Has anyone dealt with We Energies industrial accounts that show massive usage spikes compared to similar facilities? I've got a manufacturing client in Milwaukee pulling 2.8M kWh monthly versus industry benchmark of 1.9M for comparable square footage and production output. The Cg-2 tariff billing looks correct but something doesn't add up. Plant manager swears operations haven't changed but we're looking at $180K in excess charges over 6 months. Any similar experiences or suggestions on where to dig deeper?
Wisconsin Industrial Client - kWh Usage 40% Above Benchmark?
Linda, I've seen this before with Duquesne Light accounts here in Pittsburgh. First check if they've had any equipment additions or HVAC system changes they might not be tracking properly. Also look at power factor - if it's degraded you could be seeing reactive power charges that inflate total consumption. What's their load factor looking like month to month?
Definitely check the transformer losses if it's a customer-owned substation. We had a Duke Energy client in Charlotte where a failing transformer was drawing an extra 400 kW continuously - plant operations had no idea. Also verify the meter multiplier hasn't been changed without notification. I've caught We Energies doing that before without proper customer notice.
Nashville here - similar issue with TVA industrial customer last year. Turned out they had installed new compressors but didn't realize the startup sequence was causing demand spikes that pushed them into higher rate tiers. The benchmark comparison showed normal total usage but peak demand was killing them. Check their 15-minute interval data for unusual demand patterns.
Great suggestions everyone. Walt, the power factor has indeed dropped to 0.82 from their historical 0.95 - that's definitely contributing. Derek, I'll have them check the transformer. Ed, the interval data shows some concerning 2 AM demand spikes that weren't there before. Looks like we've got multiple issues compounding. Thanks for the direction!
Linda, once you identify the root causes, don't forget to file for billing adjustments. MLGW here in Memphis has been pretty reasonable about retroactive corrections when we can prove equipment failure or utility error. Document everything and push for at least partial credits on the excess charges.
Amir's right about the adjustments. In Tennessee we've had good luck with both TVA and local distributors when armed with solid documentation. Linda, keep us posted on what you find - these multi-factor cases make great learning experiences for everyone.
Update us on the transformer inspection results. If it's failing that's an immediate safety concern beyond just the billing impact. We Energies should prioritize that repair regardless of who owns the equipment.