SMUD implements unprecedented time-of-day rate changes and educational campaigns

The Town of Concord's Municipal Light Board meeting on April 29, 2025, highlighted significant developments in the transition to Time of Day (TOD) rates, a change that will impact local residents' energy bills and usage patterns. The board emphasized the importance of educating both customers and employees about this unprecedented shift, which affects every department within the municipal utility.

During the meeting, representatives discussed the extensive communication efforts undertaken to ensure that residents are well-informed about the new rate structure. This included presentations at community meetings and the creation of resources such as usage charts and neighbor comparison tools. These tools allow customers to track their energy consumption over time, compare their usage with similar households, and receive alerts about high bills, enabling them to make informed decisions about their energy use.

The board also shared details about a comprehensive campaign that began in 2018 to prepare customers for the transition. This campaign has evolved through various phases, starting with initial awareness of the upcoming changes, followed by the implementation of the TOD rates, and continuing with seasonal reminders about summer rates.

As the transition progresses, the board remains committed to keeping the community updated and engaged. The focus on education and communication aims to help residents adapt to the new rate structure, ultimately fostering a more energy-conscious community. The Municipal Light Board's proactive approach reflects its dedication to ensuring that residents understand the implications of these changes and can successfully navigate their energy usage in the future.