Distributed Energy Resources (DER)
Distributed Energy Resources (DER) are becoming increasingly popular among individuals and businesses. This includes items such as solar panels, wind turbines, EV chargers, battery storage systems, and more. InnPower Corporation connects Distributed Energy Resources to Ontario’s electricity grid.
DER Classification and Commissioning Process
Simplified Commissioning Requirements
We have clear, proportionate commissioning requirements based on the size of your project.
For small DERs, we offer a Simplified Commissioning Process, designed to reduce your cost and timeline.
· View Commissioning Requirements
· Download Simplified Commissioning Form (Appendix F)
If you believe your Distributed Energy Resource (DER) project may qualify for the simplified commissioning process, please contact our Engineering department at systemplanning@innpower.ca as part of your preliminary consultation.
Our team will review your project details and confirm whether it meets the eligibility criteria for the simplified process. Early engagement helps ensure a more efficient connection process and may reduce overall assessment timelines and costs.
Table 1: Simplified Commissioning Eligibility Criteria
Nameplate Capacity Size |
| 1. Single-phase DER (>10kW and < 30kW) |
| 2. Three-phase DER (>10kW and < 50kW) Connecting to a supply feeder with a voltage less than 15 kV |
| 3. Three-phase DER (>10kW and < 100kW) Connecting to a supply feeder with a voltage of 15 kV or greater |
Additional Criteria:
- The proposed DER must be inverter-based and not include any energy storage components (e.g. batteries)
- The proposed DER must not be connected to a restricted feeder
- The proposed DER must not require any upgrades and/or expansion of the existing InnPower distribution system
Please note, that InnPower may reclassify a Simplified CIA application to a Detailed CIA where the proposed DER does not meet the eligibility criteria in the OEB’s DER Connection Procedures, or where the LDC determines that the project may adversely affect system reliability, power quality, or safety. The Applicant will be notified if reclassification is required.
The Applicant understands that a positive result from a Simplified CIA does not constitute final authorization to connect. Final authorization is contingent upon execution of the required Connection Agreement(s), receipt of an Electrical Safety Authority Connection Authorization, and successful completion of all applicable commissioning and verification requirements in accordance with the OEB’s DER Connection Procedures and the LDC’s technical standards.
Timelines
Upon receiving a complete application, InnPower will comply with existing requirements to assess the impact of the proposed generation facility, prepare a detailed cost estimate, and issue an offer to connect. These steps will be completed within 30 days.
Standard Commissioning Requirements
Projects that do not qualify for the simplified commissioning process are assessed under the standard connection process. These projects are classified based on their size, voltage level, and potential impact on the distribution system.
Connection classifications—such as micro, small, mid-sized, or large generation facilities—help determine the technical studies, timelines, and regulatory requirements applicable to each project. This classification ensures that all Distributed Energy Resource (DER) connections are reviewed appropriately to maintain system safety, reliability, and efficiency. Below are the DER classification criteria:
Table 2: DER Classification Criteria and Additional Studies
DER Classification | Rating | Potential Studies for CIA | Simplified Commissioning Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
Micro | ≤ 10 kW | None | No. Separate process for Micro applications |
Small | (a) ≤ 500 kW connected on distribution system voltage < 15 kV (b) ≤ 1 MW connected on distribution system voltage ≥ 15 kV | 1. Distributor 2. Host Distributor (if applicable) | Potentially. Confirmation is required |
Mid-Sized | (a) ≤10 MW but > 500 kW connected on distribution system voltage < 15 kV (b) > 1 MW but ≤ 10 MW connected on distribution system voltage ≥ 15 kV | 1. Distributor 2. Host Distributor (if applicable) 3. Transmitter | No |
Large | > 10 MW | 1. Distributor 2. Host Distributor (if applicable) 3. Transmitter 4. IESO System Impact Assessment | No |
Please note the following:
· Site with multiple DERs: The nameplate rated capacity for a site calculated as the sum of the AC nameplate rated capacities of all DERs if they are not connected to the same inverter. If these DERs share the same inverter, the nameplate rated capacity for the site is determined by the AC nameplate rated capacity of the inverter.
· Site with derated equipment: The distributor shall accept statically derated capacity, achieved through configured power rating control, instead of the nameplate rated capacity, as detailed in Section 5.1. Transformers do not affect the capacity rating of a DER facility.
Timelines
Connection timelines depend on the size, complexity, and location of the Distributed Energy Resource (DER) project, as well as whether upstream assessments are required by a host distributor or transmitter. Smaller or less complex projects may follow a simplified process with shorter timelines, while larger or more complex projects—especially those requiring system upgrades or coordination with other utilities—may take longer to assess and approve. Your distributor will confirm applicable timelines during the application process.
DER Connection Procedures
The following outlines the eight key steps that customers must follow to complete the DER connection process. These steps reflect the Ontario Energy Board’s Distributed Energy Resources Connection Procedures and are designed to guide applicants from the initial consultation through to final connection and operation. Following each step carefully will help ensure a smooth and timely connection to the distribution system.
Step 1: Preliminary Consultation
The first step is for the Customer to submit a completed Preliminary Consultation Information Request (PCIR) form, which gathers basic information about the proposed project. After receiving a completed PCIR, InnPower will provide a Preliminary Consultation Report (PCR). The PCR identifies the feasibility of a connection based on the information provided in the PCIR and the distributor’s knowledge of available capacity at the proposed point of connection.
Please complete the applicable form and submit it by email to systemplanning@innpower.ca
Micro DER Project Applications:
Preliminary Consultation Information Request (PCIR) Form <10 KW
Small DER Projects Eligible for Simplified Commissioning Process: See section above
Small, Medium and Large DER Project Applications:
Preliminary Consultation Information Request (PCIR) Form >10 KW
Step 2: Connection Impact Assessment (CIA) Application
If the PCR identifies that there may be connection capacity, the next step is to complete and submit a Connection Impact Assessment (CIA) Application. Please refer to Table 2: DER Classification Criteria and Additional Studies to determine whether a CIA is required.
Payment must be submitted alongside the CIA Application.
Please complete the applicable form and submit it by email to systemplanning@innpower.ca
Micro DER Project Applications: CIA application not applicable
Small DER Projects Eligible for Simplified Commissioning Process: See section above
Small, Medium and Large DER Project Applications:
Connection Impact Assessment (CIA) Application
Step 3: Connection Impact Assessment (CIA)
In response to a successful CIA application (where the connection is deemed possible), InnPower will conduct a Connection Impact Assessment* and prepare a study providing the applicant with
- an assessment of the steady state and transient reliability and stability impacts of the project at a specific location on the distribution system
- the technical requirements for connection to the system
- an estimate of the cost to facilitate the connection
InnPower will reserve capacity on its own system for 180 days; pending a decision by the applicant on moving forward.
Flexible Hosting Capacity Arrangements
We offer Flexible Hosting Capacity Arrangements where full capacity is not available.
This arrangement allows DERs to be connected with operational flexibility (e.g., limited output during peak periods).
- Flexible hosting arrangements will be offered in compliance with section 6.2.4.1A of the Distribution System Code.
- These arrangements are reviewed during the CIA and consultation phases.
*Depending on the size of the project an additional CIA may be required by Hydro One, and/or a System Impact Assessment by the IESO may be necessary to assess upstream system impacts.
** Applicants are cautioned that completion of a CIA does not constitute approval of the protection philosophy and single line diagram (SLD) by the distributor. The protection philosophy and SLD will be subject to distributor review after the CIA has been issued. Please refer to the “Additional Resources” section below to reference examples of these two documents.
Step 4: Connection Cost Agreement
As noted in step 3, the CIA will include an estimate of the anticipated connection costs. Upon receipt of the CIA, an applicant for a mid-sized or large generation facility has the option to request a detailed cost estimate from the distributor prior to entering into a Connection Cost Agreement. To obtain a detailed cost estimate, the applicant must make a written request.
We will provide you with a Connection Cost Agreement specifying the scope of work to be performed either by you, your contractors or InnPower, to make the generation connection. If you decide to proceed with the project, you must sign the Connection Cost Agreement and make the required payments.
Step 5: Design and Build
After the Cost Connect Agreement is signed and payment is made, construction drawings must be finalized. InnPower will perform the work required to make the connection. You or your contractor must complete the construction of the generation facility and then apply to the Electrical Safety Authority for an electrical inspection. You must submit final detailed design documents to InnPower for review.
Step 6: Commissioning
The Applicant is required to complete and submit a Commissioning Plan to the distributor.
Step 7: Connection Agreement
You will need to complete and submit the Connection Agreement prior to energization. A Connection Agreement between a distributor and a generator contains specific terms and conditions relating to connection and access to the distributor’s distribution system.
Below are templates of the connection agreements that will be signed prior to energization. InnPower will include details specific to your project.
Micro DER Project Applications:
Micro-Embedded Connection Agreement
Small DER Projects Eligible for Simplified Commissioning Process: See section above
Small and Medium DER Project Applications:
Small to Mid Connection Agreement
Large DER Project Applications: Please contact InnPower
Step 8: Connect and Energize
After the Electrical Safety Authority provides the electrical inspection “Connection Authorization” directly to InnPower, the generation facility will be connected to InnPower Corporation’s distribution system.
Click Here to View the Full Connection Procedure
DER Fee Schedule
We are committed to transparency in timelines and fees. Here’s what you can expect:
Cost Estimates:
- Standard CIA includes cost estimate for the proposed connection.
- For more detailed estimates, you may request a Detailed Cost Estimate Agreement (fees may apply).
- View Our Fee Schedule
| Size | Distributor Connection Impact Assessment Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
|
Simplified Application |
|
|
Single-phase DER (>10kW and < 30kW) |
Please contact distributor |
|
Three-phase DER (>10kW and < 50kW) Connecting to a supply feeder with a voltage less than 15 kV |
Please contact distributor |
|
Three-phase DER (>10kW and < 100kW) Connecting to a supply feeder with a voltage of 15 kV or greater |
Please contact distributor |
|
Standard Application |
|
|
Up to 100 kW |
Please contact distributor |
|
Up to 1 MW |
Please contact distributor |
|
Up to 5 MW |
Please contact distributor |
|
Above 5 MW |
Please contact distributor |
|
Date reviewed and updated |
Please contact distributor |
Restricted Feeders
We maintain a list of feeders with limited or no capacity for new DER connections due to system constraints.
- View Current Restricted Feeder List
- This list is updated at least every 3 months.
- If you would like to be notified when feeder availability changes please contact System Planning systemplanning@innpower.ca
Additional Resources
Protection Philosophy
The Sample Protection Philosophy document below is a summary of a sample protection philosophy for non-exporting, inverter-based (NE/I) connections including storage, solar, and wind.
(Note: Other philosophies may also meet the standards.)
Sample Protection Philosophy pdf.
This document serves as a guide for applicants regarding the kinds of protections, and particularly the categories of protections, that distributors will require for connection.
To form a protection scheme, all the elements for each category within any given protection philosophy are required.
This document is not an approval for connection.
This information should help applicants file complete applications for connection.
An applicant will need to submit detailed protection settings after the utility has completed the impact assessment of the submitted connection application.
Sample Single Line Diagram
The link below provides a sample Single Line Diagram (SLD) to assist applicants in preparing their own SLD as part of the Distributed Energy Resource (DER) connection application.
Sample Single Line Diagram pdf.
This sample is intended to illustrate the typical layout and level of detail expected by the distributor. Applicants should use it as a reference to ensure their submitted diagram accurately reflects the electrical configuration of the proposed DER system, including all major components, protection devices, and points of connection to the distribution system.
More Information
For more information on the requirements for connection of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) by licensed electricity distributors, please visit Distributed Energy Resources (DER) Connections Review | Ontario Energy Board (oeb.ca)
Contact Us
Engineering Dept - Distributed Energy Resources
7251 Yonge St
Innisfil, ON L9S 0J3
P: (705) 431-4321
E: systemplanning@innpower.ca