Found a daycare center that's been on Xcel's residential rate for 4 years instead of small commercial. Monthly bills average $2,200 and should be closer to $1,800 on the right schedule. Utility says since it's in a residential area and was originally a home, it qualifies for residential. Anyone dealt with this type of pushback?
Daycare on residential rate - utility won't budge
I've seen this exact situation. The key is demonstrating commercial use regardless of location or building history. If they're operating a business with commercial hours, employee parking, signage, etc., it should be commercial rate. Get copies of their business license and operating permits.
George is spot on. Xcel's tariffs define commercial based on usage, not building type or location. A daycare is clearly commercial operation. If they won't budge, escalate to their regulatory affairs department and mention you're considering a PUC complaint.
Great advice from both of you. I'll gather the business documentation and escalate internally first. The regulatory affairs angle should get their attention since this is pretty black and white from a tariff perspective.