Distributed Energy Resources
Back to HomeOne of the most significant changes to electricity systems has been the emergence of new technologies that can support locally-owned facilities for electricity generation, control and storage. These technologies, often referred to as Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), are transforming the way communities meet their energy needs.
Connection Process – Small, Medium and Large Embedded Generators (>10 KW)
Preliminary Consultation
During the initial planning phase of a project, you will want to know if there are any limitations that would prevent you from connecting your project. In order to identify these potential limitations, you will need to complete a Preliminary Consultation Information Request form (PCIR). Once received, we will review and respond with a Preliminary Consultation Report (PCR). While the PCR is not required in order to apply for a Connection Impact Assessment (CIA), you will be expected to submit a complete CIA application form, including connection information as would otherwise be provided in the PCR.
Connection Impact Assessment
The next step for the connection of your DER is the CIA. This is a study prepared by Welland Hydro-Electric System Corp. (WHESC) that assesses the steady state and transient reliability and stability impacts of your project on our distribution system. The information requirements at this stage are more substantial than the preliminary consultation phase, and it is important to be aware that completion of a CIA does not constitute approval of the protection philosophy and SLD by WHESC. The protection philosophy and SLD will be subject to further review after the CIA has been issued.
Depending on the size of the project , an additional CIA by Hydro One, and/or a System Impact Assessment by the IESO may also be necessary to assess upstream system impacts.
Project Development
At this stage in the process, you have received the results of your CIA. The project’s scope has been finalized. The technical requirements, along with the costs to connect your project to WHESC’s distribution system, have been identified. In order to proceed to the next step, a Connection Cost Agreement (CCA) must be signed and all costs/estimates required by the CCA must be paid.
Build and Energization
The final stage of the DER connection process. Facility is built. All approvals and inspections have been received/completed. Prior to energization, a Commissioning Verification Report and Connection Agreement must be completed and submitted to WHESC. After all final requirements have been received, WHESC will connect your DER to our distribution system.
Connection Process – Micro-Embedded Generators (less than or equal to 10 KW)
Preliminary Consultation
During the initial planning phase of a project, you will want to know if there are any limitations that would prevent you from connecting your project. In order to identify these potential limitations, you will need to complete a Preliminary Consultation Information Request form (PCIR).
Offer to Connect and Connection Agreement
We will review your PCIR and, once it is accepted, issue an Offer to Connect and a Connection Agreement, which outline the requirements and connection costs to connect the generator.
If you decide to proceed with the project, you will be required to pay the connection fees detailed in the Offer to Connect.
Build and Energization
The final stage of the DER connection process. Facility is built. All approvals and inspections have been received/completed. Prior to energization, a Commissioning Verification Report may be required and Connection Agreement must be completed and submitted to WHESC. After all final requirements have been received, WHESC will connect your DER to our distribution system.
Net Metering
Looking for ways to lower your monthly electricity costs? You may want to consider net metering. Any Welland Hydro customer who generates electricity from a renewable energy source for their own use may be eligible for net metering. In the event that you generate more electricity than what is used, net metering allows you to send the unused electricity generated to our distribution system for a credit towards your future electricity costs. Excess generation credits can be carried forward for a consecutive 12 month period.
For more information, please visit Ontario’s Net Metering program.
If you are ready to start the process of installing a net metering generation facility, please complete and submit a Preliminary Consultation Information Request form (PCIR) to us at der@wellandhydro.com.
microFIT
If you have an active contract with the IESO for a microFIT generation facility (10 kW or less) you will be charged the following to maintain your facility’s connection to the electricity grid.
These rates are effective as of May 1, 2017. They are based on a 30 day billing period.
Service Charges
Service Charge – up to April 30, 2017 – $5.40 /month
Service Charge – Effective May 1, 2017 – $11.00 /month