Renewable Energy
Energy generated by consumers is becoming more and more popular. As the cost of wind generators and solar panels continue to become more affordable, more and more people are installing these systems to help with their power needs. To accommodate LJEC members that wish to install a renewable energy source, we have developed rates to serve those members.
Net Metering (Renewable Energy Source)
Net metering allows a member to offset some or all of their electrical requirements with their own renewable generation source. The generation can be banked, regardless of the time of generation, and then credited back to the member at any time during the current billing cycle.
A meter will measure the exported (excess member generated power) versus the imported power (power provided by the cooperative) over a specific billing period. The member receives full credit for the exported power. Any excess exported (member-generated) power above and beyond the member's consumption is granted to the cooperative at the end of each billing cycle.
- Renewable generators for residential accounts have a maximum capacity of up to 25kW
- Renewable generators for commercial accounts have a maximum capacity of up to 200kW
Parallel Generation
Members also have the option to inteconnect under two parallel generation riders where the member can sell exported (member-generated) power back to the cooperative at rates established by the Kansas Parallel Generation Act, which provides enhanced buyback for certain renewable energy generators qualifying under State law.
Parallel Generation - Renewable Energy Source
Each billing cycle of approximately 30 days, the imported power (cooperative supplied power) is sold to the member at the retail rate; the exported power (member-generated power) is purchased by the cooperative at 150% of the wholesale monthly system average cost of energy per kWh. The generation and consumption are time sensitive and banking is not allowed.
Systemwide renewable generation sources are limited to a total capacity of 5% of LJEC's peak demand under this Act.
- Renewable energy generators for residential accounts have a capacity of up to 25kW
- Renewable energy generators for commercial accounts have a capacity of up to 200kW
- Irrigation systems can have no more than 10 pumps
Parallel Generation - Non-Renewable Energy Source
This provides buyback for energy produced by non-renewable energy source generators larger than 200kW. Each billing cycle of approximately 30 days, the imported power (cooperative supplied power) is sold to the member at the retail rate; the exported power (member-generated power) is purchased by the cooperative at 100% of the monthly system average cost of energy per kWh. The generation and consumption are time sensitive and banking is not allowed.
What Is The Difference?
When a member considers whether to use "Net Metering" or "Parallel Generation", it is important to understand the differences. With "Parallel Generation" any exported power is measured by the meter and the cooperative purchases it from the member. With "Net Metering", any exported power is banked and can be withdrawn during each billing period. Excess exported power not withdrawn during the billing cycle is granted to the cooperative.
The following table outlines the differences with Parallel Generation and Net Metering.
It is important that you have realistic expectations on your return on investment. Kansas Electric Cooperatives (KEC) has produced a cash flow model to help you determing your return on investment for small wind generators.
Kansas Electric Cooperatives Small Wind Generator Cash Flow Model
If you intend to erect a small wind generator and/or solar panels, the following documents will help you through the process. You are welcome to contact our Member Services department with any questions (888-796-6111).
