Eligibility and guidelines
Eligible systems include solar PV, wind generators, fuel cells, small-scale hydro, and biomass. Net metered systems may be less than 1 kilowatt to 100 kilowatts. Eligible customers must receive electricity service from PSE.
Detailed generation requirements are listed in PSE's net metering tariff, schedule 150 (PDF, 43 KB). These include safety disconnection requirements for given system capacities, harmonic distortion, and voltage variance. In addition, familiarization with PSE Meter installation standards (PDF 586, KB) is helpful.
Although it is tempting to install a renewable energy system yourself, there are significant potential electrical hazards associated with household electric circuits. Additionally, there is a significant amount of documentation and processes that only an experienced technician should attempt.
Enrolling in PSE's net metering program
- Obtain and complete the interconnection/schedule 150 agreement and mail the package to PSE. In order to be eligible for PSE's Renewable Energy Advantage Program (REAP), it is necessary to be under an interconnection agreement or be a PSE electric customer.
- Obtain all the necessary building permits from your municipal building department.
- Complete the installation of your solar, wind or digester system.
- Obtain final inspection and approval from the municipality prior to PSE installing the net and production meters. It is also recommended that the system is de-energized until PSE installs the net meter to avoid billing discrepancies.
- PSE will dispatch technicians to inspect the system and ensure it is safe for you, your neighbors and PSE electricians.
- PSE will install a new net meter and/or a production meter and mail the signed agreements to you. The one-time interconnection and REAP production meter installation fees will appear on your next PSE invoice.
Net netering enrollment documents
Here are the documents required needed to enroll in PSE's Net Metering program:
It's a good idea to review the Washington State net metering and interconnection law for current code and requirement guidelines.
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