Generator interconnection
Overview
Anyone planning to interconnect a generator to Otter Tail Power Company's electric system is required to follow specific processes and procedures. These processes and procedures vary with the size of the project and the voltage that you intend to interconnect. This flow chart (pdf) should help to determine the process that best fits your generator interconnection project. Throughout the interconnection process, an Otter Tail Power Company representative will work with you to ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible.
Which process should you follow?
The following descriptions will help you determine which process best suits your project. Because no two projects are identical, there may be slight variations to the processes and procedures identified below. Please note that additional variations might apply based on how the output will be used (i.e., self-supply, sale to Otter Tail Power Company, or sale to other).
Interconnection processes:
1. If you interconnect to Otter Tail Power Company's high-voltage transmission system (100 kv and above) you must submit a request to the Midwest Independent Transmission System Operator, Inc. (Midwest ISO or MISO) and must follow the Midwest ISO's generator interconnection procedures.
2. If you interconnect to Otter Tail Power Company's subtransmission system (41.6 kv– 100 kv), and you intend to sell the output, you must submit a request to the Midwest ISO and must follow the Midwest ISO's generator interconnection procedures.
3. If you interconnect to Otter Tail Power Company's distribution system (less than 41.6 kv), and the project is greater than 10 MW, you must submit a request to Otter Tail Power Company and must follow Otter Tail Power Company's interconnection procedures. If, via the power flow studies, the project is identified as impacting the transmission system, Otter Tail Power Company will notify you. You then will be required to submit a request to the Midwest ISO and must follow the Midwest ISO's generator interconnection procedures.
4. If you interconnect to Otter Tail Power Company's distribution system (less than 41.6 kv), and the project is 10 MW or less and meets the State of Minnesota special fuel requirements, you must follow the processes and procedures for interconnection for distribution generators. Please note, however, that if the project's nameplate capacity is greater than the minimum expected load on the distribution substation you should comply with Process 3, above.
5. If you interconnect at less than 100 kv and for self-supply with no intents for resale, you may initiate your request with Otter Tail Power Company.
In addition to the procedures noted above, an interconnection customer will be required to abide by Otter Tail Power Company's technical guidelines provided in the technical handbook. The technical handbook outlines the technical requirements when interconnecting a generator, tie-line, or substation to Otter Tail Power Company's electric system.
Questions? Email the generation interconnection coordinator at Otter Tail Power Company.
