SB 580

This bill imposes requirements on the interconnection of certain distributed

generation facilities (DGFs) to the electric distribution systems of electric public

utilities that own or operate such systems. The bill applies to a DGF as defined under

current law, which is as an electricity-generating facility with a capacity of no more

than 15 megawatts and that is located either 1) at or near the point where the

electricity will be used or 2) in a location that will support the functioning of the

electric power distribution grid. The bill prohibits a utility customer from

interconnecting a DGF to the utility's distribution system after the bill's effective

date unless the customer does three things. First, the customer must install a

disconnection device for the DGF that is specified by the utility in accordance with

rules the Public Service Commission has promulgated under current law. The bill

defines "disconnection device" as a device capable of disconnecting a DGF from an

electric distribution system. Second, the disconnection device must be installed in

a conspicuous location that is accessible to the utility's maintenance personnel.

However, this second requirement does not apply if the disconnection device is

automatically enabled when a power outage occurs. Third, the customer must notify

the utility of the location of the DGF and disconnection device.

If a customer has interconnected a DGF to a utility's electric distribution

system before the bill's effective date, the bill requires the customer to attach a

permanent placard to the the customer's electric meter that identifies the location

of the disconnection device for the DGF. Also, the customer must notify the utility

of the location of the DGF and the disconnection device. The bill requires a customer

to make the attachment and notification within approximately six months after the

bill's effective date.