I'm building an Excel model to compare declining block rates versus TOU schedules for a client analysis and wondering if anyone has a good template they'd be willing to share. Need something that can handle multiple tier structures and different TOU periods. Working primarily with Evergy here in Kansas but want something flexible for other utilities too.
Excel model for declining block vs TOU comparison - any templates?
Sandra H., I've got a pretty comprehensive rate comparison spreadsheet that handles both declining block and TOU structures. It's set up with input tabs for rate schedules and a calculation engine that can model different usage patterns. The key is getting the load profile data properly formatted - 15-minute interval data works best but hourly is usually sufficient. Send me your email and I'll share it along with the instruction guide.
Randy D., I'd love to get a copy of that spreadsheet too if you don't mind. I'm also in Kansas dealing with Evergy tariffs and have been building something similar but sounds like yours is more advanced. The declining block calculations get tricky when you have seasonal variations in the tier breakpoints.
This sounds like exactly what I need for Otter Tail Power comparisons up in North Dakota. We have some unusual rate structures with both declining blocks and TOU components in the same schedule. Would appreciate getting a copy as well Randy.
Rachel H. and Ron P., absolutely. I'll send copies to both of you. The spreadsheet actually handles hybrid rate structures pretty well - there's a section for combined demand charges, TOU energy, and block adjustments all in one calculation. Just make sure you have the current tariff effective dates since some utilities change their block breakpoints seasonally.
Randy D., could I get added to that list? Working with MidAmerican Energy here in Iowa and they have some complex agricultural rates with seasonal declining blocks that are tough to model accurately. Your spreadsheet sounds like it would save me hours of manual calculations.
Thanks Randy! Got your spreadsheet and it's exactly what I was looking for. The load profile analysis section is particularly helpful for showing clients how their usage patterns affect rate comparisons. Already used it for two Evergy analyses and saved probably 4 hours per project.
Randy D., would love to get that spreadsheet if you're still sharing. Dealing with Xcel Energy rates here in South Dakota and they just revised their general service schedules with new block structures. Having a good modeling tool would be invaluable right now.
Howard J. and Lester V., sending copies to both of you. The spreadsheet has sections for most major utility rate structures so should handle MidAmerican and Xcel pretty well. Let me know if you run into any issues with the calculations - always happy to help troubleshoot.
This thread has been really helpful! I'm down in Florida dealing with Gulf Power declining block schedules and would appreciate getting Randy's model if it's not too much trouble. The seasonal tier adjustments down here are particularly confusing.
Nadine S., I can forward Randy's spreadsheet to you if that helps. It definitely handles seasonal adjustments well - I've been using it for several months now and it's become my go-to tool for rate analysis. Just make sure you input the tier breakpoints carefully since small errors can throw off the whole calculation.