Distributed Generation and Interconnection in Massachusetts

In the Green Communities Act of 2008, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts set a goal to have clean energy generation serve 20% of customer load by 2020. Much of that power will come from on-site, distributed generation (DG), such as combined heat and power and renewable sources like solar photovoltaics (PV) and wind. This website provides information and resources regarding three key issues affecting DG: interconnection, net metering, and grid modernization.

Interconnection

Interconnection is the process of connecting a distributed generation system to the electric grid. Prior to interconnecting, distributed generation system owners seeking to operate their systems in parallel with grid power must have a signed interconnection authorization from the local utility. The interconnection process was adopted by Order of the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) through its regulation of the utilities and their complying tariffs. See DOER's new interactive charts on electric utility reporting.

Net Metering

While distributed generation systems provide power to their host customers first, they often export power to the electric grid as well.  Net metering is a mechanism that allows distributed generation system owners to be compensated for that exported power. Net metering in its current form is the result of Legislation and was implemented under the authority of the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) through regulations and complying utility tariffs. 
   Grid Modernization

Grid Modernization is currently being investigated under the authority of the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) through a recent Notice of Investigation.  One primary objective of the investigation is to find ways in which a modern grid can further integrate distributed energy resources. DOER plans to actively engage with Grid Mod stakeholders in future stages of this proceeding.

 
Net Metering Updates

The Net Metering System of Assurance is open for applications at www.massaca.org

 

Interconnection Updates

* Interactive Charts Tracking Interconnection Projects

* Integrating DG Through Grid Modernization

* DOER's Rural Electrification Study (April 2013)

Workshops: Learn more >>

 

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This material is based upon work conducted through a MA-DOER contract supported by the U.S. Department of Energy under Award Number DE-EE0005692.

This report was prepared as an account of work sponsored by an agency of the United States Government. Neither the United States Government nor any agency thereof, nor any of their employees, makes any warranty, express or implied, or assumes any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information, apparatus, product, or process disclosed, or represents that its use would not infringe privately owned rights. Reference herein to any specific commercial product, process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States Government or any agency thereof. The views and opinions of authors expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of the United States Government or any agency thereof.