Eddie E. from Tulsa here and I'm in deep trouble on my first real audit. Manufacturing client on PSO Rate SC-9 but I think they should be on Schedule E-19 TOU. Problem is E-19 might actually cost MORE due to their load profile. Client is expecting savings and I'm seeing potential increases. How do I handle this without losing credibility? Been staring at 24 months of interval data and second-guessing everything.
First audit nightmare - Rate SC-9 vs Schedule E-19
Rosa M. from Chicago here Eddie. Been there! First rule - honesty builds trust long term. If E-19 isn't better, explain why SC-9 is actually optimal for their usage pattern. Then look for other savings - demand management, power factor correction, possibly negotiated rates for large users. Your analysis still has value even if rate switching isn't the answer.
Eddie, Randy here. Rosa's absolutely right about honesty. This is actually a great learning opportunity. I'd recommend doing a detailed comparison showing both scenarios with their actual load data. Many times the "obvious" rate switch isn't optimal once you factor in demand charges, time-of-use patterns, and seasonal variations. Your thorough analysis proves your value - finding the right answer IS the service, even if it's not what they expected.
Greg L. in Atlanta adding my two cents. I had similar situation with Georgia Power Schedule TOU-GSD-6 vs PL-1. Customer assumed TOU was better but their weekend operations made standard rate cheaper. Presented it as "I saved you from a costly mistake" and they appreciated the honesty. Led to three referrals actually.
Thanks everyone. Randy, when you say seasonal variations, are you talking about comparing summer vs winter demand patterns? Their peak usage shifts dramatically between seasons and I wasn't sure how to weight that in the analysis.
Exactly Eddie. PSO's E-19 has different on-peak windows summer vs winter, right? You need to model both seasons separately then blend based on billing month weights. Summer months typically carry higher costs so even small increases there can offset winter savings. Also check if they have any load growth or reduction plans that might change the equation going forward.
Flo N. from Charleston here. Eddie, also double-check the minimum demand provisions on E-19. Sometimes there's a ratchet clause that's not obvious in the tariff summary. Had a client who looked good on TOU until I found the 75% demand ratchet buried in the fine print. Turned potential savings into guaranteed losses.
Update: Presented both scenarios to client yesterday. They appreciated the thorough analysis and asked me to look at demand response programs instead. Turns out PSO has a curtailment program that could save them $15K annually. Sometimes the answer isn't where you expect to find it! Thanks for the advice everyone.