Net Metering

Parallel Generation - Connecting To The Grid

Find out how to connect your photovoltaic system or other generator system to the Poudre Valley REA electric grid. These systems are known as "parallel generation" because they generate power on the customer side of the meter and are interconnected to the electric grid.

For Homes

Step-by-step procedure for residential customers
Applications for parallel generation
- under 10 kW
- other generators

For Businesses

Step-by-step procedure for commercial customers
Application for parallel generation

General Requirements

Systems must meet the Poudre Valley REA Interconnection Standards; and
Projects must be approved by Poudre Valley REA before they are connected to the electric grid.

For more information or help with the forms, contact the Poudre Valley REA engineering staff at (970) 226-1234.

Resources Links

Residential Parallel Generation Procedures

Find out what you need to do to connect a photovoltaic (PV) or other generating system at your home to the Poudre Valley REA electric grid.

Step 1: Getting Started

Before you purchase any equipment:

Review the application to see if your planned system meets the Interconnection Standards;
Check with your home owner's association;
Check with the building and zoning departments in the county in which you live to request a building permit and/or an electrical permit for an electrical addition; and
Call the Poudre Valley REA electrical engineering staff at (970) 226-1234 to discuss you plans.

Step 2: Submit Parallel Generation Application

Download Application (pdf)

Submit the appropriate application before you purchase any equipment:

for residential PV under 10 kW
for residential PV over 10 kW
for other residential generators

Contact your contractor and/or equipment manufacturer for assistance obtaining the information required in the application.

Step 3: Purchase Equipment and Install System

Once application has been approved:

Purchase equipment; and
Install and test system

Step 4: Request Inspection(s) from the County and Poudre Valley REA

Request building and electrical inspections in the county in which you reside;
Request inspection of PV system or other generator system from the
Poudre Valley REA engineering department at (970) 226-1234;
If the system fails inspection(s), complete any required change and request re-inspection;
Operate the system.

Questions?

For more information or help with the forms, contact the Poudre Valley REA engineering staff at (970) 226-1234.

Poudre Valley REA • PO Box 272550, 7649 REA Parkway, Fort Collins, CO 80527-2550 - Map
Phone: 970.226.1234 • FAX: 970.226.2123 • Email: pvrea@pvrea.com