Which Is Better for Charging Your Tesla: SDG&E Standard or TOU-2 Plan in San Diego?
Title: Comparing SDG&E Standard vs TOU-2 Plans for Charging Tesla in San Diego
Understanding the Differences between Standard DR and TOU-2 Plans
When it comes to charging your electric vehicle (EV), especially a Tesla Model 3, understanding the differences between various utility plans can be confusing. In San Diego, residents have the option of choosing between a standard Domestic Rate (DR) plan and a Time-of-Use (TOU-2) plan offered by San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E). In this section, we will break down these two plans and discuss their implications on EV charging.
The standard DR plan is tiered, meaning that you are charged based on your energy consumption levels. The lowest Tier 1 rate allows for around 270 kWh per month without exceeding the baseline allowance. On the other hand, the TOU-2 plan charges customers based on when they use electricity during different periods of the day. Super off-peak rates are generally a penny or two lower than the DR Tier 1 rate, making it potentially more cost-effective for EV charging.
However, convenience also plays a role in deciding which plan is best suited for your needs. With a single 14-50 Universal Mobile Connector (UMC) in the garage, it may be easier to plug in your Teslas whenever needed under the standard DR plan rather than worrying about timing your charging sessions according to TOU-2 rates.
Evaluating Your Energy Usage and Solar Power Generation
Before making any decisions regarding which plan to choose, it's crucial to evaluate your energy usage patterns and solar power generation capabilities. For instance, if you have photovoltaic (PV) solar panels installed on your roof generating excess power every year, you might want to consider how adding an EV into the mix would affect your overall energy consumption.
In such cases, calculating your expected energy usage after incorporating EV charging can help you make an informed decision. For example, if your calculations show that you will be using approximately 160-180 kWh per month with two Tesla Model 3s, staying within the Tier 1 rate under the standard DR plan may be more cost-effective than switching to TOU-2.
Additionally, it's essential to consider your home's electrical infrastructure and any limitations it might have. Older homes with only a 125 amp service from the utility may not have the capacity to add additional charging capability, which could impact your ability to take full advantage of TOU-2 rates by charging during super off-peak periods.
Weighing the Pros and Cons of Each Plan
Ultimately, deciding between the SDG&E standard DR and TOU-2 plans comes down to weighing the pros and cons based on your specific situation. In some cases, sticking with the tiered DR plan may be more cost-effective due to lower overall energy consumption levels or limited charging capabilities at home. However, for those who can charge their EVs primarily during off-peak hours, the TOU-2 plan may offer potential savings.
It's also important to remember that your annual true-up period for electric billing plays a role in determining which plan is best suited for you. As you gain more experience with your EVs and monitor your energy usage patterns over time, you'll be better equipped to decide whether staying on the standard DR plan or switching to TOU-2 makes sense for your household.
In conclusion, understanding the differences between SDG&E's standard DR and TOU-2 plans is crucial when considering how to charge your Tesla Model 3 most efficiently. By evaluating your energy usage patterns, solar power generation capabilities, and home infrastructure limitations, you can make an informed decision about which plan best meets your needs while maximizing cost savings and convenience.