Rate Plans for Arizona Homeowners to Save Big
5 min read
APS and SRP Rate Plans
Managing home energy costs in Arizona starts with understanding your electricity rate plan. With soaring temperatures, especially during summer, selecting the right Arizona Public Service (APS) or Salt River Project (SRP) plan can either cost or save you hundreds each year. That’s why this comprehensive breakdown of APS and SRP rate plans in Arizona is crucial for every homeowner seeking smarter energy use and serious savings.
Why Understanding APS and SRP Rate Plans in Arizona Matters
When it comes to energy costs in Arizona, it’s not just about how much you use—it’s when and how you use it. Rate plans have evolved from simple per-kWh billing to time-sensitive and demand-based pricing models. Whether you’re working from home, charging an electric vehicle, or just running your AC round the clock in July, your choice of rate plan matters—a lot.
The APS and SRP rate structures offer flexibility, but that flexibility can be a double-edged sword if not managed properly. This article walks you through each plan option to help you match one to your lifestyle. No guesswork. Just real savings.
APS Rate Plans: Tailored for Usage Patterns
Time-of-Use Plan (TOU-E): Pay Less for Off-Peak
If your household can shift most electricity usage to mornings, late evenings, or weekends, this one’s your golden ticket. With on-peak hours from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, avoiding usage during that narrow window could cut your bill by 30% or more.
| Time Period | Rate Impact |
|---|---|
| 4–7 p.m. Weekdays | High (On-Peak) |
| All Other Times | Low (Off-Peak) |
Time-of-Use with Demand Charge (R-3): Smart for the Strategists
This one is more complex. You pay based on both when and how intensely you use electricity. It’s perfect if you can prevent simultaneous use of high-energy appliances. Just avoid turning on the oven, washer, and AC at once between 4–7 p.m., and you’re golden.
Pro Tip: Use a smart home energy monitor to identify your highest usage hour—it’s often a game-changer.
Fixed Energy Charge Plan (R-1): Best for Unpredictable Schedules
If your energy use is consistent—or you have little flexibility due to family or work—this tiered plan provides predictable billing. There are no time-of-use restrictions, just simple usage tiers:
| Monthly kWh Usage | Tier |
|---|---|
| ≤ 600 | Small |
| 601–999 | Medium |
| ≥ 1000 | Large |
Electric Vehicle Plan (R-EV): Super Savings for EV Owners
EV owners rejoice—charging from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. means accessing the cheapest rates APS offers. Combine that with home solar, and you’re playing energy chess while others are stuck on checkers.
SRP Rate Plans: Local Options, Big Flexibility
Standard Price Plan (E-23): Simplicity is Key
Seasonal rates apply here, but there’s no pressure to shift usage by time. Just keep an eye on total consumption. It’s ideal for retirees, parents with young kids, or anyone who finds “peak hour awareness” annoying.
Time-of-Use Plan (E-26): Flex for Savings
| Season | On-Peak Hours |
|---|---|
| Summer | 2 p.m.–8 p.m. |
| Winter | 5–9 a.m. & 5–9 p.m. |
SRP’s TOU plan gives a longer window than APS but still allows off-peak savings. By shifting laundry, dishwashing, or EV charging to mornings or weekends, you could save big.
Super Peak TOU (E-21, E-22): Avoid a Narrow Window, Save More
If you’re typically out from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. (E-21) or 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. (E-22), this one’s your match. Just avoid heavy use during these hours and benefit from some of the lowest off-peak rates in Arizona.
Solar-Friendly and EV-Centric Options
Customer Generation Plans (E-13, E-14, E-15, E-27)
Solar panel owners are required to enroll in these plans. They determine how much you’re paid for excess solar energy sent back to the grid. Some plans come with demand charges, so manage your home battery wisely.
Electric Vehicle Plan (E-29): Power Up Cheaply
With super off-peak rates from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m., EV drivers can drastically cut down transportation and home charging costs. Pair this with smart charging stations that schedule charges automatically, and you’re winning the utility game.
Changing Your Rate Plan Is Easy
Here’s how:
- APS Customers: Call 602-371-7171 (APS Contact Page)
- SRP Customers: Call 602-236-8888 (SRP Contact Page)
APS and SRP Rate Plans for Arizona Homeowners
Navigating APS and SRP rate plans for Arizona homeowners doesn’t need to be a headache. Whether you’re working from home, driving an EV, or managing a bustling household, there’s a plan tailored to your life. The key lies in matching your routine with the rate structure. And the payoff? Lower bills, greater control, and a sustainable energy footprint.
Thinking Beyond Rate Plans? Go Solar and Unlock Even Bigger Savings
While choosing the right APS or SRP rate plan is a smart move, nothing gives you more control over your energy costs than going solar. Arizona homeowners who install solar panels not only reduce their monthly bills but also qualify for special customer generation plans that maximize their savings potential. With abundant sunshine year-round and generous state and federal incentives, there’s never been a better time to invest in solar energy.
Take the next step toward energy independence—get a free custom solar estimate today.
