Study Interconnection Process

Before You Begin

Before starting the process, make sure you are using the correct Interconnection Application using the first two tables in the "How To Get Started" section of the Interconnecting Distributed Energy Resources (DER) page.

The Interconnection Customer may designate an Application Agent to serve as a single point of contact to coordinate with the DER Interconnection Coordinator on their behalf. Designation of an Application Agent does not absolve the Interconnection Customer from signing application documents and the responsibilities outlined in the Interconnection Process or in the interconnection agreements. DER vendors/contractors, project managers or electricians are common entities that the Interconnection Customer may designate to perform this role. 

Standard Interconnection Application

Instructions and Submission Forms

After it has been determined to go with the Study Process, and to use the Standard Interconnection Application,  complete the following steps to continue your solar panel installation request. 

1. Complete the Standard Interconnection Application (PDF).
2.  Create a One-line Diagram (PDF).  This is a  diagram of the proposed Distributed Energy Resource (DER) system showing the point of common coupling, PCC, to the Area EPS Operator’s Distribution System. See the Information Required on the One-line Diagram (PDF) . 
3. Obtain Manufacturer's Specs/Specification sheets. 
4. Create a Site Layout of the proposed DER system. 
5. Obtain a copy of current Homeowner's Insurance, scan and save a digital copy. (follow Insurance Requirements (PDF).
6. Obtain a copy of the Electrical Permit from the proper jurisdiction. 
7. Obtain a copy of the Building Permit from the proper jurisdiction. 
8. Scan or save all files from steps five (5) through seven (7) electronically, then submit using the Standard Interconnection Application Submission Form. Applications submitted via email will not be accepted.

After information from steps 1 through 8 are received, AMU will give you further direction in connection with which contract(s) will be required with AMU and/or Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (MMPA), along with current interconnection costs and fees.  Study Process may require a Power Purchase Agreement with MMPA. Preview the MMPA Distributed Generation Tariff (PDF) to preview the contract and terms with MMPA.

PLEASE NOTE:

• Meter seals are NOT to be cut by contractors or by homeowner(s) and MUST be scheduled through our DER Coordinators. Use our Disconnection of Power Scheduling Form to schedule during AMU business hours. 
• If you wish to have a production meter installed, even if the utility does not require one, we can provide one for a fee. Please let our Master Electrician know in advance as this will need to be shown on the one-line diagram. Request a current price for the meter(s) using our Meter Cost-Estimate Request Form. Please note that there is a $6 monthly fee for the Production Meter.
• Our DER System Limitation Device Agreement (PDF) is for systems that include devices that can produce more than the max kW stated in each individual contract, but have limiter devices installed to limit the max kW AC production. All Simplified Interconnection applications have a maximum of 20kW.  Any additional kW generation violates our contract and puts interconnection customer into default. This agreement is required for any limiter device installed on the interconnection system and should be submitted during step 10 of the application process. Read more in the Policy for Limited Capacity (PDF) and the Policy for Default of Interconnection Contract (PDF).

• Steps Upon Completion

  After installation is complete, follow these steps before commissioning.

  1.  Complete the Certificate of Completion (PDF). This must be signed by the Electrical Inspector. 
  2. Submit the completed Certificate of Completion using the Certificate of Completion Submission Form.
  3. Schedule the Anti-islanding Test appointment required to commission the interconnection using our Anti-islanding Scheduling Form.

• Additional Questions

  Additional information can be found on our Distributed Generation Policy (PDF). Check out our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)  page or email DER Coordinators for further questions.