Some MVEC members are exploring renewable energy options to save money and support a cleaner environment. If you’re planning to install electric generation equipment, such as solar or wind, MVEC is here to guide you through the interconnection process.
We use the Nova Power Portal to help you:
- Learn more about installing your own renewable energy system
- Access interconnection requirements
- Start and track your application
Do your homework before you install
- Talk to others with similar systems
- Research economic benefits, legal considerations, zoning rules, maintenance, and operating costs
- Get references before choosing a vendor
- Hire a licensed electrician for installation
- Submit your application to MVEC before connecting to our system
Important Reminder:
MVEC does not endorse or partner with door-to-door solar or wind sales companies. There is no one-size-fits-all solution. Please contact us directly with your questions.
Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs)
With renewable energy certificates, or RECs, electricity is not produced locally; renewable energy development is promoted indirectly.
The average household uses 1,000 kilowatt-hours a month. By participating in a REC program, that electric usage would be completely offset by renewable energy with the purchase of:
- Wind RECs – $.50 per 100 kWh block
- Combined* Renewable RECs – $.10 per 100 kWh block
* includes a variety of renewable forms, depending on market availability
You may purchase as many blocks of RECs as you would like, up to your average annual electric usage. Because you are not under any contract, you may leave the program whenever you wish.
When you purchase RECs on an individual basis, the credit is yours and goes above and beyond what the cooperative is already purchasing on our members’ behalf. Only those who subscribe to a program pay for GreenSource. Costs are not passed down to non-subscribing members.
Learn About MVEC Policies Regarding Cogeneration:
Notice of Cogeneration
The Minnesota Valley Electric Cooperative Board of Directors adopted the Cooperative Minnesota Distributed Energy Resource Interconnection process, which was updated by the State of Minnesota Public Utilities Commission. Minnesota Statute 216B.1611 states cooperatives shall adopt an interconnection process that addresses the issues addressed in the Commission’s order. MVEC’s updated Cogeneration Policy reflects the adoption of the Cooperative Minnesota Distribution Energy Resources Interconnection Process (C-MIP). All new distributed energy resources will follow the C-MIP interconnection process as of June 1, 2019.
In compliance with MVEC-adopted rules relating to cogeneration and small power production, MVEC is obligated to interconnect with and purchase electricity from cogenerators and small power producers who satisfy the conditions as a qualifying facility. MVEC is obligated to provide information free of charge to all interested members upon request regarding rates and interconnection requirements. All interconnections require an application and approval to become a qualifying facility. Any dispute over interconnections, sales, and purchases is subject to resolution by MVEC. Members with questions can contact Minnesota Valley Electric Cooperative.