Net Energy Metering Aggregation overview
Net Energy Metering Aggregation (NEM2A)
Qualifications
Net Energy Metering Aggregation (NEM2A) allows a single customer with multiple meters on the same property, or on adjacent or contiguous properties, to use renewable generation (e.g. solar panels) to serve the aggregated load behind all eligible meters and receive the benefits of Net Energy Metering (NEM2). Criteria for NEM2A includes:
- There is no maximum generator size; however, the system must be sized to the customer’s recent annual load.
- Accounts have to be located on the same property as the renewable generator or on properties adjacent or contiguous to it.
- All of the properties have to be solely owned, leased or rented by the same customer of record who is listed on the PG&E bill.
- The same customer of record must be listed for each PG&E account.
How to Apply
Prior to interconnecting generation projects to PG&E's distribution system, an interconnection application must be submitted, including some or all of the following documents:
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PG&E Interconnection Portal provides PG&E with important customer, contractor and system equipment information about the project. |
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This form is only for an eligible customer applying under NEM 2 Aggregation. Download the Frequently Asked Questions document (PDF, 471 KB) for additional information to effectively manage a NEM 2 Aggregation (NEM2A) project. |
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Single-Line Diagram |
Single-line diagram shows applicable equipment (generating units, step-up transformers, auxiliary transformers, switches/disconnects and required protection devices/circuit breakers). |
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Form is required if a third party is to handle application process. This gives the third party (usually the contractor) temporary authorization to act on the customer's behalf and receive confidential customer information. The authorization is required for the third party to receive a copy of the customer's permission to operate. |
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Parcel Map |
A parcel map from the county will be required in order to confirm NEMA eligibility. The parcel map must include identification of meter locations, meter numbers, the generating account (indicated by a "G") and aggregate account (indicated by an "A"). Download a sample parcel map (PDF, 1.14 MB). |
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This spreadsheet will be required to ensure the accurate set up of a NEMA billing account. |
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Variance Request |
The customer or customer's contractor can request a variance from PG&E if the project is unable to meet the requirements described in the Distribution Interconnection Handbook and Greenbook. |
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Customer-Owned Telemetry or PG&E Installed Telemetry |
Project’s with a net generation capacity of 1MW or greater require telemetry per section J.5 of the Rule 21 tariff. PG&E is now offering interconnection customers the option of using their own telemetry solution using one of PG&E’s approved device or aggregator vendors. More information can be found in our intro/FAQ document on the Distribution Interconnection Handbook page. |
Once you submit the interconnection application online , PG&E will complete a land review to ensure the system is solely owned, leased or rented by the same customer of record who is listed on the PG&E bill. Next, PG&E will conduct an engineering review after the land review is completed.
Note: The customer should submit the single-line diagram as soon as possible, even before the system is built. This will allow PG&E's engineers to review the proposed system and, if necessary, request modifications, which may alter the total cost and interconnection timeline of the project.
The timeline for approval of an interconnection application depends on the completeness of the application and required NEM2A documentation. Download the generator interconnection process timeline (PDF 154 KB).
Attention: PG&E may not be able to interconnect a generator located in certain areas of San Francisco or Oakland. Download Secondary Networks (PDF 169 KB).
Interconnection Requirements
The following items are required in order for PG&E to issue written permission to operate a generating facility:
| Item Requested | Purpose | |
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Declarations Page of Homeowner's Insurance |
Document provides PG&E with information about the level of insurance coverage (if any). |
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Interconnection agreement form is a legal contract between PG&E and the customer outlining each party's responsibilities. |
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Signed-Off Building Permit |
Completed permit indicates that the finished project has been inspected and approved by the local building authority. |
Costs and Other Considerations
There is an interconnection application fee of $145 for all NEM2 programs sized at 1MW or less. However, it is important to note that potential upgrades to PG&E's grid may be required, and a customer may be required to pay for the system upgrade, depending on the type of upgrade in accordance with Electric Rule 21.