Understand the PG&E Tiered Rate Plan (E-1)
PG&E’s Tiered Rate Plan (E-1)
This rate plan has two pricing levels, known as “tiers,” which are based on how much energy you use.
Understanding Baseline Allowance
The first and lowest priced tier is called your Baseline Allowance. It consists of an allotment of energy based on where you live, your heating source, and the season—summer or winter. Summer runs June 1 through September 30 and winter runs October 1 through May 31.
- Energy used within your Baseline Allowance is billed at the lowest price.
- Energy used above the Baseline Allowance is considered Tier 2 and is billed at a higher price.
Find your baseline allowance
How the plan works
- The price for energy changes only when you exceed your Baseline Allowance and go into Tier 2 during the monthly billing cycle.
- Since the Baseline Allowance changes by season, the amount of energy billed at the lowest price also changes by season.
- You can save on your bill by conserving energy and staying within Baseline Allowance as long as possible.
- This plan works best for customers who are unable to decrease their energy use during certain times of day.
PLEASE NOTE: This chart represents an above average usage customer. The length of time in each tier depends on monthly energy usage.
Download PG&E Residential Rate Plan Pricing (PDF, 105 KB)
Determine Your Baseline Allowance
Find current pricing on the Tariffs page
Sign in to use the Electric Rate Plan Comparison tool
Explore rate options that could help you conserve energy and save
Save with the SmartRate™ Add-On
The SmartRate plan can help you save up to 20 percent on your summer energy bill. Receive a discount for reducing your energy use up to 15 days a year.
Take control with a Time-of-Use Plan
On Time-of-Use rate plans, pricing varies depending on when you use energy during the day, week and season.
Tools to help manage your energy costs
Use personalized tools
Sign in to your online account to see your energy usage details and a personalized rate analysis. Plus, you can take a Home Energy Checkup to learn how your home uses energy.
Sign up for Energy Alerts
The Bill Forecast Alert sends a notification if your bill is expected to exceed an amount you specify.