We've been getting different power factor readings from Dominion Energy since they upgraded to their new AMI meters last fall. Our Richmond facility typically runs 0.92-0.95 PF, but the new bills show us dipping to 0.86-0.88 during certain periods. Our correction equipment hasn't changed and our own PF monitoring shows consistent performance. Anyone else in Virginia seeing discrepancies with Dominion's new metering system?
Dominion Energy changed PF measurement method - anyone else notice?
Phil, we're seeing the same thing in Roanoke. Started noticing differences in November when they switched our meter. The new system apparently uses different sampling intervals - 1-second vs the old 15-minute averaging. It's picking up transient PF variations that the old meters missed. Dominion says it's more accurate, but it's costing us money in penalties.
This is a growing issue with smart meters nationwide. The higher resolution measurements can penalize customers for brief PF excursions that older electromechanical meters would have averaged out. You might want to check if Dominion offers any transition provisions or billing adjustments while customers upgrade their correction equipment to handle the new measurement standards.
Randy, that's a good point about transition provisions. I'm going to contact Dominion's large customer service group about this. If the measurement method changed significantly, they should provide some accommodation period for customers to adjust their systems. Bernard, have you tried disputing any of the new penalties?
Not yet, Phil, but I'm documenting everything. Our power quality consultant says the 1-second sampling is catching motor starting transients that last only a few seconds but drop PF to 0.6-0.7. The old meters never saw those events. We might need to install faster-acting correction equipment, but that's a $50K+ upgrade.
Phil, let me know what Dominion says about transition provisions. If enough customers are affected, maybe we can get them to modify their billing algorithm or provide credits during equipment upgrade periods. The Virginia SCC might be interested if this is impacting multiple large customers statewide.