Potomac Edison Offers 9¢/kWh Off-Peak Rate vs 16¢ On-Peak
Potomac Edison launched a residential time-of-use rate in Maryland on April 20, offering off-peak electric supply and variable distribution charges at about 9 cents/kWh versus 16 cents/kWh on-peak through May 31, a roughly 44% discount. Enrollment is free for its approximately 285,000 Maryland customers and requires installation of a smart meter to track separate on-peak and off-peak usage starting with the next billing cycle.
1. Program Launch
Potomac Edison began offering a residential time-of-use rate in its Maryland service area on April 20, 2026, enabling customers to shift consumption to off-peak windows to lower their electric bills.
2. Rate Structure and Savings
On-peak supply and distribution charges are set at about 16 cents per kilowatt-hour during weekday peak hours (4–9 p.m. DST; 3–8 p.m. EST), while off-peak charges drop to approximately 9 cents, representing a 44% discount.
3. Enrollment and Eligibility
Enrollment is free for customers receiving electricity supply through Potomac Edison and requires a call to the dedicated sign-up line; participants receive a smart meter replacement and see the new rate applied beginning their next billing cycle.
4. Customer Reach and Implications
Potomac Edison serves roughly 285,000 Maryland residential customers; this time-of-use offering could shift load patterns, ease peak demand on the grid and serve as a template for future utility rate programs.