Anyone else dealing with CPS Energy here in Texas? Their gas cost recovery true-up charges have been absolutely brutal this year. One of my commercial clients got hit with a $43,000 true-up bill for "winter storm cost recovery." The calculation methodology in their tariff is completely opaque and customer service can't explain how they arrived at these numbers.
CPS Energy gas true-up charges getting ridiculous
Vivian, we're seeing similar issues with utilities across Texas after the February freeze. MLGW here in Memphis isn't directly affected but I've been helping colleagues with Oncor and TXU issues. The key is understanding whether they're spreading extraordinary costs over current customers only or including future rate base recovery. Most utilities are required to file detailed cost recovery plans with the PUC.
This is exactly why I avoid CPS Energy audits when possible. Their rate structures are incredibly complex and they seem to change the rules mid-stream. Here with CenterPoint in San Antonio we at least get consistent application of tariff provisions. Have you tried escalating to their regulatory affairs department? Sometimes they're more helpful than customer service.
Angela, tried regulatory affairs and they just referred me back to customer service. It's like they're playing hot potato with this issue. The worst part is they're applying these true-up charges to ALL rate classes, including small commercial customers who can't afford these kinds of surprise bills. Seems like there should be some kind of cap or payment plan option.
Vivian, you might want to check with the Texas PUC directly. We had a similar issue up here in Montana with NorthWestern Energy after a gas supply emergency. Filed a formal complaint with the PSC and got much better responses. Sometimes utilities need regulatory pressure to provide proper documentation and explanations for extraordinary cost recovery charges.