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

Published: May 19, 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.

This guide is full of insights, tips, and breakdowns. It helps Arizona residents manage SRP bills. It also looks at solar energy as a long-term solution.

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 should I keep my Thermostat during the Hot Summer Hours?

During the hot summer hours, we recommend to set 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 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 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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, 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.