Virginia customers can have more control over their energy bill through a new rate recently announced by Dominion Energy. The Off-Peak Plan is an optional rate that will let customers control their energy costs by shifting the time when they use it.

Customers who choose to enroll in the Off-Peak Plan can potentially save money if they do certain tasks—such as laundry, washing dishes or charging their electric vehicle—at off-peak times of the day when overall demand for electricity is low. In other words, these customers are rewarded with a lower rate when they choose to consume more of their energy at “off-peak” times of the day.

“Customers who choose to participate will receive monthly emails with advice on how to shift usage, better understand their bill, and conserve energy,” said Nathan Frost, Dominion Energy’s director of New Technology & Energy Conservation. “Simple tips like unplugging a phone charger when it’s not in use or adjusting your thermostat will help you save on your monthly bill.”

To be eligible for the rate, customers must have a smart meter installed. The rate will be open to the first 10,000 residential customers in Virginia who choose to enroll. Visit the company’s website (www.dominionenergy.com) to enroll or learn more.

Additionally, a $500 rebate will be offered to the first 500 solar customers who enroll in the Off-Peak Plan and participate in Dominion Energy’s net metering process, through which they connect their own renewable energy source—such as rooftop solar panels—to the company’s power grid.

Customers can learn more about the Dominion Energy Net Metering application process by visiting the company’s website.