Quick question for anyone familiar with PG&E in Northern California. I've got a 65-unit apartment complex in Santa Rosa that's currently on Schedule A-6 (small commercial). The property uses about 45,000 kWh per month with peak demand around 85 kW. PG&E is saying we should move to E-19 (medium commercial) but the rate analysis is confusing with all the time-of-use periods. Has anyone done a comparison between these two rate schedules for similar sized apartment buildings? The monthly bills are running $7,200-$8,900 depending on season.
PG&E master meter rates - Schedule A-6 vs E-19?
Iris, I work mostly with Pacific Power up in Oregon but the principles are similar. E-19 typically has higher demand charges but lower energy rates, especially during off-peak hours. For apartments, the usage pattern is usually pretty good for time-of-use rates since most consumption is evenings and weekends when rates are lower. You'd need to do a 12-month analysis with your actual hourly usage data to see which works better. PG&E should be able to provide that data if you request it.
Iris, I've done several A-6 vs E-19 analyses for apartment complexes in the Bay Area. With 85 kW demand, you're right at the threshold where it could go either way. The key factors are your load factor and how much usage you have during peak hours (4-9 PM on weekdays). If your apartments have electric water heating or A/C that runs during peak hours, A-6 might be better. If most usage is evenings and weekends, E-19 usually saves money. Happy to look at your bills if you want to send them privately.