If you are ready to start the process of interconnecting your own distributed renewable generation system to the CDE Lightband distribution system, then please follow this step-by-step guide. Please remember that no distributed generation system can be operated in connection with the CDE Lightband distribution system until all of these steps have been completed.
| Step | Purpose | Resource |
|---|---|---|
| First, you can talk to a CDE Lightband Energy Pro about the scope of your project and the optimal system size for your home. | Talk to a CDE Lightband energy expert. | |
| Once you have selected a contractor, the contractor can complete the CDE Lightband Application for Interconnection of Distributed Generation on your behalf. | This document will help CDE Lightband understand the technical specifications of your proposed project. | cde-lightband-application-for-interconnection-of-distributed-generation |
| After submitting the CDE Lightband Application for interconnection you (or your contractor) will be instructed to pay an application fee. | Application fees are necessary to cover the utility expense of evaluating the project for interconnection and ensuring distribution system safety and reliability. Application fees are: $250.00 for Systems less than 50kW DC (partial kW will be rounded) $500.00 for Systems greater than or equal to 50kW DC (partial kW will be rounded) | To pay application fees make checks payable to Clarksville Department of Electricity, mailed or delivered to 2021 Wilma Rudolph Blvd. Clarksville TN 37040 ATTN: Energy Services Department. Please write “Application for Interconnection” and the project address, if different from address on check, in the note field.Application fees are: |
| Now you can complete the CDE Lightband Interconnection and Parallel Operations Agreement for Distributed Generation. | This is a simple but important document outlining CDE's policies for interconnecting distributed generation to the CDE Lightband distribution system. | interconnection-and-parallel-operations-agreement-for-distributed-generation |
| Once steps one through five have been completed, and CDE Lightband has provided written approval to proceed, your contractor can install your proposed system. | ||
| Your contractor will need an electrical permit for the installation of your system, and upon completion of system installation, the work will need to pass an inspection. Electrical permitting and inspections are handled by the City of Clarksville Building and Codes Department. | Clarksville Building and Codes | |
| Finally, your contractor will contact CDE Lightband and schedule a System Acceptance Test, and when your system passes this test you will be provided a System Acceptance Form. | System Acceptance testing is a crucial step in the interconnection process, which ensures the safety of your system and also the safety of utility workers in our service area. Remember your system cannot be energized until this final step is complete and you have received the System Acceptance Form from CDE Lightband. | |
| CDE Lightband is offering a first-of-its-kind opportunity for customers to sell excess power generation. This program is easy to sign up for. If you're interested in selling excess generation to CDE Lightband please complete the Power Partner Agreement form. | CDE Lightband ensures that you are compensated for excess generation that might be delivered back to the electric distribution system. | cde-lightband-power-partner-agreement |
If you’re interested in learning more about renewable energy generation, such as solar power, and how distributed renewable generation can benefit our community, please visit the CDE Lightband Renewable Energy Resource Information Center.