Originally Posted by jcc
Beating a dead horse here it seems, not sure I understand why 3 phase costs more from the utility, usually the main power monthly costs are per kw used, 3 phase has no other real downside, if OP ever finds a use for it, like with a "real" compressor, lathe, mill, etc it will be a real plus if functional, all other normal "single phase" equipment can usually run off of a 3 phase system, and if hell bent on downsizing the existing wiring, ditch the single phase distribution. My leaning towards the 3 phase here is assuming its a 120/208V 3 phase, if a higher voltage system, never mind. grin


3 phase has higher base charges and higher KWh charge. Each voltages served has different rates.

Residential rates are less than commercial rates. Ag rates different than commercial rates. Water pumping rates different than barn/equipment rates... on and on

Commercial rates have levels/classes of avg KW per month. IE: up to 20kW, 21-199kW, etc

With Smart Metering we can do Time of Use rate. So charged different for peak vs off-peak use. Charge you car in middle of night for cheaper off-peak rates.

Your Public Utility Commissions dictates this stuff.

Last edited by autoxcuda; 12/03/20 02:33 AM.