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Member-Owned Generation
Generate Your Own Power. Stay Connected to the Grid.
Wright-Hennepin supports members who want to generate their own electricity from renewable sources like solar or wind. This process, known as cogeneration or distributed energy, allows you to power your home or business first with the energy you produce. Any excess electricity is automatically sent back to WH’s grid for compensation.
Please Note: All member-owned generation systems must follow the state mandated Cooperative Minnesota Distributed Energy Resources Interconnection Process (C-MIP), which ensures a safe and efficient connection to the grid. Additionally, all member-owned generation systems must be submitted and approved through the NOVA Power Portal prior to interconnecting.
How It Works
Research and Plan Your System
Research solar or wind options, understand costs and benefits, and confirm your system meets Wright-Hennepin and C-MIP requirements.
Apply For and Receive Approval
Submit an interconnection application to Wright-Hennepin through the NOVA Power Portal and receive approval before installation begins.
Install Your System and Start Generating Power
Install your approved renewable energy system and complete required inspections. Once interconnected, your system begins producing electricity, which is used by your home or business first.
Export and Track Energy
When your system produces more energy than you need, the excess is sent to the Wright-Hennepin grid. Special metering tracks both the energy you use from the grid and the energy you export.
Buy, Sell, and Receive Credit
Under a uniform contract or interconnection agreement, you may receive credits or payments for the electricity your system sends back to the grid.
Tips for Avoiding Solar Scams
Before signing any contracts, do your research. Be cautious of high-pressure sales tactics or offers that seem too good to be true. Compare proposals, understand total costs, and verify any promised savings. Ask installers for proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance, and request at least three customer references. Always work with a reputable contractor. Be wary of companies claiming to represent Wright-Hennepin or guaranteeing bill elimination or fast approvals. Wright-Hennepin does not endorse specific installers and encourages members to review contracts carefully and confirm interconnection requirements before moving forward.
Details & Requirements
Safety, Technical, and Metering Requirements
All systems must meet state-mandated interconnection requirements and Wright-Hennepin standards, including technical, metering, inverter, and safety specifications, to ensure a safe and reliable connection to the grid.
Application and Approval
Your planned system must be submitted and approved by Wright-Hennepin before interconnecting. All interconnection applications must be completed through the NOVA Power Portal.
Grid Access Charges
Grid access charges may apply based on your system type and usage, as detailed in the Small Power Production Rider.
System Size Considerations
The size of your system determines the interconnection process track, technical requirements, and rate eligibility. Members and contractors should review the C-MIP process overview<ADD LINK and the Small Power Production Rider for details
Benefits & Incentives
Energy Savings
Reduce your monthly electric bill by using the clean energy you generate yourself.
Environmental Benefits
Lower your carbon footprint by generating your own renewable energy.
Credits for Excess Energy
Receive compensation for excess power you sell back to the grid, as outlined in your interconnection agreement.
Ready to Get Started?
Submit your application, upload documents, and track your interconnection status through the NOVA Power Portal. If you have questions, please contact us by emailing DER@whe.org or call us at (763) 477-3150.
Take a Closer Look at the Interconnection Process
Understand what to expect after you submit your interconnection application.
Related Documents
ADDITIONAL Resources:
WH Service Connection Guide
Local Democracy Rules Implemented under MN Statute 216B.164
Small Power Production Rider (rates) (Effective February 14, 2025)
Cogeneration Distributed Energy Equipment Policy
Annual Notification to Membership
Contractors:
Please review WH's new Distributed Utility Required Profile (DU-URP), effective 1/2/24.
Annual Filings:
Average Retail Cooperative Energy Rates Calculation
Estimated Average Incremental Energy Cost
Frequently Asked Questions
Distributed Generation Dispute Resolution
If you have a dispute with Wright-Hennepin regarding rights or responsibilities related to distributed generation, such as solar or wind systems, you must first submit a Dispute Form.
Once the form is received, Wright-Hennepin will schedule an informational meeting with you and the Cooperative’s CEO within 10 business days. If the issue is not resolved through that meeting, a hearing will be scheduled with the Wright-Hennepin Board of Directors.
This dispute resolution process follows the Cooperative’s distributed generation rules and is authorized under Minnesota Statute 216B.164, Subdivision 11.
Solar Choice
Support clean energy by subscribing to solar without installing panels at your home. Choose the amount of solar energy that fits your needs.
Renewable Choice
Power your home with renewable energy by selecting blocks of wind or solar, allowing you to match more of your usage with clean resources.
Community Solar
Participate in WH’s community solar arrays and receive bill credits for the energy produced, an easy way to go solar without rooftop installation.