As energy costs continue to climb, Colorado homeowners are feeling the pressure—especially with Xcel Energy's proposed evening time-of-use (TOU) rate hike. This new plan would charge significantly more for electricity during peak evening hours, when families typically use the most energy. For those tired of watching the clock and turning off lights to save a few dollars, solar panel installation in Denver—both literally and figuratively.
By switching to solar power, you can save money, avoid rate hikes, and enjoy the freedom of using electricity when you need it most.
The Impact of Rising Evening Electricity Rates
Xcel Energy’s TOU rate structure is designed to charge customers based on when they use electricity. Under the proposed plan, the cost of energy will spike during the evening hours, from around 5 PM to 9 PM. These are the hours when households rely heavily on electricity for cooking dinner, running appliances, heating or cooling their homes, and relaxing after a long day.
For homeowners, this means higher bills unless they drastically reduce their evening energy consumption. Turning off lights, unplugging appliances, or timing household chores like laundry and dishwashing for non-peak hours might help—but at the cost of convenience.
Luckily, there’s a better way.
Solar Energy: Your Shield Against Rising Costs
Switching to solar power allows you to generate your own electricity, significantly reducing—or even eliminating—your reliance on grid electricity. Here’s why solar energy is the perfect solution for homeowners dealing with TOU rates:
- Generate Daytime Power and Store It for Evening Use
Solar panels produce energy during the day, and with a battery system, you can store that excess power to use when the sun goes down. This means you’ll rely less on grid electricity during those expensive evening hours. - Avoid Rate Hikes Altogether
Utility rates are always changing, and TOU plans are just the beginning. By going solar, you lock in predictable energy costs, shielding yourself from future price increases. - Enjoy Energy Freedom
With solar power, you don’t have to adjust your lifestyle around the clock. Turn on your lights, cook your meals, and enjoy your evenings without worrying about soaring electricity costs.
The Financial Benefits of Solar Power
The financial benefits of solar energy extend far beyond avoiding evening rate hikes. Here’s how going solar can save you money in the long term:
- Lower Monthly Bills: By generating your own electricity, you’ll see a dramatic reduction in your utility bills.
- Incentives and Tax Credits: Colorado homeowners can take advantage of federal tax credits, state incentives, and local rebates, significantly reducing the upfront cost of solar installation.
- Increase in Property Value: Homes with solar panels are more attractive to buyers and often sell for higher prices.
When you pair these benefits with the savings from avoiding TOU rate hikes, the financial case for solar power becomes even stronger.
Battery Storage Maximizes Your Savings
Consider adding a battery storage system to get the most out of your solar investment. Batteries allow you to store excess energy generated during the day and use it when electricity is most expensive. Systems like the Tesla Powerwall or other high-capacity storage options let you fully disconnect from the grid during peak hours, giving you the ultimate control over your energy costs.
Act Now Before Rates Go Higher
Xcel Energy’s proposed rate hike is a clear signal that energy costs are on the rise—and they’re unlikely to stop anytime soon. By going solar now, you can stay ahead of these increases, secure your energy independence, and save money in the long run.
Not only is solar energy a cost-effective solution, but it’s also an environmentally friendly choice that reduces your carbon footprint. With Colorado’s abundant sunshine, there’s never been a better time to make the switch.
Take Control of Your Energy Costs Today
Don’t let rising evening rates leave you in the dark—literally or financially. Contact Solar Side Up today to schedule a free consultation and learn how much you can save by switching to solar. From reducing your monthly bills to gaining energy independence, solar power is the smart choice for Colorado homeowners.
