LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — NV Energy has delayed implementation of a new daily demand charge until January, following public pushback, but a local lawmaker and UNLV law professor argue the billing method is not legal and should not be implemented at all.
The new way to calculate power bills was scheduled to start this week. Assemblymember David Orentlicher spoke with FOX5 about his concerns.
“Some people will be hit much harder, people who are already struggling to pay their electricity and other bills,” said Orentlicher, who represents District 20 and is a UNLV law professor. “And that’s why in 2013, the legislature prohibited rates and charges that were based on the time of day that you incurred them. We don’t want people to have to worry. If I have to use more electricity in a specific period of time, it’ll cost me more.”
Orentlicher said the charge penalizes residential customers and small business customers who cannot spread their electricity usage throughout the day.
The charge is based on peak usage during the 15 minutes when customers use the most electricity during the day.
“For some people, you’re working two jobs, and you’re only home for an hour or two between them. So you’ve got to prepare dinner and do the laundry… all at once,” Orentlicher said. “So time of day really matters a lot. And the 2013 bill was to prevent that.”
NV Energy sent FOX5 a response stating the company has been working closely with the Public Utilities Commission of Nevada, ensuring compliance with Nevada law.
“NV Energy remains committed to complying with all applicable Nevada laws and regulatory requirements and will continue to work through the established regulatory process to address outstanding issues,” the company said.
The daily demand rate is being challenged in court. Orentlicher said even if it is implemented in January, he will sponsor a bill on fair customer rates during the legislative session, which starts in February.
Copyright 2026 KVVU. All rights reserved.
