Grid Interconnection Information
Before planning any type of system, you will need to decide between a stand alone or grid interconnected system.
Stand Alone System without Grid Interconnection
A stand alone system is where the producer/member dedicates a portion or all of their electrical system to only be operated using the alternative energy production system. This portion of the electrical service would not be interconnected in any way with Linn County REC for continuous electric feed. These types of systems would require some type of battery backup system to maintain electrical power during times of low or non-production. Because Linn County REC is not interconnected to this system we would not have criteria for this stand-alone system. This does not in any way exempt the member from following the national and local electrical codes in their installation.
Grid Interconnected System
A grid interconnected system is where the producer/member would like to operate their alternative energy system on the Linn County REC electrical grid with a continuous feed from Linn County REC for times of low production, over production or non production. This type of system provides the member the benefits of production, with the security of continuous electrical supply.
Under this type of system the member must agree to meet all of the criteria laid out in the Alternative Energy Production Tariff. The cooperatives Alternative Energy Production Tariff has been in place since 1986 and has passed Iowa Utilities board review several times. Linn County REC offers continuous power interconnection and to purchase excess production at our avoided kWh charge from its power supplier. All tariff requirements must be met before interconnection and must continue to meet as long as the interconnection is in place. This interconnection criteria does not in any way exempt the member-consumer from following the national and local electrical codes in their installation. Safety for Linn County REC employees, other members and you, the producer, is a top priority for the electrical system.
Metering of a grid-interconnected system is done using either two-detented meter system (subtractive metering) or a one-meter system. The type of metering is determined and furnished by Linn County REC for installations that meet tariff qualifications.
Linn County REC has specific interconnect requirements that must be met prior to the generator being operated in parallel, and inspection by local authority having jurisdiction if applicable.
For more information, please contact your Energy Advisors.
Linn County Rural Electric Cooperative | PO Box 69 | 5695 REC Drive | Marion, IA 52302-0069 | 319.377.1587 or 800.332.5420
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