Solar, Wind, & Hydro Interconnections

7 Steps to Completing Your Interconnection Project

*Members, all applications submitted after December 1, 2025 will fall under Plumas-Sierra Rural Electric Cooperative’s (PSREC) NEM 3.0 program.

1. Sizing Your System & Verifying Your Program Eligibility

Sizing

• All systems must be sized to be equal to or less than the members’ last 12 months of usage.
• If you do not have 12 months of usage or the home is a new construction project, your system
  can be sized using the equation of 2 watts per livable square foot.
• Proof of square footage must be submitted.
• 12 months of members’ usage history can be requested by contacting PSREC at (530) 832-4261.

Program

• Systems up to 9.9kW will be eligible for the NEM 3.0 program.
• As of December 1, 2025, all applications will fall under the NEM 3.0 program.
• Attachments D & H in the Interconnection of Distributed Resources Policy and Procedure Manual.

2026 generation pricing for all NEM members: $0.04

• • Systems 10kW and above will be eligible for the Co-Energy program.
  • Attachments E & I in the Interconnection of Distributed Resources Policy and Procedure Manual.
  • Contact PSREC at (530) 832-4261 to verify which interconnection program you qualify for.

2. Get Contractor Quotes

• • Tips for Hiring a Solar Contractor (PDF)
  • Solar Consumer Protection Guide (PDF)
  • Guía de protección solar al consumidor (PDF)

3. Submit Your Application to the PSREC Interconnection Department

• Member or contractor submits complete application
• System design included
• Electrical one-line drawing included
• Applicable fees included

• • Application Instructions and Checklist (PDF)
  • Interconnection of Distributed Resources Policy and Procedures Manual (PDF)
  • Instrucciones de aplicación solar y lista de verificación (PDF)
  • Interconexión de Recursos Distribuidos Política y Manual de Procedimientos (PDF)

4. Application Review

• • Submit application at least 6 weeks prior to proposed interconnection
    (10 weeks for 400 Amp or commercial service).
  • PSREC reviews application for completeness and accuracy.
  • Any required corrections must be made by the member or contractor.
  • Applications will be reviewed and responded to within 15 business days.
  • Construction may begin after application approval.
  • Notify PSREC and provide an estimated installation completion date.

5. System Installation

• • Contractor installs the system.
  • The system can not be energized until the meter is exchanged.

6. City or County Conducts Building Code Inspection

• • Member or contractor obtains local jurisdiction inspection.
  • Send inspection notification to PSREC.

7. PSREC Inspection & Meter Change Out

• • Submit a copy of the final building permit showing approved inspection.
  • Call PSREC to schedule a meter exchange (may take up to 10 business days).
  • PSREC personnel will inspect the system for compliance with PSREC standards.