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MEMBER-OWNED RENEWABLE GENERATION

The information listed on this page is provided to help members learn more about wind and solar energy and guide them in interconnecting to the Cooperative's system.  There are many factors to consider when installing a distributed energy resource (DER) and we encourage members to contact us when weighing options to help them make an informed choice.

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Cogeneration and Small Power Production

In compliance with Beltrami Electric Cooperative's adopted rules relating to cogeneration and small power production, Beltrami Electric Cooperative is obligated to interconnect with and purchase electricity from cogenerators and small power producers whom satisfy the conditions as a qualifying facility.  Beltrami Electric Cooperative is obligated to provide information free of charge to all interested members upon request regarding rate and interconnection requirements.  All interconnections require an application and approval to become a qualifying facility.  Any dispute over interconnections, sales, and purchases are subject to resolution by the Beltrami Electric Cooperative Board. 

Understand that there are rules concerning proper equipment, safety, liability and energy reimbursement. Please contact us before you start your project, so that we may assist you with the process.

All communications regarding this process should be directed to Sam Mason, Director of Member & Energy Services. Interested members should contact the Cooperative by emailing smason@beltramielectric.com, calling (218) 444-3623 or by visiting the Cooperative office at 4111 Technology Dr NW, Bemidji, MN 56601.

 

Regardless of the size or type of system, there are guidelines and documents that are applicable to everyone.  The links in this area are a starting point to understand the interconnection process.

BEC's Distributed Generation Net Metering Policy

 

The Beltrami Electric Cooperative Board of Directors adopted a new interconnection process, Cooperative Distribution Energy Resource Interconnection Process (C-MIP) beginning April 1, 2019.  This policy is comparable to the Public Utilities Commission Interconnection Process, the State of Minnesota Distributed Energy Resource Interconnection Process (MN-DIP).

 

Determine which process to follow based on the size and type of distributed energy resource you are installing.

For most small inverter-based systems with the capacity of 20 kW or less, the Simplified Process would apply. The Simplified Process has a non-refundable $100 application fee and a commissioning fee.

Systems greater than 20 kW include the Fast Track Process or the Study Process have a base fee, plus a per kW amount. Systems requiring engineering studies or changes to the Cooperative's distribution system may have other fees, including a commissioning fee.

Beltrami Electric's engineering department will review and evaluate the collected information to determine that utility safety and operation standards are met. Any interconnection issues that engineering determines are present must then be address.

After the application is approved, the Uniform Contract for Co-generation and Small Power Production Facilities must be completed and signed.  Proof of Liability Insurance must be provided and kept up-to-date.  The installation must be commissioned and safety inspections completed by the Cooperative and the State Electrical Inspector.

 

Fast Track eligibility is determined based upon the generator type, the size of the generator, voltage of the line, and the location of and the type of line at the Point of Common Coupling (PCC).

Fast Track Process

Interconnection Application

Uniform Contract for Co-generation and Small Power Production Facilities (systems less than 40kW)

Certificate of Completion

Storage Application

Insurance Agreement

 

An application to interconnect a Distributed Energy Resource (DER) that does not meet the Simplified or the Fast Track Process eligibility requirements or does not pass the review as described in either process, shall be evaluated under the Study Process.

Study Process

Standard Interconnection Application

Sample-Uniform Contract for Co-generation and Small Power Production Facilities

Certificate of Completion

Insurance Agreement

Storage Application

Beltrami Electric Cooperative's Cogeneration and Small Power Production Tariff Filing - Average Retail Rate Calculations

Residential

Small Commercial

Large Commercial

As your Touchstone Energy Cooperative, we want to be your source for energy and information.  Since solar power generation is rapidly becoming more widely available, we put together this information to help answer questions you may have.  Contact our Energy Services Department at (218) 444-2540 or (800) 955-6083 for more information.

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