Felix from El Paso. Client ran a full-capacity test in October after a facility expansion, bringing all production lines online simultaneously. That four-hour test created the highest demand in the account's history. Now the ratchet bills them at 90 percent of that test peak for 11 months even though normal operations are at 40 percent of the test level. Any dispute path?
Ratchet triggered by one-time equipment commissioning test
Walt. The one-time test argument is valid but you need documentation. Engineering records showing the test was scheduled and limited to a specific window. Comparison of before-and-after demand readings.
The expansion contractor was on site and there are inspection records and a commissioning report. Would those documents work?
Derek. Yes, a commissioning report is excellent evidence. It establishes that the high demand was a formal technical procedure associated with construction, not a normal operating condition.
Mike D. Many utility tariffs have provisions for excluding demand readings from commissioning periods for major expansions. Check carefully before filing.