Found some major billing errors on a 28-unit apartment complex in Nampa that's been master-metered by Idaho Power for 12 years. They've been on Schedule 7 (Large General Service) instead of the residential schedule, and it's been costing them about $400/month in unnecessary demand charges. The complex has minimal common area usage - just hallway lighting and a small laundry room. Anyone familiar with Idaho Power's criteria for residential vs commercial classification on apartments?
Idaho Power apartment complex billing errors
Glenda, I've dealt with similar issues in Boise. Idaho Power is usually pretty reasonable about reclassifying apartments to residential rates if the usage pattern supports it. The key is demonstrating that it's primarily residential load, not commercial. With only 28 units and minimal common area usage, you should have a strong case. I'd file a rate schedule review request with supporting load analysis. They typically review these within 30-45 days.
Warren, thanks for the advice. I'll prepare the analysis and submit the request this week. The property owner is hoping for some retroactive adjustment too - 12 years of incorrect billing could add up to significant money. Do you know if Idaho Power typically offers any retroactive credits for billing classification errors, or are we limited to prospective corrections only?