I'm working with a food processing plant that recently had smart meters installed by Duke Energy. The issue is that the smart meter readings are consistently 3-4% higher than the old mechanical meter readings were running. Plant operations haven't changed, and they're seeing monthly bills increase by $800-900 just from the higher usage readings. Has anyone encountered similar issues with smart meter accuracy? Is there a standard process for challenging meter accuracy with Duke Energy?
Smart meter data discrepancies at manufacturing facility
Smart meter discrepancies are becoming more common. The 3-4% variance you're seeing is actually within the tolerance range for most meters (typically +/- 2-5%), but that doesn't mean it's correct. Request a meter test from Duke Energy - they're required to perform one if you suspect inaccuracy. Also, get copies of the final readings from the old meter and initial readings from the new meter to ensure proper transition. Document any power quality issues that might affect smart meter performance.
I had a similar situation with a Duke Energy account in North Carolina. Turned out the smart meter was picking up some harmonic distortion that the old meter wasn't registering. The food processing equipment was creating power quality issues that inflated the smart meter readings. Duke ended up adjusting the meter programming and provided about $2,400 in billing credits. Definitely push for the meter accuracy test and also consider having a power quality study done if the test comes back 'within tolerance.'