how much energy you use and help you choose the best rate for your needs.
Time of Use (TOU) Frequently Asked Questions
We plan to offer the Time of Use rate in fall 2025. Right now, we are creating a tool called Energy Insights to help you better understand and manage your energy use. This will include a rate calculator and educational resources to help you decide if the rate is right for you.
To ensure everything works smoothly, we are also focusing on:
- Easy ways for you to sign up
- Clear information about how the rate works
- Training our staff to support you
We want to make sure this program is ready and easy for you to use when it launches in 2025.
When enrollment opens, you can easily switch to the Time of Use rate through the Utility Services Website. We’re also creating a tool called Energy Insights that will include a rate calculator and educational resources to help you decide if the rate is right for you.
To get ready, make sure you have a profile on the Utility Services Website. If you don't have an account, sign up today!
We’ll provide clear instructions when it’s time to enroll. Stay tuned!
We’ll notify customers through multiple channels when the rate is available in 2025.
In the meantime, return to this page for updates.
- You must have an advanced meter (also called an Advanced Metering Infrastructure or AMI meter). An advanced meter is a digital meter that records your energy use every 5 or 15 minutes and sends the data wirelessly to Seattle City Light. This data allows City Light to bill you based on when you use electricity, not just how much you use, allowing you to take advantage of lower rates during off-peak hours.
- To check if you have an advanced meter:
- On your meter, look for a seven-digit number that starts with a "2" on the meter’s badge.
- On your bill, find the meter number under the "Detailed Billing Information" section. A seven-digit number starting with a "2" indicates it is an advanced meter.
- To check if you have an advanced meter:
- You must have a Utility Services Website profile. If you don't have an account, you can sign up today!
When enrollment opens, you’ll be able to choose the Time of Use rate through the Utility Services Website.
An advanced meter (also called an Advanced Metering Infrastructure or AMI meter) is a digital meter that records your energy use every 5 or 15 minutes and sends the data wirelessly to City Light using radio frequency waves. This is like the wireless communications used by cell phones and Wi-Fi. The meters transmit data for a maximum of 90 seconds per day.
To check if you have an advanced meter:
- On your meter, look for a seven-digit number that starts with a "2" on the meter’s badge.
- On your bill, find the meter number under the "Detailed Billing Information" section. A seven-digit number starting with a "2" indicates it is an advanced meter.
If you see these numbers, you have an advanced meter. Having one is necessary to participate in the Time of Use rate because the data allows City Light to bill you based on when you use electricity, not just how much you use.
The 2025 Time of Use rate will be available for eligible residential and small or medium business customers. Currently we are unable to offer the TOU rate to net metering customers, but we are exploring ways to make it available to them in the future.
If you’re a net metering customer looking to save on your bill now, you may qualify for these programs:
