This Standardized Interconnection Requirements and Application Process for New Distributed Generators and/or Energy Storage Systems 5 MW or Less Connected in Parallel with Utility Distribution Systems (SIR) provides a framework for processing applications to: 

● Interconnect new distributed generation (DG) facilities with an alternating current (AC) generator nameplate rating of 5 MW or less aggregated on the customer side of the point of common coupling (PCC);  

● Interconnect new energy storage system (ESS) facilities with an AC inverter/converter nameplate rating of 5 MW or less aggregated on the customer side of the PCC that may be stand-alone systems or combined with existing or new DG (Hybrid Projects), however, maximum export capacity onto the utility distribution system is capped at an AC nameplate rating or AC inverter/converter nameplate rating of 5 MW; and,  

● Review any modifications affecting the interface at the PCC to existing DG and/or ESS facilities with an AC nameplate rating of 5 MW or less (aggregated on the customer side of the PCC) that have been interconnected to the utility distribution system, and where an existing contract between the applicant and the utility is in place. 

Distributed Generation or Energy Storage Systems neither designed to operate, nor operating, in parallel with the utility’s electrical system are not subject to these requirements.  This document will ensure that applicants are aware of the technical interconnection requirements and utility interconnection policies and practices.  This SIR will also provide applicants with an understanding of the process and information required to allow utilities to review and accept the applicants’ equipment for interconnection in a reasonable and expeditious manner. 

The time required to complete the process will reflect the complexity of the proposed project.  Projects using previously submitted designs certified per the requirements of Section II.H, Equipment Certification, will move through the process more quickly, and several steps may be satisfied with an initial application depending on the detail and completeness of the application and supporting documentation submitted by the applicant.  Applicants submitting systems utilizing certified equipment however, are not exempt from providing utilities with complete design packages necessary for the utilities to verify the electrical characteristics of the generator systems, the interconnecting facilities, and the impacts of the applicants’ equipment on the utilities’ systems. 

The application process and the attendant services must be offered on a nondiscriminatory basis.  The utilities must clearly identify their costs related to the applicants’ interconnections, specifically those costs the utilities would not have incurred but for the applicants’ interconnections.  The utilities will keep a log of all applications, milestones met, and justifications for application-specific requirements.  The applicants are to be responsible for payment of the utilities’ costs, as provided for herein.  Any unspent project analysis/study fees shall be applied forward to any subsequent analysis applicable to a given application/project. 

All application timelines shall commence the next Business Day following receipt of information from the applicant or the utility.  For purposes of determining the date of an applicant’s payment, when a payment is required, fees paid by wire transfer shall be deemed paid on the day of the transfer, whereas fees paid by check shall be deemed paid on the day the check clears. 

Staff of the Department of Public Service (“DPS Staff”) will monitor the application process to ensure that applications are addressed in a timely manner.  To perform this monitoring function, DPS Staff will meet periodically with utility and applicant representatives. 

A glossary of terms used herein is provided in Section III