Found a tariff provision on MLGW that says qualifying customers may elect an optional time-of-use rate. Perfect for my client whose usage is mostly off-peak. But how do I actually make the election? Called MLGW customer service and they had no idea what I was talking about. The tariff says "customer may elect" but doesn't specify the process. Is there a standard way to do this?
Tariff says "customer may elect" — how do you actually elect?
Put it in writing. Send a letter on your client's letterhead (or with a signed LOA authorizing you to act on their behalf) to the utility's rate department — not customer service. Cite the specific tariff provision by name and section number. State that the customer elects to be served under Rate Schedule [X] effective on the next billing cycle. Include account numbers and service addresses. I've done this with Georgia Power, Alabama Power, and Entergy and it works every time. The rate department knows what election provisions are even if the call center doesn't.
Derek's approach is correct. Written notice to the rate department citing the specific tariff provision is the standard process. A few additional tips: some tariffs have a minimum stay requirement — once you elect a rate you must stay on it for 12 months. Make sure the rate will be favorable for the full minimum period, not just for one season. Also, some elections can only be made during certain windows, like at the start of a billing year or during the annual enrollment period. Read the full provision carefully before making the election.
Sent the written election to MLGW's rate department yesterday citing the specific tariff section. Will report back on how long it takes to process. Thanks for the guidance.