Overview of the Interconnection Process

Applying for interconnection starts prior to actually submitting your application. This section summarizes the process from prior to application submission through placement in a queue for technical review by PGE.

Pre-application report request

This report is based on the proposed Point of Interconnection (POI) on the PGE system and contains relevant information that may be used to understand the feasibility of interconnecting a DER at the POI. A Pre-Application Request can be made through PowerClerk.

Interconnection type and tier 

The interconnection type (Net Metering, small generator, Community Solar Program) and DER nameplate capacity dictate which interconnection application is needed. Refer to the Distribution Interconnection Handbook to review the specific tier of application needed.

Application requirements 

To be processed, your application must have all applicable fields filled out accurately, all application fees must be paid, and all supporting documentation must be provided. Application fees are based on the tier of an application and the nameplate capacity of the DER. We will follow up with you on missing information.

Your application will enter the interconnection queue when it is deemed “pending completed”. The queue is ranked based on the date and time that we receive the completed application and application fee.

Any changes to the DER other than minor equipment modifications require submission of a new application. It will enter the queue based on the date and time it is deemed “pending completed” – it will not take the place of the original application in the queue.

You can view where your application is in the queue by visiting OASIS and selecting the queue for the project you are submitting. 

Applications may require one or more types of studies. This is determined by our personnel based on the tier of the interconnection application, as well as our analysis of the proposed DER at its proposed Point of Interconnection (POI) or Point of Common Coupling (PCC) on the PGE system. If your application fails one or more technical screens at a given level or tier of screening, you will be required to re-submit at the next higher tier. Refer to the Distribution Interconnection Handbook for more information about screenings and studies by tier.

An interconnection agreement must be signed by you and PGE for every DER prior to the operation of the DER on the PGE system, and you must meet any payment schedules in the interconnection agreement before we initiate its design, procurement, and construction activities to accommodate the DER.

Depending on the technical screening and study results as reflected in your interconnection agreement, a DER interconnection may require construction at the PGE distribution system, substation level, and transmission system. The major utility activities that precede construction of new interconnection facilities and system upgrades are completion of design and procurement of required materials. You will be responsible for all costs pertaining to distribution facilities, substation facilities, transmission facilities, and system upgrades related to the new or modified DER.

PGE does not commission your DER. You are required to provide paperwork indicating that all required inspections by non-utility parties have been completed and all required permits have been obtained. We may require that it be present for commissioning tests.

Our interconnection standards do not end when the DER is energized. They must be adhered to for the full duration of the interconnection agreement, whether or not the DER ceases producing electricity. For a small generator that is a qualifying facility, there may be additional operational requirements in an applicant’s power purchase agreement (PPA) with PGE.