Oncor - Frequently Asked Questions

Will my existing Oncor meter work with my DRG (distributed renewable generation) system?

No. If you have an analog meter, Oncor will replace it with a new, specially programmed digital meter. If you have a new digital meter, Oncor will reprogram it to register in-flow and out-flow (a "dual register" meter).

For additional information, refer to: How can I get an in-flow/out-flow "dual register" meter?

How do I determine if I have a "dual register" meter (i.e., DRG meter, in-flow/out-flow meter)?

A "dual register" meter can also be referred to as a DRG meter or in-flow/out-flow meter which has separate registers for in-flow and out-flow energy. Energy flowing from the grid to the customer is measured by the "in-flow" register and energy flowing from the customer to the grid is measured by the "out-flow" register. Oncor meters have digital display registers which scroll in four-second intervals with each being identified by a three digit code. The display register code showing the contents of out-flow kWh is 057. If you see the meter display the register code 057, then you know you have a "dual register" meter.

For additional information, refer to: How do I read my DRG meter? and How can I get an in-flow/out-flow "dual register" meter?

How can I get an in-flow/out-flow "dual register" meter?

An in-flow/out-flow meter will be provided upon submitting an Interconnection Application unless circumstances dictate one might not be required (such as the case of a large customer load and a very small generating system.) Requests to install an in-flow/out-flow meter will be delayed if the electric service account is not permanent (e.g., temporary pole).

For additional information, refer to: Can I complete the DRG interconnection process if my facility is being served with a temporary electric service installation from Oncor?

How much will an in-flow/out-flow meter cost?

Oncor generally will not charge for metering changes related to the installation of an in-flow/out-flow meter. If you request non-standard metering or in the case of large exporting systems, such as solar farms or large renewable exporters (generally larger than 1,000 kW), then there could be metering charges.

Can I get net metering?

No. Oncor utilizes metering that measures in-flow and out-flow energy in separate channels.

"Net metering" is commonly defined as a single channel meter (some say "spins forward and backward" if an analog meter) that allows for off-sets (some say energy banking) and results in one value being reported at the end of the billing period. Transmission and distribution utilities (TDUs), such as Oncor, provide meters that measure separate in-flow and out-flow values for renewable generators pursuant to state law and Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) rules. TDUs in Texas are not allowed to install meters that subtract out-flow from in-flow within the meter. Remember, anytime you simultaneously generate and consume electric energy you are "netting" and avoiding using energy you would have purchased at retail rates.

For additional information, refer to: "What happens to the energy I generate?"

Is Oncor required to purchase my energy?

No. Transmission and distribution utilities (TDUs), such as Oncor, in competitive areas of Texas are prohibited from selling electric energy to end-use customers and buying electric energy from generation facilities. In competitive areas of Texas, Retail Electric Providers (REPs) buy and sell electricity.

For additional information, refer to: How do I get paid for my excess energy?

For information on electric choice and a list of Retail Electric Providers in your area, visit www.powertochoose.org or call Texas Choice at 1-866-797-4839.

Can Oncor provide a list of Retail Electric Providers and their buy-back rates?

No. For information on electric choice and a list of Retail Electric Providers (REPs) that buy and sell energy in your area, visit: www.powertochoose.org or call Texas Choice at 1-866-797-4839. The link on this Texas Electric Choice website titled: "Generating and Selling Renewable Power" also might be helpful.

Why is the generated energy shown on my customer-owned meter different from the Oncor meter out-flow kWh energy register?

Customer-owned metering is normally installed to measure the total amount of energy generated by the renewable system. This output can serve customer loads or be exported to the grid. The Oncor out-flow kWh register only measures the energy sent to the grid. The only time you would expect to have your total generation output equal the Oncor out-flow kWh register would be when you have no energy being consumed at your facility.

Here is an example using energy data:
Assume you have a 5 kW generating system operating for one hour resulting in 5 kWh of output (5kW x 1 hr = 5 kWh). If you have a customer-owned meter measuring total output, your meter will increment by 5 kWh. Assume at the same time you only have a 5 kW oven operating for one hour and consuming 5 kWh. The Oncor out-flow kWh register will not measure any energy flow because your generated energy will go directly to your oven. In this example, the Oncor out-flow kWh register will remain unchanged and your customer owned meter will increment by 5 kWh.

For additional information, refer to: How do I read my DRG meter?

When is Oncor going to install a second meter near my inverter system which measures all the energy that is generated from my renewable system?

Oncor does not provide this type of metering. Oftentimes incentive programs require a meter that measures the total output of the renewable system. This type of metering is sometimes called "Customer-Owned Measurement and Verification Metering." Oncor only provides metering that measures the in-flow and out-flow energy at the Oncor point of common coupling (Oncor delivery point.) Please consult your contractor or vendor to obtain a customer-owned meter to satisfy this requirement.

What happens to the energy I generate?

If you are producing more than you are consuming, then the excess energy goes to the grid. Conversely, if you are consuming more than you are producing, then all of your generated energy is being consumed by you, and any additional energy requirements you have will be provided from the grid (i.e., in-flow kWh). The figures below illustrate two basic scenarios for power flow between the DRG, customer's facility, and the grid.

How do I get paid for my excess energy?

Only a REP can give you the benefits of your excess energy (out-flow kWh) in the form of payments, off-sets, or credits. You will need to contact your REP to negotiate a REP Agreement to obtain these benefits.

For additional information, refer to: Who is my Retail Electric Provider?

When will I receive benefits for my out-flow energy?

TDUs, such as Oncor do not issue credits or provide benefits for out-flow energy. TDUs are prohibited from buying and selling electric energy. You will need to contact your REP for questions related to credits or benefits related to your electric bill. There are some issues (listed below) that could delay or prevent out-flow kWh reporting.

The following are issues and requirements that could delay or cause customer credits/benefits not to occur:

Oncor will not report out-flow kWh energy for new Interconnection Applications until you have signed an Interconnection Agreement. To obtain information on Interconnection Agreements, refer to: How can I get an Interconnection Agreement?
To receive credits or benefits for excess energy requires the installation of an Oncor meter that measures out-flow kWh. Please refer to: How do I determine if I have a "dual register" meter (i.e., DRG meter, in-flow/out-flow meter)? to verify you have the correct meter.
For customers to receive benefits or credits from a REP, an active REP Agreement is required. REP Agreements are confidential agreements between the customer and REP and specify crediting arrangements. For information on electric choice and a list of Retail Electric Providers in your area visit www.powertochoose.org or call Texas Choice at 1-866-797-4839.
Be aware that Oncor will begin reporting out-flow kWh energy to the market operator, ERCOT, after the first full monthly billing cycle following the latter of either the DRG meter install date or the Oncor Interconnection Agreement Effective Date. Out-flow kWh energy reporting could be delayed if these time periods have not been fulfilled.

Here is an example using dates:
Oncor Meter Reading Dates (full billing cycles):
From/To - September 9, 2011
From/To - October 11, 2011
From/To - November 10, 2011
From/To - December 9, 2011

Now, assume the DRG meter was installed on September 22, 2011 and the effective Interconnection Agreement date was October 14, 2011. The latter of these two dates is October 14, 2011. This means the first period of out-flow meter reading data will be available to your REP for the billing cycle of November 10, 2011 to December 9, 2011. Oncor has all readings, including partial month readings, but the market operator (ERCOT) will not accept outflow meter reading information unless it contains a full billing month of data. In this example your REP will be able to retrieve full month readings from the market operator after December 9, 2011.
Customers may have consumed all the energy they have generated. Refer to: What happens to the electricity I generate? and How do I know if my in-flow/out-flow meter is working and measuring my out-flow energy? for information and suggestions related to verifying out-flow or in-flow energy at your facility.
Customers need to confirm their REP is obtaining out-flow energy readings. If you contact your REP and they indicate that your account does not have out-flow data, then request your REP to contact Oncor. If your REP tells you to call Oncor, please be aware that you will most likely not be able to resolve electronic transaction issues or reporting issues which occur between the REP and Oncor. Your REP should be able to resolve these issues with Oncor.

Why did my credit not show up on my bill (for out-flow energy)?

Oncor does not bill you. Please contact your Retail Electric Provider regarding credits/benefits for your out-flow energy.

For additional information, refer to: When will I receive benefits for my out-flow energy?"

How do I read my DRG meter?

The display for a DRG meter automatically cycles through different views to provide various meter information to the user. Common views are: Segment Check, Service Switch Status, In-flow kWh (energy consumption), Maximum kW, Out-flow kWh (energy exported to the grid), Power Factor and GSS. Descriptions of each display are provided below.

Segment Check – Below is a picture of the segment check display which shows all display segment indicators. This "segment check" display is a diagnostic tool used by Oncor to make sure that all of the display segments are working properly.

TEST

Service Switch Status – This display shows the status of the meter service switch. If CLS is shown in this display, the meter service switch is in the closed position and power is able to flow through the meter. If OPN is shown, the meter service switch is in the open position, power is prevented from flowing through the meter, and Oncor service to the customer is disconnected.

In-flow kWh – The 001 display is a cumulative register representing customer consumption in kWh, i.e., in-flow kWh. The odometer in your car is an example of a cumulative register. Yesterday's reading subtracted from today's reading would yield one day of kWh usage (if your meter multiplier is "one"). Some meters utilize a multiplier other than "one." For example, if the meter multiplier is "three"', you would calculate energy consumption as described above, and then multiply by "three". See the figure, About Meter Multipliers, below. The display shown below indicates a cumulative register reading of 6372.

001 = In-flow kWh

About Meter Multipliers - If the meter multiplier is anything other than "1", it will be printed on the meter faceplate as shown here. The portion of the meter faceplate indicated by the black oval may be left blank if the meter has a multiplier of "1".

Maximum kW – The 020 display represents "Max kW." This register indicates the peak 15-minute demand (in kilowatts or kW) since this register was last reset. Max kW is not used for billing purposes on residential accounts and thus is not reset monthly on residential meters. Max kW applies only to energy delivered to the customer. The display shown reads 2.72 kW.

020 = Max kW

Out-flow kWh – The 057 display is a cumulative register representing "out-flow kWh" or energy flowing out from the customer and sent to the grid. When customer generation exceeds customer load, energy flows from the customer through the meter and to the grid. Yesterday's reading subtracted from today's reading would yield one day of excess kWh generated and sent to the grid (if your meter multiplier is "one"). Some meters utilize a multiplier other than "one". For example, if the meter multiplier is "three", you would calculate energy delivered to the grid as described above, and then multiply by "three". Meter multipliers are indicated on the face of the meter. The display shown below indicates a cumulative register reading of 0.

057 = Out-flow kWh

Power Factor – The 083 display represents Power Factor. Power Factor is not used for billing purposes for residential or small commercial customers.

083 = Power Factor

GSS – The GSS display is the meter manufacturer's acronym for "Gridstream System" and indicates the communication technology utilized by the meter reading system. This display is not used for billing purposes.

GSS = Gridstream System

For more information regarding Oncor Metering, refer to: Smart Texas - Rethinking Energy or Oncor Metering Services

How do I know if my in-flow/out-flow meter is working and measuring my out-flow energy?

Scroll Bar

When your meter is registering energy flow, the scroll bar moves across the bottom of the digital register display. When energy is being consumed, the scroll bar progresses from left to right. When energy is flowing from the customer's facility to the grid, it progresses from right to left. One way to ensure your system is working is to turn off all energy consuming devices (your load) and your generation system. If everything is off, the scroll bar will be stopped. Once the scroll bar is verified to be stopped, turn your generation system back on-line. If the scroll bar begins moving from right to left, it represents out-flow energy. This confirms your meter is registering out-flow energy. Now to determine if your system is operating as expected, take a reading of the 057 out-flow kWh register. If you have a three kW solar system operating at full capacity, then in one hour you should produce three kWh (3 kW x 1 hr = 3 kWh) and the out-flow register should have incremented by three units.

For additional information, refer to: How to Read Your DRG Meter.

Can I get energy data for out-flow kWh (energy sent to the grid) from Smart Meter Texas?

To get out-flow energy data from the Smart Meter Texas (SMT) website, the following must first occur:

A DRG Meter needs to have been installed at your home or business,
Oncor needs to have completed installation of all its required hardware and registration systems,
You will need to have completed registration with an account on the Smart Meter Texas (SMT) website.

For additional information on approximate dates for Oncor's SMT deployment plan by geographical areas visit DFW metroplex or Non-Metro areas.

In-flow (consumption) data can be viewed on the Smart Meter Texas website in 15-minute intervals in tabular or graphical format and can also be exported in a comma separated value (CSV) text file.

Out-flow (energy sent to grid) data cannot be viewed in 15-minute intervals in tabular or graphical format, but can only be exported in a comma separated value (CSV) text file. You will need to select a date range of two days or more to get out-flow data when exporting.

CSV files can be opened in a variety of software applications that are used to create spreadsheets or databases. Please call the SMT Help Desk at 1-888-616-5859 with any questions or issues you have with registering on the SMT website or with viewing or exporting your energy data.

Are the Oncor delivery system charges (pass through charges) on my electric bill due to my DRG installation?

You pay delivery system charges any time you use Oncor services. Oncor's delivery system charges (including the advance meter surcharge) are not a result of the installation of a DRG system. For information about pass-through charges from Oncor on your electric bill, you will need to contact your REP. Your REP should understand the components of Oncor's delivery service charges and should be able to explain them to you. If they do not, then your REP can contact Oncor for an explanation of the charges.

For additional information about Oncor's Smart Texas advanced metering initiative, refer to: Smart Texas Frequently Asked Questions.

Is the Oncor advanced meter surcharge being charged because of my DRG meter?

You pay delivery system charges any time you use Oncor services. Oncor's delivery system charges (including the advance meter surcharge) are not a result of the installation of a DRG system. For information about pass-through charges from Oncor on your electric bill, you will need to contact your REP. Your REP should understand the components of Oncor's delivery service charges and should be able to explain them to you. If they do not, then your REP can contact Oncor for an explanation of the charges.

For additional information about Oncor's Smart Texas advanced metering initiative, refer to: Smart Texas Frequently Asked Questions.

What is a certified or non-certified DRG system?

A certified DRG system is an inverter based system which has been tested and certified to meet the standards specified in UL-1741 Utility Interactive (Underwriters Laboratory). Your DRG system vendor can verify DRG system certification. Conversely, if your system does not meet UL-1741 requirements, it is a non-certified system.

For additional information regarding certification listings, refer to: www.gosolarcalifornia.ca.gov/equipment/inverters.php

What is the process for interconnecting certified DRG systems?

A certified DRG system is an inverter based system which has been tested and certified to meet the standards specified in UL-1741 Utility Interactive. The process for interconnecting certified DRGs to the Oncor system is as follows:

Customer prepares and submits to Oncor a complete Interconnection Application,
Oncor receives and reviews application for completeness,
Oncor provides an in-flow/out-flow meter. Please allow up to three weeks for completion,
Oncor prepares, submits and secures an executed Interconnection Agreement from customer,

Final authorization for operation is granted after the Interconnection Agreement is executed and proper metering is installed.

What is the general process description for applications that are not certified?

Systems that do not meet the requirements of UL-1741 utility interactive are not certified. The general process involves:

Oncor receives a completed Interconnection Application and secures an Impact Study Fee,
Oncor prepares and submits to customer an Impact Study or Service Study,
Oncor secures payment from customer identified in the Impact Study for any required system changes,
Oncor schedules and completes any required system changes,
Oncor reviews customer relay test reports,
Oncor prepares, submits and secures an executed Interconnection Agreement from customer.

The application Induction and Small Non-Certified Systems can be obtained by either contacting Oncor at Contact Us – Interconnection Questions or visiting the Interconnection Application Request portion of this website and downloading the application.

Final authorization for operation is granted after the Interconnection Agreement is executed, proper metering is installed, and all of the general process items are completed.

When am I approved to begin installing my DRG system?

You may begin installing your DRG system at any time. You are not authorized to operate your system unless you have secured an Interconnection Agreement, and Oncor has installed appropriate metering for registering out-flow kWh. This includes any requirements involving safety placards, labeling or other protective requirements specified during the application process. In most cases, an on-site inspection is not required for final approval of your DRG system; however, Oncor has the right to inspect your facility during startup or anytime, provided you are given reasonable notice and it is during reasonable hours. If you operate a DRG system without signing the Interconnection Agreement with Oncor, you are violating the Oncor tariff and the Public Utility Commission of Texas rules which could make you subject to disconnection by Oncor. On-site inspection requirements discussed above are associated with the interconnection application process and are separate from any energy efficiency or incentive program inspection requirements.

When am I authorized to operate my DRG system?

You may begin installing your DRG system at any time. You are not authorized to operate your system unless you have secured an Interconnection Agreement, and Oncor has installed appropriate metering for registering out-flow kWh. This includes any requirements involving safety placards, labeling or other protective requirements specified during the application process. In most cases, an on-site inspection is not required for final approval of your DRG system; however, Oncor has the right to inspect your facility during startup or anytime, provided you are given reasonable notice and it is during reasonable hours. If you operate a DRG system without signing the Interconnection Agreement with Oncor, you are violating the Oncor tariff and the Public Utility Commission of Texas rules which could make you subject to disconnection by Oncor. On-site inspection requirements discussed above are associated with the interconnection application process and are separate from any energy efficiency or incentive program inspection requirements.

Will an on-site inspection be required for final approval of my system?

You may begin installing your DRG system at any time. You are not authorized to operate your system unless you have secured an Interconnection Agreement, and Oncor has installed appropriate metering for registering out-flow kWh. This includes any requirements involving safety placards, labeling or other protective requirements specified during the application process. In most cases, an on-site inspection is not required for final approval of your DRG system; however, Oncor has the right to inspect your facility during startup or anytime, provided you are given reasonable notice and it is during reasonable hours. If you operate a DRG system without signing the Interconnection Agreement with Oncor, you are violating the Oncor tariff and the Public Utility Commission of Texas rules which could make you subject to disconnection by Oncor. On-site inspection requirements discussed above are associated with the interconnection application process and are separate from any energy efficiency or incentive program inspection requirements.

Does applying for the Oncor solar photovoltaic (PV) incentive program automatically complete the Oncor interconnection process?

No. The interconnection process begins by submitting a completed Interconnection Application, but there are more steps for completion. Customers are encouraged to submit applications at least two to three weeks prior to installation to allow for orderly processing.

To obtain an application, refer to: Interconnection Application Request.

Can I complete the DRG interconnection process if my facility is being served with a temporary electric service installation from Oncor?

No. Oncor will not install a DRG meter on a temporary electric service installation. Customers will need to contact Oncor's Interconnection group when permanent electric service is active. You may utilize the Contact Us - Interconnection to notify Oncor's Interconnection group when your premise has permanent service.

What is the turnaround time for processing an Interconnection Application for DRG systems?

For certified systems, the general processing time for complete applications is around three to four weeks. The processing time for systems that are not certified will vary dependent on particular aspects of the application.

How can I get an Interconnection Agreement?

The process for obtaining an Interconnection Agreement for new systems begins when you submit a complete Interconnection Application. When the Interconnection Application is received by Oncor, the process begins to secure an Interconnection Agreement. The Interconnection Application can be obtained by going to: Interconnection Application Request.

How can I get a copy of Oncor's Interconnection Application?

The process for obtaining an Interconnection Agreement for new systems begins when you submit a complete Interconnection Application. When the Interconnection Application is received by Oncor, the process begins to secure an Interconnection Agreement. The Interconnection Application can be obtained by going to: Interconnection Application Request.

How do I get the Interconnection Agreement transferred into my name for the home I just purchased that has an existing DRG system?

Customers who purchase properties with existing generation systems should contact Oncor to request the name change via Contact Us - Interconnection.

Do I have to send in a new application for adding DRG capacity to an existing DRG system?

Yes, a new Interconnection Application will be required. Once the application is processed, a new Interconnection Agreement will be secured showing the change in capacity. This new Agreement will supersede your existing Agreement.

Are there fees associated with the Interconnection Application?

Oncor's Tariff for Retail Delivery Service provides a chart showing the various Oncor study fees for different types of application requests. In general, for small inverter based systems there are no fees. The study fee chart is located in the Interconnection Application.

How do I know if I am in the Oncor service territory?

If you are in Oncor's service area, the first ten digits of your Electric Service Identifier (ESI ID), which is usually printed on your electric bill, will be either 1044372000 or 1017699000.

For additional information, refer to: What is an ESI ID?

What is an ESI ID?

All Oncor customers have an Electric Service Identifier (ESI ID). This number is usually printed on the customer's electric bill. The 17 digit ESI ID includes a ten digit company code and a seven digit premise number. If you are served by Oncor, the first ten digits, the company code, will be either 1044372000 or 1017699000 with the remaining seven digit premise number being a unique code for your specific account. An example of an Oncor ESI ID number is 1044372000 1234567.

What are Oncor's electrical requirements for interconnecting solar or wind systems to the Oncor distribution system grid?

The requirements for interconnection are specified in Oncor's Interconnection Application. The application can be obtained by either contacting Oncor at (Contact Us – Interconnection Questions) or visiting the Interconnection Application Request portion of this website and downloading the application.

What are the design details associated with Oncor's requirement for a manual disconnect device, one-line diagram, and a layout sketch as specified in the Interconnection Application?

Oncor's interconnection requirements specify a manual disconnect device. This disconnect must have a visual break that is appropriate to the voltage and current level, be accessible to utility personnel, and be capable of being locked in the open position. Oncor requests that this disconnect (with appropriate placard caution language) be within ten feet from the Oncor meter and in a readily accessible location. Customers installing disconnects that are not located near the Oncor meter will need to follow the Oncor Placard Guideline or refer to the appropriate Oncor Application for Interconnection for additional information.

Oncor requires a one-line diagram and layout sketch to provide design confirmation of the manual disconnect requirement.

The one-line diagram should show at a minimum: 1) the Oncor meter, 2) the visible, lockable, and labeled AC disconnect (VLLD) and 3) the generation equipment. One-line diagrams do not show physical layouts, but show the sequence of switches, breakers, devices, etc. between the Oncor meter and customer's generation. The one-line is not required to show a high level of detail, but should identify the components listed above.

The layout sketch is to show the relationship (e.g., overhead plan view or physical layout) between: 1) the Oncor meter, 2) the visible, lockable and labeled AC disconnect (VLLD), and 3) customer generation. The requirement of the layout sketch is to identify if the VLLD is near the Oncor meter. This sketch is not required to show a high level of detail for the entire system, but identify the components listed above.

Who is Oncor?

Oncor is a regulated electric transmission and distribution utility (a TDU or wires company) that provides electricity delivery service to consumers pursuant to its Tariff for Retail Delivery Service. Similarly, Oncor may also be referred to as a Transmission Service Provider (TSP) and a Distribution Service Provider (DSP).

TDUs in competitive areas of Texas, such as Oncor, are prohibited from selling electric energy to end-use customers and from buying electric energy from generation facilities. In competitive areas of Texas, Retail Electric Providers (REPs) buy and sell electricity.

Oncor manages the interconnections (safety and reliability) of renewable generators to its electrical grid and provides the metering services needed to correctly account for consumption (in-flow kWh) and generation (out-flow kWh) from distributed renewable generation (DRG) customers.

Who is my Retail Electric Provider?

Your Retail Electric Provider (REP) is the company that you have selected to provide you electric energy (energy you consume). Oncor is not a REP. Your REP is the entity that manages the procurement of generation resources to supply your load and that sends you your monthly electric bill.

Only a REP can give you the benefits of your excess energy (out-flow kWh) in the form of payments, off-sets, or credits. You will need to contact your REP to negotiate these benefits for energy sent to the grid (out-flow kWh).

For additional information regarding electric choice and a list of retail electric providers in your area, refer to: www.powertochoose.org or call Texas Choice at 1-866-797-4839.

How can I find information on Oncor's distribution tariff and state regulations?

For distribution tariff information visit: Tariff for Retail Delivery Service. Distributed generation information is available in Chapter 6.

For Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) state regulations visit: www.puc.state.tx.us/agency/rulesnlaws/subrules/electric/Electric.aspx
Rule 25.211 Interconnection of On-Site Distributed Generation
Rule 25.212 Technical Requirements for Interconnection and Parallel Operation of Distributed Generation
Rule 25.213 Metering for Distributed Renewable Generation

Am I required to register my DG system with any state agencies or governing entities?

Yes. All distributed generation facilities that are interconnected to the electric grid operated by Oncor are required to register with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT). Information about registration requirements for generation at the PUCT can be found here: www.puc.state.tx.us/industry/electric/business/pgc/Pgc.aspx

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), which manages the electric grid for most of the state, requires a separate and additional registration of generation facilities with capacities of 1,000 kW or larger. Information about registration requirements at ERCOT for distributed generation can be found here: www.ercot.com/services/rq/re/dgresource.html

Is Oncor associated with TXU Energy, TXU Corp., TXU Electric, or TXU Electric Delivery?

Oncor (TDU) is legally an affiliate of TXU Energy (REP), as both are owned, in whole or in part, by Energy Future Holdings Corp. TXU Corp., TXU Electric and TXU Electric Delivery are names that are no longer in use by any company. Oncor and TXU Energy are not the same companies. Oncor is regulated by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) and provides quality regulated services to all Retail Electric Providers (REPs) and delivers the electric power to all of the REPs retail customers. Oncor Electric Delivery Company LLC (Oncor) is a separate and distinct business unit from TXU Energy, with a separate board of directors, management team, and headquarters.

How can I find out about Oncor energy efficiency incentive programs?

For general information concerning Oncor's energy efficiency programs, visit: www.takealoadofftexas.com

Can Oncor help me find a contractor to install my renewable system?

For information on finding a participating renewable service provider in your area, visit: www.takealoadofftexas.com/index.aspx?id=find-provider

How can I become an eligible service provider under Oncor’s Solar Photovoltaic programs?

If you are interested in the Solar Photovoltaic program, visit: www.takealoadofftexas.com/index.aspx?id=solar-photovoltaic

What are the requirements for interconnecting emergency or back-up generators?

Stand alone systems not connected to the Oncor grid are not required to submit an Interconnection Application. Emergency generators with transfer switches that "break before make" do not need to apply as they never "parallel or operate synchronously" with the Oncor distribution system. However, these generators do fall under the jurisdiction of the local electrical inspection authorities.

Certified Solar and Wind

Click here for General Steps for Interconnection Inverter Based Certified Solar and Wind.

Distribution Rate Schedules

Click here to see the schedules.

Distributed Renewable Generation (DRG)

Electric generation with a capacity of not more than 2,000 kilowatts provided by a renewable energy technology that is installed on a retail electric customer's side of the meter. Renewable energy technologies include those that rely on energy derived directly from the sun, wind, geothermal, hydroelectric, wave, or tidal energy, or biomass or biomass-based waste products, including landfill gas. A renewable energy technology does not rely on energy resources derived from fossil fuels, waste products from fossil fuels, or waste products from inorganic sources.

DRG Meter

A meter that separately measures in-flow and out-flow energy at the Oncor point of common coupling (point of delivery). That is, the "in-flow" energy, or consumption, is measured by one register while the "out-flow" energy, or energy sent to the grid, is measured by another register. A DRG meter is also known as an in-flow/out-flow meter. For additional information, refer to: How do I read my DRG meter?

DRG System

Distributed Renewable Generation (DRG) systems describe a generator that produces energy from renewable sources, such as solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and on-site wind generators and is interconnected to the electric utility's distribution system.

ERCOT

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas manages the flow of electric power to 85% of the state's electric load. In a geographic sense, ERCOT refers to the areas, such as Oncor, served by electric utilities, municipally owned utilities, and electric cooperatives that are not synchronously interconnected with electric utilities outside the State of Texas. ERCOT administers customer switching in competitive choice areas and manages financial settlement for the competitive wholesale bulk-power market, which includes the facilitation of transmitting consumption and/or generation meter data between REPs, TDUs, and ERCOT.

ESI ID (Electric Service Identifier)

The basic unique identifier assigned to each electric service location in ERCOT. This number is usually printed on the customer's electric bill. The 17 digit ESI ID includes a ten digit company code and a seven digit premise number. If you are served by Oncor, the first ten digits of the company code will be either 1044372000 or 1017699000. The remaining seven digit premise number is unique for your specific account. An example ESI ID is 1044372000 1234567.

Impact Study

A study performed by Oncor to determine if the Oncor system will be adversely impacted by the interconnection of proposed customer-owned generation. This study specifies and identifies the necessary modifications on the Oncor system to allow the interconnection. Refer to Impact Study Fee Schedule for schedule of costs.

In-flow kWh

Oncor meters automatically cycle through different views (registers) to provide information to the user. The in-flow kWh (001) display is a register representing cumulative customer consumption in kWh. The odometer in your car is an example of a cumulative register. Yesterday's reading subtracted from today's reading would yield one day of kWh usage (if your meter multiplier is 'one').

Interconnection Agreement

The standard form of agreement, which has been approved by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT). The interconnection agreement sets forth the contractual conditions under which a company and a customer agree that one or more facilities may be interconnected with the company's utility system. This form, titled "Agreement for Interconnection and Parallel Operation of Distributed Generation," was developed and approved by the PUCT. It specifies the rights and obligations of the parties for the interconnected facilities described in the Agreement. PUCT Substantive Rule §25.211 states the provisions for the utility to secure an Interconnection Agreement. This Agreement will be forwarded to you by Oncor after you submit a completed Interconnection Application. A copy of the agreement can be obtained from www.oncor.com/electricity/tariffs/distrates/.

Select: "Tariff for Retail Delivery Service (PDF)" In Chapter 6, Section 6.3.4, you will find Agreement for Interconnection and Parallel Operation of Distributed Generation.

Interconnection Agreement Effective Date

The Interconnection Agreement becomes effective when executed by both Oncor and the customer. The effective date is the latter of the Oncor or customer signature dates.

Interconnection Application

This form titled, "Application for Interconnection and Parallel Operation of Distributed Generation with the Utility System" is used to submit a request to Oncor for interconnection of customer-owned generation. This document specifies information such as the name, address, generator sizes, generator types, one-line diagram, etc. which is used to represent the facilities requested to be interconnected. To get an application, go to: Interconnection Application Request.

Layout Sketch

A drawing that shows the relationship (e.g., overhead view of the physical layout) between the Oncor meter, the visible lockable and labeled AC disconnect (VLLD), and the customer's generation. The goal of the sketch is to show the location of the VLLD, which is requested to be within ten feet from the Oncor meter and in a readily accessible location. This sketch is not required to show a high level of detail.

Oncor Placard Guideline

Oncor's requirements related to specifications for safety placard guidelines. To get the guideline, go to: Interconnection Application Request and select "Oncor Placard Guideline".

One-line Diagram

A diagram that shows the sequence of switches, breakers, devices, etc. starting at the Oncor meter and continuing to the customer's generator. This diagram shows the location of the visible AC disconnect in relation to the Oncor meter and other equipment in the electrical circuit.

Out-flow kWh

Oncor meters automatically cycle through different views (registers) to provide information to the user. The out-flow kWh (057) display is a register representing cumulative "out-flow kWh" or energy flowing out from the customer and sent to the grid. When customer generation exceeds customer load, energy flows from the customer through the meter and to the grid. Yesterday's reading subtracted from today's reading would yield one day of kWh generated and sent to the grid (if your meter multiplier is 'one').

Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT)

The state agency that regulates Texas' electric and telecommunication utilities, implements respective legislation, and offers customer assistance in resolving consumer complaints.

Retail Electric Provider (REP)

A person or entity that sells electric energy to retail customers in competitive areas of Texas. A Retail Electric Provider may not own or operate generation assets. REPs may purchase energy, including out-flow energy from a DRG.

REP Agreement

The agreement that the customer has with his/her Retail Electric Provider to buy electricity (in-flow kWh) and, if applicable, to sell excess generation (out-flow kWh). This agreement is a confidential bilateral agreement negotiated between the customer and his/her Retail Electric Provider.

Service Study

Generally performed for smaller certified solar and wind systems and covers many of the same issues involved with the Impact Study.

Smart Meter Texas

A website sponsored by a consortium of electric transmission and distribution service providers (TDSPs) doing business in the state of Texas. Smart Meter Texas is a site which allows users to obtain access to consumption (in-flow kWh) data for customers with "smart meters" in areas that have been provisioned with the new technology.

Transmission and Distribution Utility (TDU)

An entity that owns or operates for compensation in Texas, equipment or facilities to transmit or distribute electricity, but does not include a municipally owned utility or an electric cooperative. Oncor is a TDU. A TDU may also be referred to as a Transmission and Distribution Service Provider (TDSP). For additional information, refer to PUCT Substantive Rule §25.5(139).

Visible, Lockable, and Labeled AC Disconnect (VLLD)

A switch that allows the ability to isolate the customer's generation from the utility system. The VLLD is not a breaker. This type of switch (usually with a handle on the side) should have a visible air gap for a utility lineman to verify the alternate source of power is "open" and should be labeled in accordance with National Electrical Code (NEC) specifications (Alternate Power Source Disconnect). The preferred location of the VLLD is at or near the Oncor meter.