Distributed Energy Resources
If you are a BEC member and are considering installing a distributed generation system for your home, such as a solar power system, storage, or a backup generator, here is how it works:
Members requesting installation of a distributed generation (DG) system, and connection to the BEC grid, should read the BEC Distributed Generation Tariff sections 340 to 345, 202.7, 701.6, and 703.1. These sections outline the responsibilities of the cooperative and the member. Please download the DG manual for all interconnection agreements.
BEC Solar Guide for Members
Watch our solar informational guide for members to learn about BEC’s Energy Saver Program to make sure your home is efficient before going solar, the process and cost associated with grid interconnection, and more.
Application for Interconnection
Members requesting DG interconnection shall complete and sign the DG application below and pay the application fee as outlined in the Distributed Generation Tariff. Members should email the completed application to our DG Applications mailbox.
Every DG installation connected to BEC Electric system shall complete/sign an Interconnect Agreement/Contract. Members with DG systems smaller than 50KW will use the short form Interconnect contract. Systems larger or equal to 50KW shall use long form contract. All interconnect agreements shall complete Description of Facilities (Exhibit A).
- BEC/Member DG Application and Agreement (Under 50kW)
- BEC/Member DG Application and Agreement (Over 50kW) (PDF)
Each BEC member has a remotely monitored meter that records the flow of electricity to and from our lines and your home to monitor your consumption and production. BEC now requires additional metering and BEC Apolloware© Software to monitor DG production. This allows BEC to determine the effects of DG systems on the electrical system.
How You Are Billed
It’s simple really. If you use more electricity than your solar or wind system generates during the most recent billing cycle, you will be billed for the amount purchased from BEC, but if you generate more electricity than you use, BEC will use the wholesale generation rate to calculate the difference and you will see the credit on your next statement.
At Bandera Electric, we can assist you with making the right decision when it comes to solar or wind energy. Unfortunately, many of our members have been misled about some of the financial benefits associated with renewables. So, before you start any installation, call us at (830) 331-4500 to speak with someone in our Energy Services Department or use our online contact form.
Large Solar and Energy Storage Projects in Texas
Large solar and energy storage projects are typically defined as those 10 megawatts or larger. These projects interconnect with the transmission grid and the project owners sell power directly to the electric grid after being approved by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT).
Note: BEC does not have any oversight or approval authority associated with these projects. ERCOT and The Public Utility Commission of Texas have the oversight and approval authority.
To learn about Large Scale Solar installations and BEC’s role, please review our FAQ below.
Large Scale Solar FAQs
- Large solar and energy storage projects are typically defined as those 10 megawatts or larger. These projects interconnect with the transmission grid and the project owners sell power directly to the electric grid after being approved by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT).
- Note: BEC does not have any oversight or approval authority associated with these projects. ERCOT and the Public Utility Commission of Texas have the oversight and approval authority.
- Once the projects are approved by ERCOT, the project owner is now a generator of energy and a customer of transmission service to the ERCOT grid. PUCT governs this process. Read the full rules here.
- BEC is a distribution utility that owns and operates a distribution system connecting the transmission grid to the retail electric member.
- BEC has no role in deciding where and when to site utility-scale solar systems.
- BEC is required by law to interconnect the system once approved by ERCOT.
- The location and size of these projects are influenced by several factors including property cost, terrain, and market prices.
- Ultimately, the decision to build is one of economics, and if feasible the projects must be reviewed and approved by ERCOT.
- BEC has no role in determining or influencing the site selection.
- Once a project is sized and the site is selected, it must register with ERCOT.
- The planning, design and interconnection of these projects are driven by requirements provided by ERCOT and a process that is outlined by the PUCT.
- One of the requirements is that the project owner must also conduct a Full Interconnection Study to analyze the impact on the transmission system, and includes the identification and location of an interconnection point and substation.
- The land acquisition, either through purchase or lease, must be performed by the project owner.
- All of the necessary interconnection facilities will be built, designed, operated, and maintained by the project owner.
- All costs are shouldered by the project owner.
BEC Solar Contractors Guide
Watch our informational guide for BEC Solar contractors to learn about BEC’s process for grid interconnection, Apolloware requirements for solar installations, disconnection locations, pole attachment restrictions, easements, and more.