NJ Net Metering Proposed Revisions

August 27, 2004 by
Filed under: Solar Energy 

The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities is proposing changes to the net metering rules.

There are no summaries available. I’ve read them, and I think they are designed to do a few things:
1. Further simplify the interconnection of small (<10Kw) systems, and speed up the process.
2. Simplify the interconnection of medium (10KW to 2MW) systems.
3. Provide for the use of “packages” of interconnection equipment, which are certified.

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Point 2 is for medium-sized systems. I have heard of terrible troubles faced by businesses and especially by schools who generate over 10KW – they are faced with expensive design reviews and months in addition to the time required for smaller systems. This new level of net metering approval allows them to get going faster as well.

Point 3 may be where the interesting stuff is hidden. This provides for “packages” of interconnection hardware. This is where the do-it-yourself’er comes in; soon you will be able to buy “Solar Power Kits” at your local Home Depot or Lowe’s store to install. The rule changes say that as long as the package is approved by a national lab (UL), no additional inspection can be required by the utility. I believe that hidden behind this is the removal of the requirement for an external disconnect switch, since most (if not all) small inverters already disconnect themselves when utility power is lost. IEEE 1547 recognizes that and allows “non-islanding inverters” without disconnect switches. Additionally, as long as the local electrical inspector has approved your installation, you are clear to operate unless the utility requires their own inspection.

All of these proposed (they are still pending) changes are good, and should help alleviate the bureaucracy required to install such a system somewhat. We are getting closer to the day where you can buy the equipment, take it home, and get it up and running – just like you can build your own deck or install your own bathtub.

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