Glen P. from Boise but working on New Jersey account. Trying to get a greenhouse operation qualified for PSE&G Schedule AG (agricultural rate) instead of their current Schedule GLP (general large power). They're growing hydroponic vegetables commercially but PSE&G says it doesn't qualify as 'traditional agriculture.' Anyone dealt with PSE&G's agricultural rate definitions? The savings would be about $1,800 monthly if we can get them reclassified.
PSE&G agricultural rate qualification nightmare
Beth H. here. That's frustrating but not unusual. Many utilities have narrow definitions of agriculture that exclude greenhouse operations, aquaculture, or hydroponic farming. What's PSE&G's specific language in their ag rate tariff? Usually there's something about 'soil-based farming' or 'traditional crop production' that excludes modern agriculture methods.
You're exactly right Beth. PSE&G Schedule AG requires 'cultivation of crops in soil for commercial sale.' The hydroponic growing doesn't use soil so they're excluding it. Seems outdated given that hydroponic vegetable production is legitimate agriculture. Worth appealing to the Board of Public Utilities?