Marcus F. here in Detroit but working on ComEd account in Chicago. Manufacturing client qualifies for Rate BES (Business Energy Solutions) with TOU pricing but ComEd has them on standard Rate BED. Customer averages 95,000 kWh monthly with 215 kW demand, definitely meets minimum requirements. ComEd rep claims they need to 'apply' for TOU but I can't find application requirement in tariff. Anyone know ComEd's actual process for TOU rate assignment?
ComEd TOU Rate Not Applied Despite Meeting Qualifications
Rick from Indianapolis. Don't deal with ComEd directly but most Illinois utilities require formal written request for TOU rates even when customer qualifies. Try sending letter to ComEd business services requesting Rate BES classification citing specific qualification criteria from their tariff Schedule BES.
Tina R. in Omaha. OPPD territory here but had similar issue with automatic vs opt-in TOU rates. Some utilities make TOU optional even for qualifying customers. Check if ComEd Rate BES is mandatory for customers over certain thresholds or optional program requiring enrollment.
Found the issue - ComEd requires AMI meter installation before TOU rate assignment. Customer still has older electromechanical meter. ComEd scheduling meter upgrade but saying 6-8 week wait. Any way to expedite this process?
Susan W. in Oklahoma City. OG&E had similar meter upgrade delays. Try escalating to ComEd business account manager and emphasize customer savings from TOU rates. Sometimes they'll prioritize meter installs for large commercial accounts. Also check if temporary TOU billing adjustment possible pending meter installation.
Thanks Susan. Escalated to business account manager and got meter install moved up to next week. Expecting significant savings once on proper TOU rate - preliminary analysis shows about $1,200 monthly reduction with their off-peak heavy usage pattern.