Kelly B. in Riverside CA - Southern California Edison installed new CTs last month and our bill tripled overnight. Clearly a multiplier problem but they're refusing to do a meter test, claiming everything is programmed correctly. Our Schedule TOU-GS-3 bill went from $8,000 to $24,000 with no change in operations. What are our rights to demand testing in California?
Utility refusing meter test after obvious multiplier error
Kelly B., in California you have the right to request a meter test, and the utility must perform it within a reasonable timeframe. If the meter tests accurate (within 2%), you may have to pay the testing fee, but if there's an error, the utility pays and must adjust your billing. File a formal written request citing California PUC Rule 10 regarding meter testing. A tripling of your bill after CT replacement is prima facie evidence of a metering error. Don't pay the disputed amount until the test is completed.
Pete T. in San Jose - SCE pulled the same stunt with us. File a complaint with the CPUC immediately. Once you have a complaint number, SCE usually becomes much more cooperative about testing. The CPUC takes metering disputes seriously, especially when bills change dramatically after utility equipment modifications.
Bob A. from Irvine - had SCE do this exact thing last year. They replaced 600:1 CTs with 1200:1 but programmed the meter for the old ratio. Created a 2x overbill for four months. The meter test showed the programming error immediately. Push for expedited testing given the obvious billing anomaly.
Filed the CPUC complaint yesterday and suddenly SCE scheduled the meter test for next week. Funny how that works. Will update once we get results but pretty confident it's a programming error based on your experiences.
Meter test confirmed it - CTs are 800:1 but programmed for 400:1, causing exactly 2x overbilling. SCE admitted the error and is processing a $32,000 adjustment back to November 1st. Thanks Randy D. and everyone for pushing me to demand the test. The CPUC complaint definitely got their attention.
Jennifer C. in Anchorage - Chugach Electric tried to refuse our meter test too until we mentioned filing with the RCA. Amazing how regulatory complaints change attitudes. Glad you got resolution Kelly B.
Roy H. from Birmingham - Alabama Power used to pull this until the PSC issued new rules about meter testing timelines. Now they have to complete tests within 10 business days of a written request. Regulatory pressure definitely works.