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Distribution Generator Interconnections

The distribution generator interconnection team assists generator owners who would like to connect to the BC Hydro distribution system (up to 35 kV). We will be able to help you if you are:

  • An independent power producer (IPP) who intends to sell power to BC Hydro;
  • A customer using one or more generators to offset your load consumption (also called load displacement);
  • An existing customer adding or replacing a generator to your facility; or
  • A generator owner who would like to synchronize your generator to our network.

If you are looking for interconnections over 35 kV or information on our wholesale transmission service, see transmission generator interconnections.

If you are planning to sell power to BC Hydro, start by reviewing the Standing Offer Program (SOP). There have been important recent developments to the SOP that may affect your project.

Connection process overview

All generator interconnection requests are first-come, first-served. Each interconnection request is first  reviewed for technical compatibility. We will then assess the impacts of the interconnection request on our system and facilities taking into consideration key project specifics like site location, generator type, size and the proposed power output.

The general distribution generator interconnection process consists of five steps.

  1. Basic distribution system information request
  2. Screening study (recommended but optional)
  3. System impact study
  4. Facilities study
  5. Distribution generator interconnection agreement

Related documents

Technical requirements

Revenue metering requirements

For details about revenue metering requirements, please go to our technical standards and guides.

Micro-generator projects

Micro-generation is the production of electricity on a small scale, using renewable and alternative energy sources. We define a micro-generator as one that intends to add over 100 kW and up to 1 MW into the distribution system. Micro-generator projects need to successfully complete the basic distribution information request and screening study (outlined in the five steps above). After that, your project may require a system impact study or your project may qualify for our streamlined design stage application process.

When you submit your completed micro-generator project application, make sure you also include the required $7,500 deposit.

Closed transition transfer generators

Closed transition transfer (CTT) projects (temporary parallel operation with a utility) find widespread use in hospitals, data centres and critical facilities where load is sensitive to momentary power loss when transferring between two acceptable sources.

If you have a generator you're looking to connect to our grid for the purpose of temporarily transferring load to/from standby generation to/from BC Hydro, the following information on this connection process will apply to you:

How to reach us

We're happy to help. Feel free to contact us with any generator-related questions. 

Email: distribution.generators@bchydro.com

BC Hydro
Edmonds B03
6911 Southpoint Drive
Burnaby, B.C.
V3N 4X8

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