Small, Mid-Sized and Large DER Connections

The next step for a small, mid-sized or large DER connection, is the Connection Impact Assessment (CIA). A CIA is a more detailed assessment of the project and its feasibility, technical specifications needed and any potential impacts the project could have on the distribution grid. Additional studies may also be required and will be noted in the PCR response.

Service Type*Connection Impact Assessment Charge (CIA)
≤ 10kW ‐ Parallel operation with Elexicon system
Not required
>10kW ‐ Parallel operation with Elexicon system
$5,000

*Please note that for Generators that exceed 500kW of nameplate capacity, a CIA may also be required by the transmitter (Hydro One) and all associated costs will be borne by the DER applicant, which will be in excess of the costs shown here.

The CIA application package includes:

 

As these projects are in excess of 10 kW, all technical documents, including the CIA form, must be signed and sealed by a licensed Ontario Professional Engineer.

Once we receive the CIA application package, we will review within 14 days to ensure it is complete and, if complete, confirm whether the capacity that was available at the PCR stage is still available (note: capacity is not reserved until the CIA is completed). This also starts the timeframe for our completion of the CIA within:

DER SizeTiming
Small
60 days where distribution system reinforcement or expansion is not required

90 days where distribution system reinforcement or expansion is required
Mid-Sized
60 days
+ 15 days if another distributor CIA is required
Large
(Also require a System Impact Assessment to determine any impact on the IESO-administered grid)
90 days
+ 15 days if another distributor CIA is required

After capacity has been confirmed and the CIA process is complete, the process then moves to the connection agreement phase. The agreements required includes:

  • The Connection Agreement, which includes specific terms and conditions relating to connection and access to a distributor’s distribution system. For small and mid-sized generators, this agreement is in a form required by the Ontario Energy Board.
  • A Connection Cost Agreement (CCA), which which sets out the scope of the work and an estimate of the costs to connect the project to the distribution system. If the project also requires transmission work, Elexicon will include the costs of this work in its CCA and pay these costs to the transmitter.

Once the CCA and payment have been received, Elexicon will begin the work required to connect the DER. At the same time, you or your contractor can proceed with the construction of the DER facility.

When construction is complete, you will need to apply for a connection authorization from the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). You will also need to submit final detailed design documents to Elexion for review as well as the completed and signed Connection Agreement. Once we receive the ESA authorization, Elexicon will arrange for an inspection and connection of the DER to our distribution system.