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.
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 info@beltramielectric.com, calling (218) 444-2540 or by visiting the Cooperative office at 4111 Technology Dr NW, Bemidji, MN 56601.
Notice of updated technical requirements for distributed energy resource (DER) systems
In compliance with Minnesota Statute 216B.1611, Beltrami Electric Cooperative is updated the technical requirements for distributed energy resource interconnections. The existing technical requirement document will be replaced with the Technical Interconnection and Interoperability Requirements (TIIR) and Technical Specification Manual (TSM). These requirements become effective July 1, 2020, and all new DER systems and DER system additions applied for interconnection after July 1 will be required to meet these updated requirements.
Technical Interconnection and Interoperability Requirements Technical Specification Manual DER Alteration Notification Form
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.
The Beltrami Electric Cooperative Board of Directors adopted a new interconnection process, Cooperative Distribution Energy Resource Interconnection Process (C-MIP). This policy is comparable to the Public Utilities Commission Interconnection Process, the State of Minnesota Distributed Energy Resource Interconnection Process (MN-DIP).
The Simplified Process is for most small inverter-based systems with the capacity of 20 kW or less.
Simplified Interconnection Application
Sample-Uniform Contract for Co-generation and Small Power Production Facilities
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).
Uniform Contract for Co-generation and Small Power Production Facilities (systems less than 40kW)
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.
Standard Interconnection Application
Sample-Uniform Contract for Co-generation and Small Power Production Facilities
Beltrami Electric Cooperative's Cogeneration and Small Power Production Tariff Filing - Average Retail Rate Calculations