National Grid has been giving us estimated reads for three months on a large industrial account. Just got actual reads and they're way higher than estimates - like 40% higher. I suspect there's a multiplier error that the estimates were masking. Has anyone seen estimated billing hide meter problems like this? The account is on Rate G-2 with 1200:5 CTs. - Steven F.
Estimated Reads Masking Multiplier Problems
Steven, absolutely. NPPD did estimated reads on one of our accounts for six months due to AMI communication issues. When they finally got real readings, turned out the meter multiplier was wrong the whole time. The estimates were based on historical usage so nobody caught the hardware error. - Ken G.
This is a significant issue with estimated billing. Estimates are typically based on prior year usage or rolling averages, so they mask actual meter problems. Steven, you need to request National Grid test the meter accuracy and CT ratios immediately. Don't accept "estimates are just estimates" as an answer. If there's a multiplier error, you're entitled to corrected billing from when the problem started, not just going forward. Document everything and consider filing a complaint with the Rhode Island PUC if they resist. - Randy D.
Had similar situation with TVA power distributor here in Tennessee. Six months of estimates, then huge actual readings. Turned out a CT secondary wire was loose, giving intermittent low readings before AMI communication failed entirely. The estimates hid the real problem for months. - Roy K.
Check if National Grid has any interval data from before the estimated period started. If you can compare kW profiles, you might be able to pinpoint when the multiplier problem began. Georgia Power's AMI system keeps 13 months of interval data that helped us prove a similar case. - Derek H.
Rocky Mountain Power does this too. They'll estimate for months rather than fix AMI communication problems. I always insist on manual reads during extended estimation periods to catch these issues early. - Connie A.
What was the actual resolution Steven? I've got a Georgia Power account with similar circumstances - three months of estimates followed by much higher actuals. Trying to determine if it's worth pursuing. - Lee C.
Lee, National Grid tested the meter and found the AMI communication issue was caused by a corroded connection that was also affecting the CT secondary circuit. Multiplier wasn't wrong but readings were artificially low due to the bad connection. Got about $28,000 in billing adjustments. Worth pursuing if your situation is similar. - Steven F.