Distributed Energy Resources
Members who are interested in installing their own solar or wind system for interconnection must use NOVA Power Portal. Browse interconnection information, status of your projects, and information about installing your own renewable energy system.
FAQs about Solar
Q: Does TWEC offer any rebates or incentives for solar?
A: No. TWEC does not offer any rebates or incentives. However, the federal government does have a tax credit. Please be sure to visit with your tax accountant before you purchase to make sure you qualify.
Q: Does TWEC sell and install?
A: No. TWEC does not sell or install panels.
Q: How much will it cost?
A: Every situation and size can vary quite a bit. We recommend that you do your research and get multiple quotes.
Q: Do I need to contact TWEC before installing solar?
A: Yes. TWEC is here to answer questions and guide you through the process of interconnecting solar. Through NOVA, you can access the document library where you can see all of our requirements as well as sample contracts and rate schedules. TWEC requires an application and contract through NOVA that has to be approved and signed prior to interconnection.
Q: Will my solar system supply power during an outage?
A: No. Solar arrays need utility power to operate. They will shut down during a utility outage for safety so they do not back feed electricity onto the power lines. In order to have power during an outage with a solar array, a member would need to add a battery system with an inverter and a transfer switch or a generator.
Q: Will TWEC pay me for energy I produce with my solar array?
A: Yes. For systems under 40 kW, TWEC pays members the average retail cooperative energy rate per Minnesota statute. This is often called net metering. With net metering, whatever your system is interconnected with (for example, your home) will use the energy you produce first. If there is any excess energy produced, TWEC will pay you the average retail cooperative energy rate for those kWhs.
Q: If I have an energy credit for production, why do I still have an energy charge?
A: During sunny daytime hours you may be producing enough energy to cover your usage and then some. However, there are also many cloudy or nighttime hours when the solar system is not producing at all. During these times, you need the electric grid for power and that is the kWh charge you will see on your bill. You will probably see both a credit on your bill and a charge.
Statewide Solar Projects
View energy output from Great River Energy’s statewide solar projects here.
Wellspring Wind & Solar
Get your green on with Wellspring
The Wellspring renewable energy program offers Todd-Wadena Electric Cooperative members an opportunity to support wind and solar developments though the Wellspring Wind and Wellspring Solar programs. The renewable wind and solar energy is supplied by TWEC’s wholesale power supplier, Great River Energy.
Wellspring programs are voluntary and are available to all members. While the electricity that is delivered through TWEC to your home or business currently includes at least 25 percent renewable energy in the mix, the Wellspring program allows members the option to support expanded renewable development.
Here’s how it works:
- Members can purchase Wellspring energy in 100 kWh blocks.
- Wellspring Energy is purchased in 100 kWh blocks. 8 to 10 blocks is equivalent to an average home’s monthly electricity use.
- Cost for one 100 kWh wind block is $.30. One 100 kWh solar block is $2.00. Participating members pay an additional amount on their electric bill each month.
- You must remain on the program for at least 12 months.
- Wellspring is available to Commercial & Industrial members as well. Contact us to learn more.
