Hawaiian Electric Co. has received regulatory approval to implement a new rate structure that will encourage Oahu residents to conserve electricity.

Customers who use more energy will pay higher rates for higher levels of energy use. The utility said the tiered rate structure takes effect today.

Hawaiian Electric’s Maui County and Big Island subsidiaries already implemented the new rate structure in January.

Hawaiian Electric executive vice president Robbie Alm says the community needs to find ways to reduce its energy use if Hawaii is to meet its clean energy goals.

The utility says qualifying low-income customers will only be billed at the lowest rate.

The state Public Utilities Commission approved the new rate structure on Friday.