Distributed Energy Resource (DER) application process changes
By Loren Howard
Applications for distributed energy resource (DER) projects continue to increase. Almost daily, REC receives a new application for a DER or as it is more commonly known – a net meter project. Here in the San Luis Valley, most net meter projects are using solar to provide the energy. With this increase in applications, the impact on REC’s electric distribution system and new state requirements likely in the near future, REC is changing the application process for DER applications. The implementation of this new process will not start until July, 2022 to allow time for thorough communication with all members and the known DER installers servicing the San Luis Valley.
While the final application process has not been finalized, starting to introduce a brief outline of the future application process will help REC members plan for their future projects. This new process for residential applications should normally take less than eight working days to complete. Commercial DER applications will be subject to a more complete engineering analysis and should be able to be completed within four weeks.
The first step in the new process will be an “Inquiry” by the member. This inquiry will consist of a brief form describing the desired project – member name, location, size, timeline, etc. This first step must be completed to ensure, at an early stage, that the proposed project meets REC rules and regulations.
Once REC reviews the inquiry and ensures the project is within REC rules and regulations, a DER application will be prepared by REC and returned to the member for an electronic signature. Electronic signatures will be the only method of filing a DER application.
Once the DER application and application fee are received by REC, a final review of the project will be completed and the member will receive a letter approving the project or a letter indicating the project is not approved and what must be changed to receive approval.
Once the member’s DER project is complete and 1) a state electrical inspection report is received by REC and 2) the required metering fee is received, REC will schedule a final inspection by REC’s metering personnel. Once this final REC inspection is complete and accepted, a letter authorizing operation of the DER facility will be sent to the REC member.
As the DER application process continues to be finalized, information will be sent to all members with more detailed information available to REC members contemplating a DER project.