Descripción

In September 2010, the City of Brenham passed an ordinance adopting net metering and interconnection procedures. Customer generators up to 10 megawatts (MW) are eligible to participate, although customer generators with systems 20 kilowatts (kW) or less are eligible for a separate rider and expedited interconnection. The utility will install and maintain a meter capable of measuring flow of electricity in both directions. Any net excess generation (NEG) is credited on a monthly basis at the utility’s avoided cost rate.

The ordinance includes a standard form interconnection application and agreement as well as standard riders. Customers must provide all equipment necessary to meet applicable safety, power quality and interconnection requirements established by the National Electric Code (NEC), the National Electrical Safety Code, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), Underwriters Laboratories (UL), and any applicable local and state agencies.

Net-metered customers with systems greater than 20 kW must maintain general liability insurance for personal injury and property damage of at least $500,000 per occurrence and $1,000,000 aggregate; systems 20 kW or less are exempt from the insurance requirements as long as the system’s inverter is UL 1741 listed and meets IEEE 1547 requirements. A disconnect switch that is easily visible and accessible to City of Brenham employees is required for all systems. The customer generator is responsible for paying related interconnection costs (including interconnection studies, if required) and must pass a field inspection prior to generating.