Discussion series on PURPA related topics
The master metering of electricity was investigated in nine of the Pilot Implementation Projects. These studies showed that master metering increased the level of energy consumption by as much as 40% in some areas and 11% in others. One study of housing units before and after conversion to individual metering showed consumption reductions of 17 and 20%. Two costs of eliminating master metering other than the cost of meters were: the loss of centralized space conditioning and hot water systems and increased building costs. It was found that centralized space heating systems used 10 to 15% less energy than individual systems. In one Project it was estimated that construction costs in high rise buildings could increase by around $3,000 per apartment if master metering was eliminated. Five alternatives to eliminating master metering were examined or considered. Submetering was reviewed but the lack of reliable and economical submeters prevented its testing. Another alternative was to bill master metered customers on multiple block rates. This was used in one Project and it eliminated the cost advantage of master metering. Although alternatives to the elimination of master metering were examined most commission actions were directed at its elimination. Most commissions exempted specific uses such as centralized hot water and central heating and cooling systems. Typically the ban on master metering was for new construction.
- Research Organization:
- City Utilities of Springfield, MO (USA)
- DOE Contract Number:
- 01-77ZZ00335
- OSTI ID:
- 6705601
- Report Number(s):
- DOE/RG/00335-05
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
POLICY AND ECONOMY
32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATION
APARTMENT BUILDINGS
ENERGY CONSERVATION
POWER DEMAND
MASTER METERING
DEMONSTRATION PROGRAMS
ECONOMICS
PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES ACT
BUILDINGS
LAWS
METERING
NATIONAL ENERGY ACT
RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS
296000* - Energy Planning & Policy- Electric Power
320101 - Energy Conservation
Consumption
& Utilization- Residential Buildings- (-1987)