Paper: Malcom Smith, Energy Data Source, LP, Jim Uhelski, Pioneer Natural Resources, Inc., Kirk Mehaffey, Superior Optimization, Ltd.

Many Texas operators benefited from interruptible electric rates before deregulation in 2002. Several operators are now participating in a similar program called Load Acting As a Resource (LaaR) and saving 5-10% on monthly electric bills. In the last 30 months only four interruptions have occurred, each lasting between 7 and 22 minutes. LaaR requires onsite monitoring and control equipment along with suitable communication (telemetry) equipment or services, the cost of which often pays out in 1-6 months. Real-time telemetry needed for LaaR can augment or underwrite SCADA deployment. Web-based tools enable customers to participate, monitor and respond to LaaR events with minimal impact on critical production operations.