Members interested in installing their own solar panels can begin the process of applying for interconnection here. Riverland Energy Cooperative will work with members to ensure that generation equipment is installed in a proper and safe manner and in accordance with all applicable codes, standards, regulations, laws, and insurance requirements. Members will be responsible for coordinating the installation and approval of electric power generators with the local code inspection authority (township or municipal).
If you are interested in installing solar on your home or business served by Riverland Energy Cooperative, here are some things you need to do:
Contact Us: Before investing in a solar system, contact us to discuss your plan. Let us help you decide what makes the most sense for your home. Make an extensive plan to ensure your project goes smoothly. We will let you know of rates, requirements, and obtain your annual usage report. If you're interested, please call us at 800-411-9115, or send an email to shayes@riverlandenergy.com.
Research and select a reputable contractor: It is a good idea to get multiple bids from reputable contractors. The contractor can help you with any rebates or credits that may be available. Riverland Energy Cooperative does not have a rebate for distributed generation systems, solar, or wind. If you want to talk to a contractor, be sure to check references.
Solar Payback Reference: Use the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) calculator to help you figure out your estimated energy output and compare estimated cost at www.PVWatts.nrel.gov.
Interconnection Process
- Complete and submit the following documents to shayes@riverlandenergy.com:
- Wisconsin Public Service Commission Interconnection Application and Interconnection Agreement Under 20kW:
- Wisconsin Public Service Commission Interconnection Application and Interconnection Agreement 20kW- 40kW
- Wisconsin Solar Photovoltaic Supplement
- Wisconsin Energy Storage Supplement (Only required if system has energy storage)
- Site plan
- One-line diagram
- Liability Insurance coverage copies
- Greater than 20kW minimum of $1,000,000
- Under 20kW minimum 300,000
- Equipment data sheets with UL/IEEE listings
**A $200 records and origination fee will be applied to the members bill
2. Set up an on-site pre-inspection with a Riverland Energy Meter Technician and the solar installer prior to installing equipment.
- Your existing metering and service drop will need to be evaluated. Any upgrades required due to the installation will be subject to charges based on the current Riverland Energy service upgrade procedures and policies.
- The size of the system will determine if we need to have an engineering study completed. Most of the installations we currently have on our distribution system offset a portion of the electric consumption at the account. If a system is designed to produce more than you consume, you will get avoided cost for the additional energy produced. Which is less than half of the retail rates. No system can be sized to produce more than 120% of their annual usage.
- Solar disconnect and interconnection requirements will be discussed.
- Battery Disconnect: any system with a battery must have a disconnect on the exterior of the dwelling for disconnecting the battery.
3. Install System
4. Notify Riverland Energy Cooperative when the project is complete and ready for commissioning.
Meter Technician Checklist
DG Disconnect:
- Within 10ft. of main meter/outside of 10ft must be approved by a Riverland Energy Meter Technician (REC requirement)
- Disconnect switch to be labeled as “Interconnection Disconnect Switch” (PSC119.20)
- Post procedure for disconnecting the DG next to the switch (PSC 119.20)
- Disconnect Switch must provide a visual break (PSC 119.20)
- Disconnect switch accessible to utility personnel at all times (PSC 119.20)
- Disconnect switch must be capable of being locked out (PSC 119.20)
Anit Islanding Test
- Voltage to zero within ten seconds (REC Requirement)
DG Interconnection
- DG Interconnection to load side of meter socket allowed with UL approved double lugs (REC Requirement)
- No Polaris connection allowed (REC Requirement)
No dual fuel sub-metering application allowed.