PV interconnection requirements may change with new reliability guidance
Interconnection requirements for mid-sized and large inverter-based systems directly connected to the transmission grid may change based on new guidance issued in draft form by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation. The guidance does not apply to distributed PV.
Massachusetts solar growth a boulder strewn climb
The Massachusetts SMART program is deploying 1.6 GW. The challenges of growth include long interconnection queues in some areas, incentives tapped out in others, equipment requirements increasing system costs, and utilities circling back after approvals to re-asses project interconnections.
Solar demand overwhelms Michigan utility – not “predictable”
Consumers Energy has asked Michigan regulators to suspend solar power interconnection applications as the increase in applications was “substantial, and too sudden, to allow to Company to respond” with appropriate resources.
California grid data is live – solar developers take note
California’s updated maps to the power grid – ICA 2.0 – went online as of December 28, offering insight at every point on the circuit which could affect how much solar can be attached.
Illinois electric utility publishes online map of potential solar capacity
ComEd, Illinois subsidiary of Exelon, posts a Hosting Capacity Map showing solar potential based on infrastructure capabilities on a local basis.
Permitting 2.0: A crucial step on the road to our clean energy future
In this op-ed Clean Coalition explains the need for a streamlined solar permitting process for commercial and industrial solar projects.
Illinois solar program continues to develop, solar job numbers begin to grow
The Illinois Power Agency has added more administrative components to its website, while job training continues and hiring picks up.
Maine proposes doubled interconnection fees for solar customers
The Pine Tree State’s Public Service Utilities Commission will hold a public hearing on December 12 to discuss the proposed changes to the fee schedule for Central Maine Power.
Conflicts continue over Duke’s interconnection rules
North Carolina regulators have offered the company relief on a complaint by seven solar developers, but have served complaints against the power company for three other projects.
North Carolina struggles with the purpose of PURPA
Critics accuse Duke Energy of putting unnecessary interconnection barriers to undermine the five-decade old law that has spurred solar growth in the state.
