ABSTRACT
Some tariffs are written in legal (not common) language, making comprehension difficult. One of the best ways to model tariffs and track spending on energy is through utility accounting software such as Energy-CAP or Metrix. This chapter presents an example of an overly long and complex sentence from a tariff, and how it was changed to have the same meaning with more understandable language. For any program to work well, initial setup requires entering at least 2 years of monthly data by account, with consumption, demand, and other major tariff factors shown separately. Tariffs may contain maps showing where such programs apply or links to where more information may be obtained. Taxes are not shown in tariffs. While collected by the utility, they are then paid to governmental entities and may vary across time and geographical boundaries.
