Minnesota’s Net Metering Policy
Minnesota is one of many states that encourage small renewable energy systems to be installed at residences and businesses. According to Minnesota Statute 216B.164, all utilities shall buy back any excess energy that reaches the distribution grid produced by a qualifying facility having less than 40 kW capacity at the average retail energy rate for the applicable rate schedule. This means for any wind or solar system with a total capacity size of less than 40 kW and installed at an existing Renville-Sibley Cooperative Power (RSCPA) service location, RSCPA will buy the excess energy produced by the renewable system at an average retail energy rate.
For renewable systems at a capacity of 40 kW or larger, RSCPA will still buy back the excess power produced by the renewable system that reaches the grid. However, the amount that the power is bought back is at avoided cost.
Member-owned renewable generation: Distributed Energy Resources (DER)
Renville-Sibley Cooperative Power Association (RSCPA) will help you interconnect your own electric generation equipment with our system. RSCPA follows the Cooperative Minnesota Distributed Energy Resources Interconnection Process (Interconnection Process or C-MIP). This process is utilized for all applications for interconnection of member owned renewable Distributed Energy Resources (DER) as of June 1, 2019. As of June 1, 2019, all the related documentation, process information, rate tariff and application materials are included in the links listed below. There is also a link to a designated web portal where the DER interconnection applications will be submitted. RSCPA will only accept DER interconnection applications through the web portal.
Your safety and the safety of our employees is of the utmost importance. Therefore, all interconnection applications are contingent on the equipment and installation obtaining certification from a State of Minnesota licensed State Electrical Inspector. Advance planning is required for a DER interconnection and it is highly recommended that you contact us at the beginning of your planning process so we can provide assistance to you.
If you have questions regarding the C-MIP, would like additional information or would like to schedule a meeting with your installer and our cooperative, please contact DeeAnne Norris, CEO at dnorris@rscpa.coop or 320-826-2593.
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