Why does my Base app show different energy used compared to my utility bill?
Note: This answer is for members who get their electricity from a utility partner, like a local electric co-op.
The energy use in your Base app can be lower than the energy use on your utility bill. Seeing a difference is expected, and you should refer to your utility bill or portal for the most accurate energy-use and billing data.
Energy use is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). Your Base app and your utility meter both measure kWh, but they come from different sources and count slightly different things.
1. They come from different sources
Your utility bill measures from your meter, which is on the outside of your home. It counts all the energy that comes into your home from the grid.
Your Base app measures from your battery. It shows how much energy your home used through the battery, and how much energy the battery stored and sent out.
2. A small amount of energy is lost when your battery charges and discharges
Your Base battery charges when energy demand is low and sends power back to the grid when demand is high. This is called grid-balancing, and it helps keep the grid stable for your whole community.
Each time energy moves into and out of the battery, a small amount is lost. This happens with any electrical equipment, from a phone charger to a refrigerator, and is unavoidable. Your meter counts this energy, and your battery does not.
Over a month, these small amounts add up. That is why the number on your bill can be higher than the number in your app.
What this means for your bill
Your utility automatically adds a credit to your bill to offset this lost energy. How the credit is calculated depends on your utility. Look for it as a separate line on your monthly bill.
Which number should I use?
Use your utility bill. It is the official record of your energy use and what you pay for. The Base app is best for seeing how your battery is working.
Still have questions?
For questions about your bill or the credit, contact your utility. For questions about your battery or the Base app, contact Base at support@basepowercompany.com or (512) 518-1009.