Quick question for anyone familiar with Westar Energy's natural gas operations in Kansas. Have a client being billed on Rate Schedule GS-2 but their usage profile looks more like it should qualify for GS-1 lower rates. The threshold is supposed to be 500 therms per month average, but client only hits that maybe 3-4 months per year during peak season. Westar claims once you're on GS-2 you stay there unless you request a rate review, but their tariff language suggests automatic adjustment based on actual usage. Anyone dealt with Westar gas rate classifications before?
Westar Energy Natural Gas Division Rate Schedule Issues
Bonnie, most gas utilities use a 12-month rolling average to determine rate schedule eligibility, not peak month usage. If your client averaged over 500 therms during their initial 12 months of service, they'd be classified as GS-2 even if current usage is lower. However, Kansas Corporation Commission rules generally require utilities to review rate classifications annually and move customers to lower rates if justified. You should file a formal rate review request with supporting usage data. Westar can't just keep customers on higher rates indefinitely if they no longer qualify.
I've worked with Westar's gas division before when they served parts of Tennessee. Sarah's right about the rolling average, but there's usually a minimum period requirement before you can request reclassification. Most utilities require at least 12 consecutive months of lower usage before moving you down to a lower rate schedule. Check if your client meets that threshold and if so, file the request. The potential savings between GS-1 and GS-2 rates can be substantial, especially on the demand charges.