Distributed generation (DG) is generation that is defined as small generation units distributed around an electric utility's distribution system.  DG systems are 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 and owned by the customer, which may be operated in parallel with the utility.  Operating requirements vary depending upon size of unit: (under 50 KW or 50 KW - 10,000 KW) and are required to be 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.).

How Does a Member Apply to Install and Operate DG on the United System?

If you would like to install and operate DG on the United system, we recommend you review the following:

• Review the costs of the DG equipment including initial costs and annual operation and maintenance costs including cost of insurance.  Most installations, considering all the costs, will not be competitive with United rates.  Some cost information is listed further down this page broken down by technologies.

• Do research on the technologies available and then locate local reputable vendors that sell, install and maintain the DG you choose.  Make sure, prior to any purchase, that you have applied with United to interconnect and that you have met all requirements.

• Review United's tariff concerning DG and related monthly charges

• You can start the process by submitting the appropriate application (and required fee if necessary) as well as ensuring the technology you choose meets all of the requirements listed in the Distributed Generation Procedures and Guidelines Manual for Members and A Quick Overview of Technical Requirements of DG Installations, both downloadable below.  You will have to get the vendor involved in submitting the application to ensure the technology meets all of the United requirements.

• Upon receipt of the application (and fee if required) and other required documentation, United will review for approval.  If application is denied, United will provide information as to the requirements for approval.  Along with the approval, United will provide a cost of interconnection for further studies, if necessary, and for physical interconnection.

• Once approval is obtained by United the appropriate Interconnection Agreement shall be executed and any integration costs due to United shall be paid prior to implementation.

• Prior to physical interconnection of DG, a United representative will inspect for proper operation and installation.

Distributed Generation Interconnection and Parallel Operation Requirements Contact:

Jameson Parker
United Cooperative Services
3309 N. Main
P.O. Box 16
Cleburne, TX 76033
817) 556-4000

More information may be found through the Internet and also through the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) web site, listed below:

The Public Utility Commission of Texas

While the PUCT rules are intended only for Investor-Owned utilities, United's Tariff and DG Guidelines follow very closely with the related Substantive Rules.  However, there are a few minor differences.  Therefore, all proposed DG installations will be measured against the United Tariff and DG Guidelines.

What Does DG Cost ? 

Wind Power – 10 kW System:

Approximate cost (installed) – $28,000 to $40,000.  Actual cost depends on “tower height & style, distance to interconnect, difficulty of excavation, etc.” 

CLICK HERE TO SEE TEXAS WIND RESOURCE MAP

Solar Power – System large enough to replace most of the load in a residence or small business: 

Approximate cost (installed) – $8 per peak watt.  A 2 KW system would cost approximately $16,000.  Thus, the cost generate electricity through solar power is approximately 2 to 3.7 times more than the current rate charged by the average electric utility.

Propane or Natural Gas Generator – 12 KW Small power system:

Approximate cost (system w/transfer switch) – $3529 MSRP.  Generac is selling its Guardian system at Home Depot.  They are marketed as emergency power systems for power outages.  The main marketing push is for backup, not as an alternative power source.

Vendor Information

Viewing of United DG documentation, requires that Adobe Acrobat be installed on your system. To get your free copy of Adobe Acrobat Reader, click the link below.

United Distributed Generation Guidelines

Distributed Generation Procedures and Guidelines Manual for Members

Technical Overview

A Quick Overview of Technical Requirements of DG Installations

The Interconnection Agreement 

(Must be signed by both the member and United prior to interconnection of DG - See document below.)

50 KW and Less:  Short Form

50KW to 10 MW: Long Form

Attachment to Long Form

Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be fully inclusive of all current, future or pending rules and regulations but is meant to provide general information pertaining to this subject.

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