Columbia manufacturing client got Ameren backbill for 72 months claiming meter tampering. They found loose connections but no evidence of intentional tampering. Missouri PSC rules?
Missouri Ameren backbill - customer tampering vs error
Missouri allows up to 6 years if there's proven tampering but only 36 months for equipment issues. Loose connections aren't tampering unless there's intent.
Exactly what I thought. Ameren claiming loose connections show "customer knowledge" but maintenance records show they were reported and Ameren said not to worry about it.
Kansas has similar issues with Evergy. If customer reported the loose connections and utility said ignore it, that's their problem not customer tampering.
Filed complaint with MO PSC including the maintenance records. Ameren backed down to 24 months and dropped the tampering claim. Saved client $28,000.
Excellent outcome. Missouri PSC correctly distinguishes between intentional tampering and maintenance issues. Documentation of customer good faith efforts is always critical in these cases.