AZ Find the Right Electric Rate Plan for You

Utility bills are a pocketbook issue for Arizonans, and AARP Arizona is fighting to keep your utility rates fair and reasonable in these challenging times.

Arizona Public Service (APS) customers have a choice of plans that can affect electricity costs based on how and when you use electricity. This can be confusing and AARP has have advocated at the Arizona Corporation Commission that customers should be on the electric rate that is right for them. You may be able to change plans to avoid surprise charges.

The APS Saver Choice Plus and Saver Choice Max plans have a “demand charge” based on the highest amount of electricity you use in any one hour between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. on weekdays, during the entire month. These plans may have a lower rate per kilowatt-hour, but the demand charge is added on top of your total electric use.

Demand charges can be a surprise on your electric bill and controlling your demand can be difficult. Appliances like hot water heaters, refrigerators, and air conditioners can cycle on and off unpredictably throughout the day. If several appliances are running at once, you could be in for an unexpected charge on your next bill.

To avoid these surprise charges, you may be able to switch to a different service plan without a demand charge:

· Lite Choice is available to customers who average less than 600 kilowatt-hours per month, typically an apartment or small home. The plan charges the same rate throughout the day.

· Premier Choice is available for customers who average between 600 and 1000 kilowatt-hours per month and charges the same rate throughout the day.

· Saver Choice is available all customers. The plan charges a higher rate during the peak hours of 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. on weekdays, and a lower rate at all other times. If you can limit your consumption during the peak hours, you may find this a better plan for you.

You can change your service plan by contacting APS at 1 (800) 240-2014.