Xcel Energy Colorado just announced a 12% rate increase effective April 1st. I have several commercial clients asking me to analyze the impact and suggest mitigation strategies. The increase hits both energy and demand charges. For a typical client with $8,000 monthly bills, we're looking at an extra $960 per month. What strategies are others recommending to help clients deal with significant rate increases?
Rate Increase Impact Analysis - Xcel Energy Colorado
Welcome to the forum! Rate increases are a great opportunity to revisit everything - rate schedules, power factor, demand management, tax exemptions. A 12% increase makes previously marginal savings opportunities more attractive. I'd also look at energy efficiency upgrades that might now have better payback periods. Sometimes rate increases motivate clients to make operational changes they've been putting off. Use it as a chance to do a comprehensive audit review.