Distributed Generation Rules/Rates

Rules/Rates

• Complete the application describing proposed co-generation equipment and submit to RRVCPA along with submittal fee listed on the application. You must also complete the contract and receive approval before starting.
• Any co-generation system must have a UL-Listed inverter with automatic shutdown or UL-listed automatic shutdown device for safety reasons when the system is connected to the grid. This means there will be no danger to line crews working on the line during a power outage because the co-generation equipment will automatically disconnect from the grid.
• A second disconnect is also required that must be accessible to RRVCPA line crews. This disconnect must be easily accessible, visibly marked, labeled as such and be code approved. This is the members’ responsibility to install.
• Per State statute, the member is responsible for interconnection costs. You will be asked to pay in advance. If the cost is less, you receive a refund. If the cost is more, you will be billed the additional cost. You will also be responsible for the cost of maintenance and inspections in the future.
• Prior to your system being commissioned, RRVCPA will test the automatic shutdown of your system to ensure safety. The installation has to be state inspected prior to commissioning and follow the National Electric Code.
• Per statute, the member is required to have the appropriate amount of liability insurance and provide proof.
  
• Any net excess energy your system produces at the end of each billing month put back on the distribution system will be credited at a calculated rate. The rate is adjusted annually.
  
• If Minnesota changes its laws governing the interconnection process, you may be required to change the system to match as well.
  
• If you have off-peak metering that is subtractive (kWh subtracted off the main meter), you will be required to change that metering to non-subtractive metering at your expense or retire the off-peak.
  
• Per Minnesota statute and its own policy, Red River Valley Co-op Power adopted a distributed grid access fee on November 23, 2020, effective January 1, 2021. In fact, policy adopted by the Board on 3/19/2018 as allowed under Minnesota statute 216B speaks to this right.