Hi everyone - I'm working on a ComEd account with what looks like an error in their 15-minute demand billing. The customer is on Rate 6L (Large General Service) and I'm seeing some intervals that seem way too high compared to the usage pattern. The peak demand is showing 847 kW in July but looking at the hourly usage data, I can't see how they'd hit that number. Anyone dealt with similar issues on ComEd accounts? The demand charge alone is costing them $12,700/month. Thanks for any insights!
ComEd Demand Charge Dispute - Need Advice on 15-minute Intervals
Margaret - I've seen this before with ComEd. Sometimes there are meter reading errors or the CT ratio calculation gets messed up. What's the CT ratio on this account? Also, did you get the actual 15-minute interval data or just the summary billing? You need the detailed interval data to really prove your case. ComEd can be stubborn but they'll adjust if you have the documentation.
Marcus - thanks for the quick response! The CT ratio is 400:5 and yes I have the detailed interval data. That's actually how I caught this - there are three 15-minute periods showing 847, 843, and 839 kW but the surrounding intervals are all in the 300-400 range. No way they had that kind of spike without it showing up in adjacent intervals. How do I approach ComEd with this? Do I need to file a formal complaint or can I work with their commercial desk?
Start with their commercial billing department first. I usually send them a spreadsheet showing the interval data with the questionable readings highlighted. Include a cover letter explaining why those readings don't make sense - in your case, the lack of corresponding high usage in adjacent intervals is a dead giveaway. If they push back, then you can escalate to the Illinois Commerce Commission. But most of the time, if you present clear evidence, they'll investigate and adjust. Just be prepared - it can take 60-90 days to get resolution.
Also check if there was any maintenance work done on the meter around those dates. I had a case where they were testing the meter and those test readings got included in the billing data by mistake. Cost the customer almost $30K before we got it sorted out. ComEd actually has a form for disputing demand readings - Form CU-102 I think. Might save you some time.
Phil - great point about the maintenance. I'll check with the facility manager to see if there was any work done. And thanks for the form number - that'll definitely help. Rodney, I'll put together that spreadsheet and cover letter. Really appreciate everyone's help on this. I'll post back once I hear something from ComEd.
Just following up Margaret - any word from ComEd? I'm curious how this turned out since I have a similar case brewing with another client.