Path-Q Solar
How can an interconnection study change the final size or cost of a solar project?
Answer
An interconnection study can require a smaller export level, different inverter or protection equipment, storage or controls, a service upgrade, or utility network work. These findings can reduce the feasible system size, add cost and delay, or make a proposed design uneconomic.
Key points
- Separate the project's desired generation size from the export capacity the utility will approve.
- Study costs and upgrade obligations may be assigned to the project under the applicable process.
- A redesign with lower export, managed output, or storage may avoid some upgrades but can reduce production value.
What it depends on
- Utility network capacity and protection requirements
- System size, inverter settings, and point of interconnection
- Existing site load and export profile
- Cost allocation and study procedures
Risks and trade-offs
- An early quote may exclude utility-required upgrades.
- Network upgrades can have uncertain scope, timing, and cost until the study is complete.
- Reducing system size may preserve schedule but reduce expected savings or revenue.
Information you may need
- Preliminary and final interconnection study results
- Utility cost estimate and upgrade responsibility
- Alternative designs with export controls or storage
- Updated production and financial model
Your next step
What to do next
Make the contract contingent on interconnection approval and require a written change-order process for study-driven redesigns and upgrades.
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Some details may depend on your location, installer, utility, incentives, regulations, or specific property.
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