A digital copy of SECC's Rate Design: What Do Consumers Want and Need? report, an exploration of the common alternative rates available today – including time-of-use rates, real-time pricing and variable peak pricing – and the factors that make for success in terms of customer engagement.

Using survey responses from roughly 1,100 residential customers and 500 SMBs nationwide, the report found that residential consumers are mostly open to trying alternative rates even though many have not heard of them, suggesting a considerable education opportunity for electricity providers. The report also found that SMBs are very aware of alterative rates and that 73 percent prefer them over traditional flat rates.

The report also provides recommendations for program design, consumer education and outreach efforts that, if applied, will meet residential and SMB customers’ needs and increase the likelihood of adoption of alternative rate designs.