Uncovering rate, rider and metering errors at a diversified agribusiness
The parent company had worked with Discovery since 2011. When it acquired a grain, flour and soybean business in 2018, we audited the new accounts instead of assuming they were right. Five separate problems surfaced across Kansas, Nebraska and North Carolina.
$117,412.14One-time refunds
~$120,000Recurring savings a year
38% / 31%Average rate reductions, two sites
The five findings
| Site | Issue | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Scott City, Kansas | Rate class no longer matched usage | Reclassified; 38% average reduction |
| Stella, Nebraska | Rate class no longer matched usage | Reclassified; 31% average reduction |
| North Carolina (Duke Energy) | Paying an optional rider the site could opt out of | About 6 mils per kWh lower; ~$120,000 a year |
| Clayton, North Carolina | Demand meter stuck at one value for months, then at a second value above the schedule's maximum | $97,843.45 refund |
| Clayton, North Carolina | Rate schedule correction | $19,568.69 refund |
Duke Energy confirmed the demand-meter error and issued the refund.
What it shows
- Rate classes, optional riders and meter readings drift out of alignment independently; each needs its own test.
- An acquisition is the right trigger for a fresh audit.
- A demand reading that never moves is a warning sign worth taking to the utility.