As a trusted rental property company in Colorado Springs, Hello Avenue is committed to keeping our tenants and community informed about important local updates. Starting October 1, 2025, Colorado Springs Utilities (CSU) will introduce a new “Energy Wise” time-of-day rate structure as the standard electric rate for most residential and business customers. This change, approved by the City Council on November 12, 2024, aims to encourage energy conservation and reduce strain on the electric grid during peak demand hours.
Here’s what you need to know to navigate this transition and potentially save on your electric bill.
What Are Time-of-Day Rates?
The Energy Wise time-of-day rate charges different rates for electricity based on when you use it. Peak hours, when electricity demand is highest, will be weekdays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. year-round. During these hours, rates will be slightly higher than the current standard rate. Off-peak hours—anytime outside this window, including weekends and holidays like New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, and Christmas—will offer lower rates. According to CSU, about 50% of customers could see lower bills by shifting high-energy activities, like running dishwashers or laundry, to off-peak times.
Why the Change?
This shift to Energy Wise rates is designed to be revenue-neutral, meaning CSU won’t increase overall revenue but will incentivize energy use during less demanding periods. By reducing peak demand, CSU hopes to delay the need for costly new power generation facilities, ultimately benefiting the community and environment. For tenants, this means more control over your utility costs by adjusting when you use major appliances.
How to Save with Energy Wise Rates
To maximize savings, consider these tips:
- Shift Usage: Run dishwashers, washing machines, or charge electric vehicles during off-peak hours (before 5 p.m. or after 9 p.m.).
- Use Timers: Set appliances to delay operation until off-peak times.
- Opt-Out Option: If time-of-day rates don’t suit your lifestyle, you can choose a seasonal fixed rate, which is higher than off-peak but lower than on-peak rates.
Stay Informed
CSU will notify customers at least 60 days before transitioning to the new rate, with full implementation expected by early 2026. For more details, visit CSU’s Energy Wise Rates page or contact them at (719) 448-4800. At Hello Avenue, we’re here to support our tenants with resources to make renting stress-free. Stay tuned to our blog for more updates on Colorado Springs living!
If you have any questions about Colorado Springs rental properties or your current property, please contact Hello Avenue.