Cases not covered under "automatic exemptions" will be
granted an exemption if the benefit-to-cost ratio is less than one (1) with
respect to separate metering using the cost effectiveness test guidelines
described below. The burden of proof rests with the person requesting exemption
and the evidence required to sustain that burden must demonstrate that the
long-run benefits of individual metering to the electric consumer are less than
the costs of purchasing and installing separate meters. Written requests to the
utility for an exemption will be given consideration based upon the following
criteria and conditions:
A. "New
buildings" shall be defined as those structures or mobile home parks for which
a building permit is obtained on or after August 1, 1984, or, if no permit is
required, for which construction is commenced on or after August 1, 1984.
Construction is defined to begin when footings are poured.
B. The benefits shall be quantified in
dollars of savings and shall reflect the difference in electricity use which
results when separate metering is utilized rather than master-metering. The
lump sum savings shall reflect a present worth analysis using as a discount
rate the percentage interest rate of long-term debt such as the utility's
latest long-term bond issue, or a mortgage rate, and a period equal to the
estimated life of the building. Such analysis, including its preparation and
expense, shall be the sole responsibility of the customer.
C. The customer's determination of benefit
shall be based on electric service supplied by the utility at electric service
rates and regulations approved by the Commission, including but not limited to,
regulations that prohibit resale of electric service to any other person or
entity unless taking service under rate schedules that specifically provide for
reselling.
D. The cost shall be
quantified in dollars and shall reflect the current difference in installed
cost between master and individual metering. The lump sum differential cost
reflecting the purchase and installation of separate meters versus a single
meter shall be prepared by the utility. The preparation of the differential
costs of meter bases and building wiring shall be the sole responsibility of
the customer; and
E. The
benefit-to-cost ratio shall equal the present worth of benefits described in
paragraph (b) divided by the current (present worth) costs described in
paragraph (d).
