What is Distributed Generation?
Distributed generation (DG) is generation that is "distributed around" the electric utility's distribution system. DG on the Oncor system is usually powered by solar, wind, landfill gas, diesel fueled engines, natural gas fueled micro-turbines, etc. DG refers to an electrical generating facility located on Customer's premise, which may be operated in parallel with the utility, of ten megawatts (10 MW) or less and connected at a voltage less than or equal to 60 kilovolts (kV).
Customers inquiring about distributed generation generally fall into four basic categories:
- Small power production facilities (solar, wind, waste or geothermal) which are usually classified as "qualifying facilities",
- Backup power which can be synchronized with the utility upon restoration from utility outages (closed transition),
- Generation for self-service of customer's own load through parallel operation with the utility and peak shaving of demand,
- Generation that is for exporting (landfill gas, large wind farms, etc.).
This is by far not the complete scope of distributed generation but it does give you some idea of the subject. More information may be found through the Internet and also through the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT).
The PUCT has created state regulations concerning distributed generation that can be accessed through their web site. In particular two substantive rules apply to DG. They are:
- Substantive Rule §25.211 Interconnection of On-Site Distributed Generation (DG),
- Substantive Rule §25.212 Technical Requirements for Interconnection Of On-site Distributed Generation (DG).
The URL for these rules is:
http://www.puc.state.tx.us/rules/subrules/electric/index.cfm.
See also: Interconnection and Parallel Operation Requirements of Oncor DG