Why Is My SRP Bill So High? A Solar Guide for Arizona Residents

Updated: September 25, 2025

For Arizona residents, high utility bills during the blazing summer months are nothing new. However, hefty Salt River Project (SRP) bills can leave many homeowners wondering exactly why their electricity costs are skyrocketing. Between scorching temperatures and SRP’s peak-hour pricing system, these bills may seem overwhelming, but there’s good news. By learning how SRP billing works and looking into solar energy, you can manage your energy costs better. You might ask yourself the question, “Why is my SRP Bill so High?”. We have a full guide below to help you understand how to lower your energy costs by switching to Solar, saving you money.

At Solar Topps, we service the entire state of Arizona. While we are located in Downtown Phoenix, we specialize in cities like Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Peoria, Buckeye, Tucson, Gilbert, Mesa, Chandler, and many more in the Phoenix Metro Area.

This guide is packed with valuable insights, practical tips, and detailed breakdowns. It helps Arizona residents manage SRP bills. It also looks at solar energy as a long-term solution. At Solar Topps, if you need a Residential or Commercial Quote, please contact us.

Decoding SRP Electricity Bills for Phoenix Residents

Understanding your SRP electricity bill is key to managing your energy costs. SRP has a tiered pricing system. They charge higher rates during peak hours, which are late afternoon and early evening. Off-peak hours have lower rates. Planning energy use during off-peak times can help you save money.

Be sure to review the key components of your bill, such as the service charge, energy charge, and any surcharges or credits. Identifying these details can reveal cost-saving opportunities, like running appliances or air conditioning during off-peak hours. By adjusting your energy use, you can better control your expenses and save in the long run.

Why is my SRP Bill So High? How Does SRP Pricing Work?

SRP uses a pricing model with a focus on time-of-use plans. This means electricity costs significantly more during specific peak hours. Generally, these peak periods run between 2 PM and 8 PM, though details vary depending on your rate plan.

For example, with SRP’s Time-of-Use Plan, electricity prices can rise to $0.24 per kWh during peak hours. This is much higher than the $0.07 per kWh rate during off-peak times. This steep price spike during peak hours is a major reason Arizona residents see higher bills.

Common Culprits Behind High SRP Bills during the Summer

Here are the key contributors driving up SRP bills for Arizona homeowners:

  • Air Conditioning Overload: During peak hours, running your AC can quickly lead to soaring energy costs. Prolonged Arizona heat makes air conditioners one of the biggest electricity consumers.
  • Pool Pumps running during the hottest times of the day can silently stack up high bills as well.
  • Outdated systems like Recirculation Pumps and leaky ductwork indirectly worsen energy efficiency.
  • Poor home insulation leads to higher AC usage as cool air escapes too easily, forcing systems to work harder.
  • Running high-energy appliances (ovens, dryers, dishwashers) during peak periods.

Understanding the specific patterns of energy usage in your household can help you pinpoint ways to save.

Key Peak-Hour Tip

Shift 90% of your energy use to off-peak times. For example, set your thermostat to cool your home overnight or early in the morning. This helps reduce air conditioning use during peak hours. Even raising your thermostat to 82°F–85°F in the afternoon can save you money.

What is the Average Electric Bill in Arizona?

The average electric bill in Arizona varies depending on several factors, including the size of the home, the number of occupants, and seasonal energy demands. According to recent data, the average residential electric bill in the state is approximately $120 to $140 per month. However, during the summer months, when air conditioning use spikes, bills can easily exceed $200 or more, particularly if energy-efficient practices are not implemented. Utilizing energy-saving tips, such as adjusting the thermostat and using energy-efficient appliances, can significantly lower costs and help manage expenses more effectively throughout the year. Switching to Solar in Phoenix, Arizona can help your long-term energy costs as well.

Benefits of Energy-Efficient Practices

Implementing energy-efficient practices not only reduces monthly energy bills but also minimizes environmental impacts. By making small adjustments like sealing air leaks, upgrading to LED lighting, or using programmable thermostats, homeowners can cut down on overall energy consumption. These changes contribute to a more sustainable future while offering immediate financial savings.

Advantages of Solar Energy in Phoenix

Phoenix is an ideal location for solar energy due to its abundant sunshine throughout the year. Switching to solar allows homeowners to significantly reduce their reliance on the grid, ensuring more stable and lower energy costs over time.  Solar installations in Phoenix may qualify for tax incentives and rebates, further enhancing the financial benefits of transitioning to renewable energy sources.

What should I keep my Thermostat at during the Hot Summer Hours?

During the hot Arizona summer hours, we recommend setting your thermostat between 78°F and 82°F while you are home and awake. This temperature range strikes a balance between comfort and energy efficiency. When you are away from home, think about raising the thermostat to 88°F. Cooling an empty house is not needed and can raise energy costs a lot.

Using ceiling fans or portable fans can increase comfort when you set your thermostat higher. They create a wind chill effect, making you feel cooler without needing to lower the temperature.

How do I optimize my Home Settings for Winter to reduce my SRP bill in Arizona?

How to Adjust Thermostat in Winter for SRP Arizona

Managing your home’s temperature efficiently during the winter months is essential for balancing comfort and energy savings. By making strategic adjustments to your thermostat settings and utilizing additional heating strategies, you can reduce your energy consumption and lower your SRP bill. Understanding how to optimize your home for cooler weather can make a significant difference in both your expenses and overall energy efficiency.

Adjusting Your Thermostat for Winter

During the winter months, setting your thermostat to an energy-efficient temperature is key to reducing your SRP bill. The U.S. Department of Energy suggests setting your thermostat to 68°F when you are at home and awake. For times when you are asleep or away, lowering the thermostat by 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours can significantly reduce heating costs, saving up to 10% a year on your energy bill.

Using Proper Insulation and Sealing

Proper insulation and sealing gaps around your home play a crucial role in retaining heat and improving energy efficiency. Check for drafts around windows, doors, and attic spaces, and seal them with weatherstripping or caulk. Additionally, adding insulation to your walls and attic can help maintain indoor temperatures, reducing the need for excessive heating and lowering energy usage.

How Solar Energy Provides Relief From High Electricity Bills

Solar energy offers Arizona homeowners a powerful and cost-effective way to tackle high SRP bills. With the state’s abundant sunshine, switching to solar in Arizona is not only environmentally friendly but also a smart financial move.

Why Solar Works for Arizona Homes

  1. Eliminates Dependence on SRP’s Peak Prices

Solar panels generate power directly from the sun, allowing you to use less electricity during peak-rate windows. Many homeowners with solar systems use battery backups. These batteries store extra energy made during off-peak hours. This helps them save money when electricity rates are higher.

  1. Arizona’s Solar Incentives: In Phoenix and All of Arizona

Arizona residents enjoy significant solar benefits, such as federal tax credits, state tax incentives, and SRP’s battery storage rebates. These programs help offset upfront installation costs while delivering long-term savings.

  1. Lock in Predictable Energy Costs

With a solar system, you’re no longer at the mercy of fluctuating SRP electricity rates. Once installed, your solar energy costs remain consistent, stabilizing household budgets.

  1. Environmental Impact for Arizona residents

Solar energy is renewable, eco-friendly, and sustainable, helping Arizona residents reduce their carbon footprint.

What Areas does Solar Topps Service in Arizona?

Solar Topps provides high-quality solar solutions to a broad network of locations across Arizona. Our service area includes key cities such as Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, and Scottsdale, as well as surrounding communities.

We are committed to making solar energy accessible to homeowners and businesses throughout the state. By combining comprehensive coverage with expert support, we ensure seamless transitions to clean, renewable energy systems.

  • Service Coverage: Major urban centers and suburban areas across Arizona.
  • Expertise: Professional guidance for installing and maintaining solar energy systems.
  • Accessibility: Designed to meet the needs of diverse communities statewide.

Contact Solar Topps in Phoenix, AZ, for more information

To confirm service availability in your location, contact Solar Topps today. Our team is ready to assist you with precision and expertise for any Solar related questions. We provide Commercial, Residential, and Solar Battery Installation Services in Phoenix, AZ, and throughout Arizona. Call or Text Us today: (480) 940-1201.

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