DTE Adopts Revised DG Interconnection Model Tariff

MASSACHUSETTS -

The Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications and Energy (DTE) has issued an order adopting a revised model tariff for the interconnection of distributed generation (DG). The original model tariff, developed by the Massachusetts Distributed Generation Collaborative (DG Collaborative), was approved by the DTE in February 2004. The revised model is based on subsequent recommendations by the DG Collaborative related to the interconnection process, meter ownership, network interconnection and the role of DG in distribution planning, and on public comment submitted on these findings.

The revised model interconnection tariff incorporates changes that address:
 


     
  • notification of ISO New England of potential DG projects;
     
  • approval of the wiring authority having jurisdiction for all applications;
     
  • outdated references to IEEE P1547;
     
  • redundant references to IEEE Standard 519 and IEEE Standard 1547-2003;
     
  • specific version of UL 1741 to be replaced by generic standard; and
     
  • clarification of application instructions.
     

The DTE chose not to adopt proposed language to amend the existing indemnification clause, citing a lack of consensus among stakeholders. In addition, the DTE accepted the determination by the DG Collaborative that ownership of a single billing meter for a system is not a barrier to DG, and noted that this issue will no longer be addressed in the proceeding (D.T.E. 02-38-C).

With respect to network interconnection, the DTE accepted a recommendation by the DG Collaborative to monitor and analyze DG interconnection projects on network systems, participate in IEEE discussions on network interconnection, and monitor the development of network interconnection standards in other jurisdictions. The DTE also expressed support for the DG Collaborative's plan to construct a cost-benefit model for DG, to determine the role of DG in utility planning.

The order adopting the proposed changes to the model tariff for the interconnection of DG was issued December 27, 2005. Utilities are required to submit individual interconnection standards tariffs consistent with the order by January 10, 2006.