Just finished a 95-location retail audit and found some interesting patterns. About 60% of locations had demand multiplier errors, mostly in ComEd and Ameren territory. Also found that newer locations (built after 2010) had better rate classifications but worse power factor issues. Anyone else seeing similar trends in their portfolio work?
Portfolio audit results - patterns anyone else seeing?
Elmer, we're seeing the exact same thing with demand multipliers in ComEd territory. Something changed in their billing system around 2014 and they've been applying the wrong factors to medium commercial accounts. We've recovered an average of $1,200/month per location on those corrections.
The power factor issue makes sense - newer buildings have more electronic equipment (LED drivers, VFDs, etc.) without proper correction. We found 12 locations where installing power factor correction equipment paid for itself in 8 months just from the utility savings.
Good insights all around. The demand multiplier errors in ComEd/Ameren are definitely a known issue - worth checking any commercial accounts in Illinois from 2014-2016 timeframe. Wade's point about power factor correction is spot on too. Modern retail equipment can really mess with power factor if not properly managed.