Connecting small electricity producers to the grid

South Dakota’s Public Utilities Commission (PUC) approved new state rules on May 28, 2009 to simplify interconnection standards for the state. ELPC staff worked closely with PUC and provided technical expertise and advice to create the new standards. These standards will help small generators-such as small wind projects-connect to the electric grid and create a consistent statewide process for renewable energy regulations.

The new rules must still be approved by a legislative committee before becoming final. Read press coverage about the new rules here.

ELPC also continues to work with South Dakota allies to implement and promote the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). South Dakota has terrific wind and biomass resources and tremendous opportunity to develop exciting new projects on farms and ranches and in rural communities across the state.

Wind Power Development in South Dakota

Wind energy is the fastest growing source of electricity generation in the United States. According to a recent ELPC report, South Dakota’s available wind resources are among the best in the country. South Dakota officials have expressed strong interest in promoting wind energy, but, thus far, little of this potential has been realized. As of January 2008, there are about 4,000 megawatts of wind power under development in South Dakota, but only 188 megawatts of wind energy have been installed. ELPC’s report explains that South Dakota can become a renewable energy powerhouse and identifies important policy drivers that can help to more fully tap these clean energy resources. Download the report here [large pdf file].