Learn
Connecting Small PV Systems to Wisconsin's Utility Grid
What You Must Do For the Utility
Working With Utility Representatives
Common Interconnection Issues
Information Resources
Photo 2: Installing PV roofing on the Olympic Natatorium
in Atlanta Georgia
You must submit an application for interconnection to your local public utility. You should complete the application with the assistance of your DG system installer. Interconnection Guidelines (which include application forms and interconnection agreements) are available through your public utility or at http://psc.wi.gov.
We recommend that you do not purchase system components until the application and interconnection agreement have been approved by your public utility (and you have received local approval and permits).
Public utilities should not be charging an application fee (or engineering review fee or distribution study fee) for small DG systems. Your public utility will review your application form and determine if it is complete and if an engineering study or distribution system study is needed. If your paralleling equipment (e.g., the inverter) is UL listed, an engineering review will not be required. If a distribution system study upgrade is needed, you may have to carry its cost.
For PV systems located in the service territories of public utilities, the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin requires that:
- The PV system owner have the written consent of the utility to operate the system.
- The utility provide a contract specifying reasonable technical connection and operating aspects for the PV system.
- The DG system owner is responsible for providing protection for the DG system and adhering to all local, state and national codes and standards.
- The DG system include synchronizing and protective equipment that is satisfactory to the utility. This typically includes a UL listed (non-islanding) inverter and an external disconnect switch.
- The system not unduly affect the utility's voltage wave form.
- The customer pay all interconnection distribution system upgrade costs incurred by the utility when interconnecting your DG system (most likely the cost of a new meter).
- The utility have access to the PV system.
Photo 3: Installing PV shingles.
Photo Credits
Photo 2. Photograph by Greg Miller Productions and U.S. DOE.
Photo 3. Photograph by Warren Gretz.
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