A charge based on peak power demand during a period, more common on commercial or some special residential plans. Learn where it appears on an electric bill, whether it is controllable, and what to check first.
Electric bill
$226
All-in rate
$0.246 per kWh
Best next check
Cooling hours
A charge based on peak power demand during a period, more common on commercial or some special residential plans.
On a real bill, this may appear as Demand, Peak demand, kW demand charge. The exact label depends on the utility, supplier, regulator, and rate plan.
What to check: Look for heavy appliances running at the same time, such as EV charging, HVAC, dryers, pumps, or water heating.
Break down usage, delivery, fixed fees, taxes, and other line items.
Open pageBrowse the full glossary for common electric charges, fees, and readings.
Open pageA charge for moving electricity through poles, wires, meters, and local distribution infrastructure.
Open pageA fixed account or service fee that can appear even when electricity usage is low.
Open pageThe cost of the electricity itself, separate from delivery in many deregulated or retail choice markets.
Open pageA rate plan where electricity costs more during peak hours and less during off-peak hours.
Open pageA utility rider that can reflect changes in fuel or power purchasing costs.
Open pageLocal taxes, public program charges, regulatory fees, franchise fees, or other required bill add-ons.
Open pageShort answers for search visitors and bill-checking moments.
A charge based on peak power demand during a period, more common on commercial or some special residential plans.
Demand charge is partly controllable. Look for heavy appliances running at the same time, such as EV charging, HVAC, dryers, pumps, or water heating.
Compare kWh usage, billing days, and the all-in cost per kWh before deciding which line item caused the increase.