Working a warehouse client in Dallas on the Oncor system. I got billing data from their REP (TXU Energy) no problem but the bills only show monthly totals for demand. I need the actual 15-minute interval data to verify the demand charges. TXU says they don't have it — Oncor does because they own the meters. Do I need a separate LOA to Oncor? My current one is addressed to TXU.
Getting Oncor interval data in ERCOT — separate request from the REP
Yes you need a separate authorization to Oncor as the TDU. In ERCOT the REP handles billing and the TDU handles the physical infrastructure including meters. Oncor has a process for third-party data requests but it goes through their Smart Meter Texas portal. The client needs to register on smartmetertexas.com and grant you access. It's clunky but once you're in you can pull 15-minute interval data going back over a year. Same process applies for CenterPoint and AEP Texas.
Smart Meter Texas is the way to go for any ERCOT account. I work accounts in the Lubbock area with Lubbock Power & Light which is a muni outside ERCOT, plus some Oncor accounts nearby. Night and day difference — LP&L I just call and ask, Oncor I have to go through the portal. But the portal data is actually more detailed once you get it. Make sure the client selects the option to share both usage AND demand interval data. By default it only shares usage.
The Texas deregulated market creates extra data collection steps but the data quality from Smart Meter Texas is actually quite good. For anyone doing significant work in ERCOT territory, get familiar with the portal and build it into your standard Texas workflow. The interval data from Oncor and CenterPoint meters is essential for demand charge audits in that market.