How to Resolve Tesla-PGE Data Discrepancies: Power Losses, Unfavorable Power Factor & System Installations
Tesla vs PGE Discrepancy on Grid Usage
Tesla Solar and Pacific Gas and Electric (PGE) are two of the largest energy providers in the US. Many people use both services to monitor their home's energy consumption, but discrepancies between the two can occur. This article will explore what causes these discrepancies and how to resolve them.
Power losses and unfavorable power factor are two of the most common causes of Tesla-PGE data discrepancies. Power losses refer to the amount of energy lost between the meter and the on-board charger due to wiring resistance and conversion to heat. Unfavorable power factor is when alternating current (AC) apparent power differs from actual power, resulting in a loss of power during conversion to direct current (DC).
It’s possible that an improper system installation could cause this issue. For example, if the Tesla app and electric meter readings differ significantly, then it might be because the current probes were installed incorrectly - either on wrong wires or backwards on correct wires. To fix this problem, you may need to contact Tesla for assistance.
If your system appears to be properly installed, then it’s worth comparing your historical kWH usage with the reported figures. If one figure seems much higher than expected, then it could point towards a faulty meter or inaccurate data recording. In this case, you should contact PGE for assistance as they may need to send out a technician to investigate further.
Overall, discrepancies between Tesla and PGE data can be caused by various factors such as power losses, unfavorable power factor and incorrect system installations. It’s important to compare historical kWH usage with reported figures in order to identify any potential issues. If you suspect there is something wrong with your system, then don’t hesitate to contact either Tesla or PGE for help.
What are the two most common things that cause a discrepancy between Tesla Solar app and PGE data?
Power losses, caused by wiring resistance and conversion to heat, and unfavorable power factor, which affects conversion to direct current (DC) and powering sychronous motors.
Is this related to an EV?
No, it is related to Tesla solar at my house. The same principles apply when charging the powerwall and overall consumption.
Could my system be installed improperly?
Yes, it could be installed on wrong wires or backwards on correct wires. If you notice a discrepancy between the Tesla app and electric meter, contact Tesla for assistance.
How often should I compare the Tesla data to my utility data?
It is recommended to compare the data on a monthly basis. If there is a discrepancy, contact your utility company for further investigation.
Does 121 kWH on a single day seem high?
Yes, it seems very high. Compare your historical kWH of usage to see if it is accurate. If it is higher than usual, contact your utility company to investigate the cause.
What are some other potential causes of discrepancies?
Other potential causes of discrepancies include incorrect meter readings, faulty wiring, or a malfunctioning inverter. It is also possible that your solar system is not producing as much energy as expected.
How can I check for these issues?
You can check for these issues by inspecting the wiring and connections, checking the inverter settings, and comparing the Tesla app data to your utility data. If you notice any discrepancies, contact Tesla or your utility company for assistance.
Is there anything else I should consider?
Yes, consider if there are any changes in your home that could affect energy consumption such as new appliances or additional occupants. Also, make sure to review your utility bill regularly to ensure accuracy.