Rates
Providing you with safe, reliable and affordable electricity.Introduction
BEMC is committed to providing reliable and affordable energy to its members. To ensure BEMC can continue to deliver the service you expect and adapt to evolving energy market conditions, a transition to a time-based price structure and an increase to the Base Facility Charge are being implemented on November 1.
Understanding Time-Based Pricing
Under a time-based pricing structure, the cost of electricity varies depending on the time of day it is consumed. Electricity will be less expensive during periods of lower demand (off-peak hours) and more expensive during periods of high demand (peak hours). If you can shift your energy use to off-peak hours, you can directly impact your monthly bill.
Peak & Off-Peak Hours
- Winter Peak Hours (October 16 – April 15): 6:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
- Summer Peak Hours (April 16 – October 15): 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
- New Residential On-Peak Rate (times when electricity demand is highest): $0.2150 per kWh
- New Residential Off-Peak Rate (times when electricity demand is lower): $0.0795 per kWh
Tips to Manage Your Energy Use
BEMC is committed to helping you navigate these changes and offer ways to save energy and money. Here are some strategies and resources to consider:
Utilize Smart Devices: Program your smart thermostats, water heaters, and other smart appliances to automatically operate during off-peak hours. Many devices have scheduling features that can help you optimize your energy use without significant effort.
Adjust Your Thermostat: Heating and cooling are often the biggest energy expenses. Lowering or raising your thermostat a few degrees during peak times can significantly reduce your bill.
Shift Energy-Intensive Activities: Try to run appliances like washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers during off-peak hours. If possible, delay tasks until after the peak periods.
Consider EV Charging Schedules: If you own an electric vehicle, schedule charging to occur overnight or during other off-peak times to take advantage of lower rates.
Monitor Your Usage with SmartHub: Our online portal and mobile app, SmartHub, allows you to track your daily and hourly energy consumption. This insight can help you identify peak usage times and make informed decisions about adjusting your habits.
Explore Our Energy Efficiency Programs:
- Connect to Save – Earn $50 upfront and $4 per month. Enrolling allows BEMC to make periodic adjustments to your thermostat during peak times.
- Off-Peak Advantage – This is an alternate rate option that allows members to save even more by shifting electricity use away from peak times.
- Customize Your Energy-Saving Plan – Improve your comfort and energy savings with a plan tailored to meet your needs.
Rate Schedule
For a comprehensive breakdown of the rates effective November 1, including the Base Facility Charge, per-kWh charges for peak and off-peak times, and other applicable fees, please click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the new pricing structure take effect?
Effective for energy consumed beginning November 1.
Why is BEMC changing to a time-based pricing structure?
To give members the opportunity to directly influence their monthly bills by utilizing power during lower-cost, off-peak periods. This is also how BEMC is billed for its wholesale power.
What is time-based pricing?
Time-based pricing means the cost of electricity will vary depending on the time of day, with higher prices during peak demand.
How can time-based pricing help lower my electric bill?
By shifting energy use to off-peak hours, when rates are lower.
What are the designated peak hours?
- Winter: 6:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. (Oct 16 – Apr 15).
- Summer: 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Apr 16 – Oct 15).
Why is BEMC implementing a Base Facility Charge increase?
This adjustment is necessary to address rising operational expenses and ongoing investments in infrastructure that ensure reliable service for all members.
How much will the Base Facility Charge increase?
The monthly Base Facility Charge is increasing from $29.75 to $35 for residential accounts beginning November 1.
Where can I find the new rate schedule?
Where can I learn more or get help?
Call our member services team at 800-842-5871.