no, utility companies don't monitor user accounts. If you pay your bill on time, every time, you're just a good customer- and they'd like you to use a bit more if you don't mind.
My op is 2x 1000HPS for flowering plus a 400HPS for veg, 3500W for 12h/day, 1300W for 12h/day- for the last 8 years. If someone is monitoring my power usage with intent to tip off the coppers, they're doing a shitty job.
He said he uses more than 3kW.... How in the hell could the electric company know whether you're cooking a turkey dinner or growing pot? A microwave probably sucks up a good 1100w, your tv is atleast 500w, your computer? 900w+ with monitor...
No, I do have mains power (and mains natural gas), but we're waaaaaaay rural and power lines are above ground. One windstorm and we're off the grid for a few days. The gas and water keep going though, being below ground.
I linked to that page cos it was easy to find a pic of a 15kW genset, not because I have one of that brand nor because I bought it from the company on the website linked.
Yes, but a grow op is composed of more than lights. I have 2660W committed to HPS lighting. The rest up to the 3500W draw with everything on is supporting devices.
They don't as a general rule. Old style mechanical power meters (spinning disc, big glass jar) have no means of recording load history. All the pwr co gets is a total kWh reading between meter reads.