Gene A. in Aurora - discovered a large office building that qualifies for ComEd's Real Time Pricing but has been on standard Schedule 4L for two years. The energy consultant who set up service never applied for RTP even though the client has sophisticated energy management. We're talking potential savings of $15,000 annually. Anyone dealt with ComEd on getting RTP approved retroactively?
ComEd TOU Variants Not Applied - Need Help with Documentation
Jim W. from Ohio but I work with ComEd clients regularly. RTP applications are tricky because ComEd limits enrollment periods and requires extensive documentation of energy management capabilities. They typically won't approve retroactive rate changes for voluntary programs like RTP. Better focus on getting them enrolled for current billing going forward.
Gene - Jim is correct about retroactive challenges with voluntary programs. However, if the original energy consultant failed to properly advise on available rate options, you might have grounds for a third-party claim. Focus on the RTP application now - ComEd typically has enrollment windows in March and September. You'll need interval data showing consistent load patterns and proof of automated demand response capabilities. Randy D.
Karl D. in Lincoln - not ComEd territory but we see similar issues with OPPD's time-of-use options. Customers miss out on better rates because consultants don't stay current on all available schedules. I maintain a spreadsheet of enrollment periods for every utility we work with. Prevents these situations.
Randy - the building has a sophisticated EMS system and participates in demand response programs already. Should be a slam dunk for RTP qualification. Do you know if ComEd has specific kW or usage minimums for RTP eligibility? The building averages 850kW peak demand. Gene A.
Gene - ComEd requires minimum 500kW average demand over preceding 12 months, so your client qualifies easily. You'll also need demonstrated capability to respond to hourly price signals and a signed acknowledgment of price volatility risks. The application includes a technical review of their energy management systems. Start gathering 24 months of interval data now. Randy D.
Duane K. from Oregon - different utility but similar concept with PGE's Schedule 83 Real Time Pricing. The enrollment process took six months including technical reviews and system testing. Gene, start early and have backup documentation ready. These utilities are thorough on voluntary program applications.
Thanks for all the guidance. Started compiling the interval data and contacted the client's EMS vendor for technical documentation. Targeting the March enrollment window Randy mentioned. Will keep everyone posted on the process. Gene A.
Jim in Sioux Falls - following this thread because we have similar issues with Xcel Energy's TOU options. Customers often end up on default rates when better options exist. Gene, curious how much time you're spending on the ComEd application process?
Jim - so far about 12 hours between data analysis, application prep, and client meetings. The potential annual savings justify the effort but it's definitely not a quick process. ComEd's RTP application is 15 pages plus all the technical attachments. Gene A.
Update - submitted RTP application to ComEd last week. They confirmed receipt and said technical review takes 45-60 days. Fingers crossed for approval in time for summer peak season. The client is excited about potential savings during off-peak hours. Gene A.