GREEN ENERGY
MICRO-GENERATION
Producing your own green energy
In January 2009, the Government of Alberta implemented a regulation that makes it easier for Albertans to generate green electricity to power their own home, farm or business. Micro-generation customers remain connected to the distribution system (grid), so they can obtain electrical power when needed from the grid and also receive credit from their retailer for any power they send into the electricity grid. The intent of the regulation is for the generator to be sized no larger than the electrical requirement as stated in the regulation; “generator to meet all or a portion of the customer’s electrical needs”.
Micro-generating units must use a renewable, environmentally-friendly fuel source such as solar panels, small-scale hydro, wind, biomass, micro-cogeneration and fuel cells. The maximum generating capacity is one megawatt (1MW) and the regulation allows for qualified micro-generators to have their connection costs paid for by the distribution utility. For full details on micro-generation please refer to the AUC website below.
Interested in generating your own electricity? The Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) is overseeing implementation of Micro-Generation Regulation. They have developed processes to simplify approvals and interconnection agreements.
- Step 1: If you are interested in generating your own renewable electricity, start by familiarizing yourself with the AUC’s Micro–Generation Application Guideline. It provides a step-by-step summary and helps customers consider safety, equipment, installations and legal matters.
- Step 2: If you want to proceed, complete the micro-generation application form and submit it to Rick Maclise by FAX 403 227-7540 or email r.maclise@carea.ca
AUC Micro-Generation
http://www.auc.ab.ca/rule-development/micro-generation/Pages/default.aspx
AUC Application Guideline
RENEWABLE ENERGY CREDITS
CAREA members can choose to generate green electricity power to their home, farm, or business, providing they follow Government regulations. Micro-generation customers remain connected to the distribution system (grid), so they can obtain electrical power when needed from the grid and receive credit from their retailer for any power they send into the electric grid. For CAREA members, who wish to begin a micro generation program, please complete the Micro Generation Application form
For more information about CAREA's stance on green energy, you can click on the following link and listen to CAREA's General Manager, Pat Bourne, talk all about it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=99ZfR5RmnNY. The video also features a CAREA member that generates his own power.