Client in Kansas City is on Evergy's MGS rate schedule with demand charges at $16.50/kW summer months. Building runs about 280 kW peak demand mostly from HVAC. The local Evergy rep is pushing their Smart Thermostat program that cycles AC units during peak hours. Claims we could see 15-20% demand reduction but worried about comfort complaints. Anyone have experience with utility cycling programs? Worth the demand savings or more trouble than it's worth?
Evergy rate schedule - HVAC cycling worth the demand savings?
We tried Ameren's cycling program here in Springfield a few years back. The demand savings were real - about 18% reduction during peak periods. But the complaints from tenants were constant. Even with the 15-minute maximum cycle time, people noticed. Ended up dropping out after six months. The bill savings weren't worth the headaches with building occupants.
TVA has a similar program and we've had better luck with it. Key is managing expectations upfront. We only enroll zones that can handle a few degrees of temperature swing without major comfort issues. Conference rooms, storage areas, lobbies work well. Avoid executive offices and server rooms obviously. Got about $2,800 in annual savings with minimal complaints.
AEP Texas has incentives for load curtailment that might be better than cycling. They pay you to reduce load during emergency events - maybe 10-15 times per summer. You maintain full control and can opt out if needed. We typically shut down non-essential HVAC zones and dim lighting. Made $4,200 last summer with very little impact on operations.
Georgia Power offers both options. The cycling program pays less but runs automatically. The curtailment program pays more but requires manual response. We went with curtailment because facilities staff wanted control. When they call an event, we just bump thermostats up 3 degrees and turn off half the parking lot lights. Easy money and we stay comfortable.