Battery systems are increasingly being added to existing member-owned solar systems, and some members may also install battery-only systems. When these systems are capable of operating in parallel with the electric grid, they create interconnection and safety considerations that require Cooperative review.

A typical standby home generator disconnects from the grid before operating. A battery system that can operate in parallel with the grid is different and is more comparable to a solar installation from an interconnection standpoint.

What To Know

• A member who adds batteries to an existing solar or other Co-Generation system is required to submit an application for Co-Generation review and approval.
• A member who installs a battery-only system that will operate in parallel with the grid is also required to submit an application for Co-Generation review and approval.
• These systems are not allowed to operate in parallel with the grid until the Cooperative has reviewed the installation and approved it.
• Approved systems will generally fall under the Parallel Generation Rider. In many cases, that will likely mean a non-export arrangement, depending on the system design and Engineering review.
• The review process is intended to confirm that the installation meets all applicable interconnection, equipment, safety, inspection, and grid protection requirements.

Fees

In most cases, FreeState does not expect to require an application fee for these battery-related applications. However, the Cooperative should reserve the right to charge a fee when additional engineering review, site inspection, metering changes, or administrative processing are needed. 

Questions are ALWAYS free.  If you are considering any type of installation, just call 785.478.3444 and ask for Matt to find out what you would need to do before investing any money. 

The Fine Print

FreeState's existing interconnection documents already support this requirement. The Small Generating Facility Interconnection Terms and Conditions state that the Cooperative may disconnect for uninspected or unapproved equipment or modifications made after initial approval, and the Interconnection Procedures state that a member has no right to operate in parallel until interconnection is authorized in writing.

The current application and approval documents also support this requirement, because the member agrees to abide by the Terms and Conditions, and approval is contingent on those requirements being met. Together, these documents support the requirement that battery additions and battery systems operating in parallel with the grid require Cooperative review and approval.

Summary

Members adding batteries to existing solar systems, or installing battery-only systems that will operate in parallel with the grid, should submit a Co-Generation application for review and approval. Those systems will generally be handled under the Parallel Generation Rider, likely on a non-export basis in many cases, and must meet all applicable interconnection requirements. While a fee will usually not be charged, FreeState should retain the right to assess one when additional review or field work is required.