EV Estimator & High Peak Locator tools now available

Members now have access to tools to identify residential customers with specific load patterns.
The EV Estimator identifies load patterns consistent with Level 2 EV charging, while the High Peak Locator identifies residential customers with the highest 15-minute kWh usage. Data from these tools can be used for system planning purposes and targeted customer communications. Residential AMI data is required for analysis.

The 2024 Residential Customer Feedback Survey results show that customers want tailored utility support and resources to help manage their energy costs. A total of 91% said they place high importance on effective customer service and 73% supported access to utility resources, such as rate options, programs and services. These tools help customers plan, manage and better understand the cost of their electricity use. The EV Estimator and High Peak Locator give members another tool to deliver customers with valuable resources.

EV Estimator

The EV Estimator Tool identifies residential customers who have load profiles consistent with Level 2 electric vehicle chargers. This tool operates by finding charging intervals, which are defined as periods of at least 60 minutes, appearing as a plateau of at least 7.6 kW. The tool also uses criteria to ensure that the load follows a typical EV charger profile: a substantial initial load that may or may not taper off. This methodology effectively identifies a typical Level 2 charging profile.

The EV Estimator tool is not perfect. Some electric vehicle chargers will be missed. That includes those who charge at lower rates (ex. Level 1 chargers) or those who charge vehicles very infrequently or for very short durations. The EV Estimator may also identify very large resistive loads that mimic an EV charger, such as electric kilns or saunas. Analysis should be run during shoulder months such as October and April to avoid the impact of air conditioning and electric heat on the analysis.

Data from the EV Estimator may be used in several ways:

  • System Planning: Identifying where EVs may be located on the system and considering the addition of verified EVs on a GIS map for planning purposes.
  • Transformer Monitoring: Using the transformer loading tool, members may run ad hoc reports to determine the loading of transformers with known or suspected EVs.
  • Customer Outreach: Data shows that customers find value in tailored communications and the EV Estimator creates the opportunity to contact likely EV customers. Messaging can include encouragement to charge off-peak, information about optional rates like RG-2 and RG-3, promotion of MyAccount and positioning the utility as a trusted advisor and resource.

High Peak Locator

The High Peak Locator analyzes monthly data to find each customer’s highest 15-minute peak demand. Customers are sorted into “buckets” based on their peak demand. Members can use this data to identify, track and contact customers with high peak demands. This report is based on the previous 12 months of data and can be run at any time.

Data from the High Peak Locator may be used in several ways:

  • Energy Efficiency: Identify where on the system high demand residential customers may be located. Consider targeting customers for energy efficiency efforts.
  • Transformer Monitoring: Run ad hoc reports using the transformer loading tool to determine the loading of transformers with high peak customers.
  • Customer Outreach: Use tailored communication with the High Peak Locator to contact customers with large demands and encourage them to investigate these loads with MyAccount. High peaks can sometimes indicate equipment issues, so alerting customers can be a valuable service. In other cases, customers may benefit from optional rates like RG-2 and RG-3.

Utility staff can contact their ESM to get started.