Toronto: Citing a volume of requests to connect micro-embedded generation projects “well beyond its expectations,” Hydro One Networks Inc. recently applied to the Ontario Energy Board for a six-month exemption from its current obligations to meet certain timelines for connecting micro-generation projects to Hydro One’s distribution system. Hydro One says it does not propose to suspend or slow down its work connecting the projects, but would use the six-month period to process the backlog of applications “using reasonable commercial efforts” and would follow the OEB’s stipulated timelines and conditions for connecting new load customers in the interim.
Hydro One has been experiencing unprecedented volumes of applications for micro generator connections, fuelled by high levels of interest in the OPA’s microFIT program, and volumes still continue to grow. As of July 20, approximately 16,500 applications had come to Hydro One. Currently, applications are arriving at a rate of approximately 500 per week. Given these growing numbers, Hydro One has had difficulty meeting its obligations as a distributor, as set by the Distribution System Code.
Hydro One also requested an immediate interim stay of obligations from the timelines for the connection of micro-embedded generation facilities as of the date the application was filed (April 18) and until the Board renders a final decision on the matter. An oral hearing was scheduled by the OEB for August 11 and 12.
The timelines Hydro One is currently required to meet (under Section 6.2.6 of the DSC), and for which it has applied for a six month exemption, require a distributor make an offer to connect or provide reasons for refusing connection of micro-embedded generation facilities within:
- 15 days if the applicant is located at an existing customer connection; or
- 60 days if the applicant is not located at an existing customer connection.
Section 6.2.7 of the Code describes how the distributor must connect a micro-embedded generator within five days of receiving all necessary approvals; a copy of Electrical Safety Association (ESA) authorization to connect; a signed Connection Agreement, and payment for the connection costs.
Micro-embedded generation facilities are defined as generation facilities with a name-plate rated capacity of 10 kW or less that are connected to the distribution system.
For more information, see the OEB website under proceeding EB-2011-0118.