Solar Energy

FOR THE MEMBER:

Solar electricity (also called photovoltaic or PV solar) is another form of alternative energy; it uses sunlight to generate electricity. If you are interested in installing solar on your home or business served by Riverland Energy Cooperative, here are some things you need to know: 

  • Contact us. Before investing in a solar electric system, contact us to discuss your plan. Let us help you decide what makes the most sense for your home, and make sure your plans comply and your project goes smoothly. We will let you know of rates, requirement, and obtain your annual usage report. If you're interested, please call us at (800) 411-9115 or send an e-mail 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 talk to a contractor, be sure to check references. 
  • Solar Payback Reference: Use the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) calculator to help you figure estimated energy output and compare estimated cost: www.PVWatts.nrel.gov

INTERCONNECTION PROCESS

  1. Complete and submit the following documents to shayes@riverlandenergy.com: 
  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. The REC requirements are listed below. 
    • 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.

FOR CONTRACTORS:

Meter Technician Checklist

DG Disconnect:

  • Within 10 ft. 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. 

 

 

For all Distributed Generation (DG) installations, please contact:

Scott Hayes – Manager of Energy Services
shayes@riverlandenergy.com
Office: (800) 411-9115

 

 

HELPFUL DOCUMENTS

10-Steps to Installing Solar 

Solar-Installer Questions 

Solar- What size is right for you?

 

 

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