Has anyone noticed changes in how Dominion Energy Virginia calculates power factor penalties? Our client in Richmond got dinged for $8,900 last month under Schedule GS-3, but the same facility had similar load patterns all year with no penalties. Called the utility and they mentioned something about "updated measurement protocols" but wouldn't give specifics. The rep claimed they're now measuring power factor "more accurately" but that sounds like utility speak for "we found a new way to extract money." Anyone else seeing this?
Dominion Energy - New PF Measurement Method?
Bill, I haven't seen changes with Dominion here in Staunton yet, but that "updated measurement protocols" language is suspicious. Could be they switched from demand-weighted power factor to energy-weighted power factor calculation. The difference can be significant for facilities with variable loads. Have you compared the actual power factor values they're reporting versus what your client's own monitoring shows?
Alice, good point about the calculation method. The monthly bill shows PF of 0.81 but the client's Schneider Electric meter consistently reads 0.87-0.89. That's a huge discrepancy. I suspect they changed something in their billing system without proper notice. Virginia SCC requires 30-day notice for tariff changes but "measurement protocols" might be a loophole they're exploiting.
Bill, I'm seeing the exact same issue with a client in Knoxville but it's TVA territory so different utility. Started in August - sudden power factor penalties when none existed before. The common thread might be new smart meters or updated firmware. TVA admitted they had "calibration adjustments" on some Itron meters. File a formal complaint with Virginia SCC and demand they explain the measurement change in writing.