Path-Q Solar

What utility fees, metering changes, and electrical upgrade costs should a landlord investigate before aggregating solar generation across buildings with separate meters?

Answer

Investigate whether the utility permits generation from one location to offset consumption at other meters and identify every application, study, metering, communication, interconnection, tariff, and upgrade charge. The arrangement may be unavailable or economically unattractive without a utility-approved structure.

Key points

  • Confirm whether virtual, aggregated, shared, or other multi-meter arrangements are allowed for the buildings and ownership structure.
  • Request a written fee schedule covering applications, studies, inspections, new or modified meters, communications, and ongoing administration.
  • Assess transformer, switchgear, service, protection, export-control, and distribution-system upgrades at each affected site.
  • Determine how credits, excess generation, demand charges, standby charges, and account changes would be allocated.

What it depends on

  • Utility territory and tariff
  • Ownership and account relationships among the buildings
  • System size, generation location, load profiles, and export pattern
  • Existing service capacity, meters, switchgear, and interconnection equipment
  • Applicable programs, approvals, and building or electrical requirements

Risks and trade-offs

  • A multi-meter structure can add administrative complexity and recurring fees.
  • Required electrical upgrades may materially change project economics or schedule.
  • Credits may not match the timing, value, or location of consumption, and program rules may change.

Information you may need

  • Utility account numbers, tariffs, interval usage, and site electrical drawings
  • A preliminary generation and export model
  • The utility's current multi-meter and interconnection requirements
  • Potential upgrade estimates and program eligibility conditions

Your next step

What to do next

Ask the utility and a qualified electrical engineer for a written feasibility review and itemized cost estimate before committing to equipment or financing.

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Some details may depend on your location, installer, utility, incentives, regulations, or specific property.

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