What are Interconnection Standards?
They are rules that establish uniform processes and technical requirements for utilities when connecting distributed generation (DG) to the grid.

What is clean DG?
DG is the generation of electricity near the end-user. It includes solar, wind, biomass, geothermal, and CHP (co-generation)

Benefits of increased clean DG

• Spurring economic development
• Reducing peak electrical demand on the grid
• Reducing fuel price volatility
• Reducing the environmental impact of power generation
• Potentially displacing expensive transmission and     infrastructure investments

Components of Interconnection Standards
Standardization of technical aspects


• Size and types of allowable generators

• Connection and operation procedures – affects grid stability and worker safety

Standardization of application process


• Don’t want to deter small-scale DG developers with complicated applications
• Standard documents and review processes

• Burden of proving a project unsafe rests with the utilities, in accordance with FERC recommendations

What about the Easy Connection Act?
Net Metering and Easy Connection Act from 2007 did not have the scope necessary to regulate interconnection in a way that encourages maximum efficiency. The potential for co-generation, large biomass generators, and solar can be expanded with these standardized rules that encourage development of clean sources of power.

What are the barriers to success?
Utilities may be concerned with grid stability. This can be solved with an open and effective stakeholder process where rules are made to ease these concerns.

Currently, there are no interconnection standards for non-utility generated electricity. This means generators of electricity, such as CHP or biomass, must negotiate with the utility, often in secret, if they want to put electricity onto the grid. The result is exorbitant standby rates and other fees that handicap these technologies and effectively prevent their deployment in Missouri. The legislation would provide simple, effective, and transparent interconnection standards capable of encouraging alternative generation.