In this work, we demonstrate the importance of implementing techniques that allow us to include demand side management as a tool for the planning of energy systems, in this particular case, standalone power systems. Penetration indexes are also proposed and calculated to establish the minimum requirements for the energy supply of a predominantly residential system powered by renewable resources. The indexes were optimized using meta-heuristic optimization techniques based on a genetic algorithm and particle swarm optimization. Periods of one, five and 10 years were analyzed in order to understand the importance of the penetration of these technologies. Through the use of numerical tools, the relationship between generation and demand is optimized for different cases, with the aim of reducing the energy that is not supplied to the system at minimum cost. This document analyzes a series of penetration indexes that were obtained by optimizing an energy system. The mentioned indexes allow to visualize the behavior of the technologies susceptible of being implemented in the western region of Mexico. The purpose of the work is focused on understanding the potential of demand management as a structural element and foundation of energy networks that use renewable energy.