The Challenge
When we connect a distributed generation system, such as a roof-top solar system, to our electrical distribution system (our grid), it can pose challenges.
The main challenge we currently face occurs when the power generated by those distributed generation systems exceeds the local electricity demand, making it difficult to maintain the safety and reliability of the grid.
There are several areas of LPEA's grid where this distributed generation is close to meeting or exceeding the local demand for electricity.
The good news is that in these areas, LPEA members are providing the power needed for themselves and their neighbors, during the daytime. The unfortunate news is that this means there needs to be limitations on the interconnection of new solar systems in these areas.
What areas have limits on interconnections?
To see if you are in an affected area, consult the interactive map below. A description of what each color means is found in the table below. You can type your address into the search bar and note the status the pop-up displays for your area.
*We will be updating the map on a regular basis. However, please note that there is a time-lag between when a solar interconnection application is submitted and when we review it. It is possible that there could be multiple interconnection applications submitted for the same area at approximately the same time, which could result in a situation where the status shown on the map at the time an interconnection application is submitted will not correlate with the actual status when the LPEA engineering review is completed. In these instances, solar interconnection applications will be evaluated based on our most up-to-date data, regardless of what is or was displayed on the map when the interconnection application was submitted.
What do the different colors mean?
| Designation | Color on Map | Impact on Ability to Interconnect |
| Approaching Interconnection Capacity Limit (70%) | Yellow | None |
| Nearing Interconnection Capacity Limit (80%) | Orange | None |
| No Interconnection. At Capacity Limit (100%) | Red |
No exporting systems may be interconnected* |
*Sign up for our Solar Capacity Waitlist to be notified of available capacity
Non-Exporting Option
LPEA allows for the interconnection of non-exporting systems by members, including in areas that are otherwise closed to interconnection. Non-exporting systems require the use of an approved export-limiting technology. Typically, this is accomplished with inverter settings in a UL 1741 listed inverter or settings in a UL 3141 listed power control system.
Non-exporting solar PV systems are typically paired with batteries. Non-exporting systems with batteries can be used to meet most of a home’s daily needs, provide backup in case of outages, and reduce on-peak energy charges or peak demand charges. However, they are more expensive than stand-alone solar PV systems. We encourage you to discuss your options with your installer and reach out to us with any questions.
If, as described below, LPEA determines that additional distributed generation can be added, non-exporting systems may apply to be recharacterized as exporting systems. Capacity will first be offered based on the position on the Solar Capacity Waitlist, so members installing non-exporting systems are strongly encouraged to join the Solar Capacity Waitlist .
Be Notified When Capacity Becomes Available
If you are in a No Interconnection area and are interested in installing solar at your property but not a non-exporting system, we strongly recommend that you sign up for the Solar Capacity Waitlist. If LPEA can allow for the interconnection of more distributed generation, that capacity will be allocated and members will be notified based on their position on the Solar Capacity Waitlist.
To sign up for the Solar Capacity Waitlist first take note of the feeder listed in the pop-up window of the map when you click on your address. Then go to Solar Capacity Waitlist to learn more about how the waitlist works and sign up.
Looking Ahead
We are assessing how much additional distributed generation could be interconnected across the distribution grid as it exists. We are keeping safety and reliability as top priorities in our assessment.
We are also investigating what new infrastructure would be required to increase the capacity of areas of the grid that are not allowing exporting distributed generation systems. We will update these limits and communicate with all affected members on the Solar Capacity Waitlist when there are changes.