⚡ Why IID Is Cheaper Than SCE
If you're buying a home in the Coachella Valley, one of the most overlooked—yet impactful—factors is your electricity provider. Most homes in the valley are serviced by either the Imperial Irrigation District (IID) or Southern California Edison (SCE), and the difference in rates can be significant.
- IID residential base rate: ~19.8¢ per kWh
- SCE residential rate: ~30–35¢ per kWh
- IID homes pay ~39% less on average
IID is a publicly owned utility district, and that ownership model has helped keep rate increases minimal—just 8% since 1994, compared to over 117% inflation in that same time period. Even with planned 2025 updates, IID remains one of the lowest-cost providers in California.
🗺️ Where IID Ends and SCE Begins
Which provider you get depends on where your property is located:
- IID covers: Most of La Quinta, Indio, Coachella, Thermal, and Mecca, plus parts of Bermuda Dunes.
- SCE covers: Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, Cathedral City, and Desert Hot Springs.
It’s a good idea to verify before purchasing. Ask your agent or check the utility meter on-site.
☀️ Solar + Net Billing in IID
IID doesn’t offer full net metering—but it does provide net billing:
- You pay ~11.7¢/kWh for what you pull from the grid
- You earn ~6.8¢/kWh for excess solar energy sent back
That still makes solar worthwhile. One homeowner reported trimming a $376 summer bill to $168 after installing solar with battery backup—a 58% savings.
Read more about solar strategies under IID
💡 What Energy Actually Costs in the Desert
A/C and pools are the big hitters—but here’s a more complete breakdown:
| Usage Type | Est. Monthly kWh | Est. IID Cost | |----------------------------------|------------------|----------------| | Central A/C (summer, 78°F) | 1,200–1,800 | $240–$356 | | Heating (light winter use) | 200–300 | $40–$60 | | Pool pump (10 hrs/day, summer) | 600–900 | $120–$178 | | Refrigerator (always on) | ~100 | $20 | | Lighting (LED home) | 100–200 | $20–$40 | | Washer & dryer (electric) | 50–100 | $10–$20 | | Dishwasher | 20–40 | $4–$8 | | EV charging (Level 2 at home) | 200–400 | $40–$80 |
“Electric (IID) was ~$400/month in summer. Pool, AC, and laundry made up most of that. Water was ~$50, gas $30. Big difference from my old place on Edison.”
— Local homeowner via Reddit
🕒 Time-of-Use Changes Coming in 2025
IID is introducing Time-of-Use (TOU) rates starting June 1, 2025, which could change how and when you use energy.
- Peak hours: 4 PM – 9 PM
- Off-peak: Overnight and mid-day
- Great for smart home tech, EV charging, and solar users with batteries
🏡 Ready to Find Your Next Home?
Whether you're relocating, investing, or shopping for a second home, understanding utility costs can save you thousands each year. Want help finding a home in an IID-serviced area—or weighing the costs in SCE zones?
Fill out the contact form below and let’s start your home search today. I’ll help you make an informed move based on your needs, lifestyle, and long-term savings goals.