Utilities are navigating enormous changes that are forcing them to reconsider virtually everything they do. One of the biggest changes is the explosion in intermittent energy sources—such as renewable and behind-the-meter distributed energy resources (DERs).

Variable energy sources such as solar, EVs, wind and storage are increasingly popular with policymakers. They’re critical for meeting decarbonization mandates. Unfortunately, greater variability in energy production is something utilities, regulators and other stakeholders aren’t yet equipped to handle on a large scale.

Using a time of use, or TOU, rate structure that reflects varying demand and supply throughout the day is one way utilities can manage demand and encourage adoption. In this playbook, experts explain:

• How a TOU rate structure works
• How these rates benefit both customers and the power system overall 
• Why smart meters and other technology, coupled with big data, are paving the way to future energy delivery.

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