Managing a 95-unit apartment complex in San Jose on PG&E service. Currently on A-6 time-of-use but considering A-10 general service. Monthly usage averages 85,000 kWh with peak demand around 180 kW. A-6 rates are killing us during summer months - last July was $11,200 vs $8,900 in December. Has anyone run the numbers on switching to A-10 for similar size properties?
PG&E Schedule A-6 vs A-10 for apartment complex - which is better?
Pete, you're right in that sweet spot where either could work. A-10 might be better if your load factor is decent and you can avoid demand charges. What's your off-peak vs peak usage split? If tenants are home during the day running AC, A-6 TOU might actually cost more than straight A-10 general service rates.
Jennifer, the load profile is pretty typical residential - peak usage 6-9 PM and weekends. Summer peak period usage is about 40% of total kWh. Demand stays fairly consistent around 180 kW because of the pool pumps and central laundry. I'm thinking A-10 might eliminate the demand charge headache.
Be careful with A-10 - there's still a demand component, just structured differently. With 180 kW demand, you might hit the threshold where A-10 becomes more expensive than A-6. CPS Energy has similar rate structures here in Texas. I'd run a full year analysis before switching.
Angela's right about running the analysis. Entergy has comparable rates and we've seen properties regret switching without doing the math. PG&E usually has rate analysis tools on their website, or you can request a formal rate study. Don't forget to factor in any switching fees or deposit requirements.
In Florida with FPL we see similar decision points. The key is your coincident peak demand vs your actual usage patterns. If your complex peaks at the same time as the grid peak, TOU rates like A-6 can be brutal. A-10 might give you more predictable bills even if the total annual cost is slightly higher.