Interconnection Qualifications – What, How and Where
Learn more about the interconnection programs offered, facility types and location requirements.
This information is intended to help guide you through the process of interconnecting distributed energy resources (DERs) to the PGE system. Refer to our complete Distribution Interconnection Handbook for more detailed information.
Interconnection programs offered
For more information, refer to section 1.5.1 of the Distribution Interconnection Handbook.
Net Metering (2MW max)
We offer Net Metering to applicants interested in offsetting their electricity consumption as an existing retail service customer of PGE. Under Net Metering, customers will receive credit, referred to as excess generation, tracked via bidirectional meter. This is based on kilowatt-hours (kWh) provided to the PGE system during a given billing period. The energy provided is deducted from the customer consumption prior to billing.
Community Solar Program (CSP) (3MW max)
Customers seeking to install solar DERs to sell power to PGE end-user subscribers within the Community Solar Program (CSP) may apply for interconnection of DERs up to 3 MW in capacity. The interconnection requirements for CSP DERs are similar to small generator requirements, though they differ in some respects such as the possibility of joint study for applications in limited circumstances. CSP applicants must adhere exactly to PGE’s CSP interconnection requirements. Each CSP applicant must also execute a Community Solar Program Purchase Agreement with PGE. Â
Small Generator Interconnection (10MW max)
Under the small generator interconnection rules, customers can install distributed energy resources (DERs) up to 10 MW of capacity. Requests can be submitted online using PowerClerk.
The facility and related equipment must meet standards as designated by the state of Oregon, PGE and local electrical and building codes.
If the system generates more than 30 amps, it must have a lockable isolation device readily accessible to PGE at all times.
You must demonstrate proof of site control (property tax bill, deed, lease agreement or other legally binding contract) for the location of the facility.
You must carry general liability insurance for a facility with a nameplate capacity of more than 200 kilowatts. Limits and conditions are subject to PGE approval.
For multiple generators, the total nameplate capacity at a point of interconnection must be 10 MW or less.
Learn more about Schedule 201: Qualifying Facility 10 MW or Less Avoided Cost Power Purchase Information. You can also download Schedule 201 contracts from our Resource Library.
Large Generator, Non-FERC Jurisdictional Interconnection
If your Qualifying Facility has a nameplate capacity greater than 10 MW and you’d like to sell power, PGE may buy the power under a negotiated power purchase agreement (PPA).
This negotiated PPA with PGE will cover all aspects of the sale, delivery and purchase of power and the rights and responsibilities of both parties. For more information call 503-464-8000 and ask for the power production coordinator. Additionally, for information about large generator projects and to go through the contracting process, please email qualifying.facility@pgn.com. To administer or manage Qualifying Facility contracts after they have been executed, please email pge.qfadmin@pgn.com.
Interconnection of a Qualifying Facility (QF) of 20 MW capacity or more shall be governed by the terms, conditions and provisions of the Commission-approved QF interconnection procedures and the Commission-approved QF interconnection agreement.
Learn more about Schedule 202: Qualifying Facility Greater than 10 MW Avoided Cost Power Purchase Information.Â
If you wish to use a particular point of delivery on our PGE System, you should inform us as soon as possible. We will need to perform a study to determine whether the delivery to the interconnection point is feasible. PGE’s System currently has limited or no Available Transmission Capability on certain transmission paths. The following points are not acceptable points of delivery for Qualifying Facility contracts:
PACW
Roundbutte
The types of DERs eligible to interconnect to the PGE system are solely based on Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) rules, State of Oregon Public Utility Commission (OPUC) rules, and PGE tariffs.
Inverter-based facilities
Inverter-based facilities include any direct current (DC) power supply facility that requires alternating current (AC) conversion. These include solar photovoltaic (PV) or energy storage facilities.
Machine-based facilities
Machine-based facilities are used to convert mechanical energy into electrical power. These sources include, but are not limited to, synchronous generators and induction generators.
Synchronous generators can be used to produce electrical energy and provide frequency response. These generators require a DC power source for startup.
Induction (asynchronous) generators produce electrical energy when rotor rotation exceeds synchronous speed.Â
Avoid unexpected costs – confirm your location FIRST
If you are in one of the shaded areas, you may be on a limited feeder. To help avoid delays or costly design changes, don’t begin construction until we have approved your application. We carefully review all applications to determine if they can be safely and reliably interconnected to the grid without project modifications. Contact us for more information before submitting a Net Metering application.
For additional resources check out the below links:
Helpful links
