Greg from Augusta. A client signed a voluntary rate class change offered by their utility two years ago. At the time they thought the new rate would be cheaper. After two years of bills it is clearly not — their load profile changed in ways they did not anticipate. Now they want to go back to the old rate. Is that possible?
Client switched rate classes voluntarily — now they want to go back
Vince from Hartford. It depends entirely on whether the old rate still exists and whether the utility will allow a switch back. Some voluntary rate programs have lock-in periods. What does the original rate change agreement say?
There is a two-year lock-in period which just expired last month. So the timing is actually good.
Kevin from Louisville. Perfect timing then. The path forward is straightforward — request the rate change back to the original schedule in writing. Most utilities will process that without issue since the lock-in has expired.
Phil from Tampa. Check whether the old rate schedule still exists. Utility rate cases sometimes consolidate or retire schedules. If the old rate was discontinued you may need to find the closest current equivalent.
The old rate still exists. I confirmed with the utility's rate booklet.
Meredith from Raleigh. Then it should be a routine request. Draft a letter on behalf of your client requesting restoration to the prior rate class effective the next billing cycle.
Vince from Hartford. No retroactive component here. The client voluntarily agreed to the rate change and it was correctly applied throughout. Go forward, not backward.