Getting ready to send three junior auditors to take their CUBA certification next spring. The study materials seem to have been updated recently - anyone know what's changed? Last time I took someone through this was 2019 and the power quality section was pretty thin. Are they still using the same case studies or have those been refreshed too? MLGW has some unique tariff structures I want to make sure they're prepared for.
CUBA certification study materials - what's working these days?
Randy, they definitely updated the materials in early 2021. The power quality section is much more comprehensive now - includes harmonics analysis and voltage regulation issues. The case studies are about 60% new, including some really good demand response scenarios. Entergy Arkansas has some complex time-of-use structures that are well represented in the new materials.
The updated materials are definitely better. Xcel Energy scenarios are much more realistic now. They added a whole section on distributed generation billing that wasn't there before. The practice exams are harder but more representative of what you'll actually see on the real test. Took me three attempts with the old materials, passed first try with the new ones.
That's encouraging to hear Lori. The distributed generation piece is huge - we're seeing more and more solar installations affecting commercial bills here in Memphis. Are they covering net metering calculations and how different utilities handle excess generation credits? Some of our MLGW accounts are looking at solar and I want my team ready for those complexities.
Yes, they cover net metering pretty thoroughly. There's a whole chapter on how different states and utilities handle excess generation. Arkansas has some unique provisions that are included in the case studies. The interconnection fee structures and standby charges are covered too. Much more comprehensive than before.
Just passed my CUBA last month using the new materials. The solar billing section was actually on my exam - glad I studied it thoroughly. One thing that's new is they include real utility tariff excerpts instead of simplified examples. Makes it more challenging but definitely more realistic. Entergy Arkansas tariff language can be pretty complex and they don't dumb it down in the study guide.