Shadow Metering
Shadow Metering
(OP)
We're considering performing power factor correction at some of our motors and want to be able to verify the I2R loss savings in the distribution system and the savings from lowering the kVAR effects that flow through our electric tariff. (Not seeking any advice here. I'm very comfortable with the concept and options.)
My question is, someone suggested Shadow Metering to verify the savings. I had built spreadsheets that correlate our bills to various variables and was going to monitor those variables against our bill. Any practical thoughts on how to perform meaningful verification of savings without putting chart recorders everywhere? Is Shadow Metering a possibility? Thanks to anyone with experience in this area.
My question is, someone suggested Shadow Metering to verify the savings. I had built spreadsheets that correlate our bills to various variables and was going to monitor those variables against our bill. Any practical thoughts on how to perform meaningful verification of savings without putting chart recorders everywhere? Is Shadow Metering a possibility? Thanks to anyone with experience in this area.





RE: Shadow Metering
The advantage of having metering under your control is being able to configure and read at far closer intervals and with more functions than a utility typically uses, and fit with communications that automate the process. A disadvantage is expectation of exact replication utility-billing quantities.
If the installation is on the North American continent, consider obtaining applicable ANSI C12 standards, and reading, understanding, designing and specifying the system to those standards. Prior to purchase-order release, request and review potential vendors independent test reports of products’ adherence to applicable standards.
RE: Shadow Metering
RE: Shadow Metering
RE: Shadow Metering
I know you did not seek advise on this, but any significant savings will be from reduction in demand charges (kVA reduction) if you are paying demand charges and savings in pf penalty is you are paying it. Savings in I2R losses will be very small and most likely difficult to measure as it may fall within tolerances of the metering accuracy, I am afraid. On the other hand, please post your findings either way and it will be beneficial to all readers.