Topic:"Rate Design" in M03666

November 1, 2010 Nancy McNeil Regulatory Affairs Officer/Clerk Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board 1601 Lower Water Street, 3 rd Floor P.O. Box 1692, Unit "M" Halifax, NS B3J 3S3 Re: Electricity Act , R.S.N.S., amended 2010, c. 14, s. 3;...

AI summary Nova Scotia Power Inc. (NSPI) is proposing an amended Regulation 3.6 to enhance its Net Metering Service in compliance with recent legislative changes to the Electricity Act. The application includes stakeholder consultations and requests a 90-day period for implementation after Board approval.

Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board IN THE MATTER OF The Public Utilities Act, R.S.N.S. 1989, c.380, as amended - and - IN THE MATTER OF Electricity Act, R.S.N.S., amended 2010, c. 14 ; Proposed Enhancements to NSPI's Net Metering Service...

AI summary This document outlines a regulatory proceeding under the Public Utilities Act and the Electricity Act, concerning proposed enhancements to NSPI's Net Metering Service, specifically Regulation 3.6.

31 1 1.0 STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS 29 utility to comply with the requirements of any enactment 30 regulating emissions, but for no other purpose; 31 (c) the capacity of the customer's generator be sized to meet the 32 expected annual consumpt...

AI summary The text outlines statutory requirements for utilities, including compliance with emission regulations and generator capacity sizing. It also describes the process for approving programs, specifically an enhanced net metering service, developed by Nova Scotia Power Inc. (NSPI) with guiding principles emphasizing compliance, renewable energy, and transparency.

1 6.0 CONCLUSION 2 3 Pursuant to its statutory obligation, NSPI herewith submits a revised draft 4 Regulation 3.6 proposing the enhancements to its existing Net Metering service. 5 NSPI submits that these changes are consistent with the re...

AI summary NSPI submits a revised draft of Regulation 3.6 to enhance its Net Metering service, aligning with the Amended Electricity Act . The changes are prompted by legislative updates requiring amendments to an existing UARB-approved regulation. NSPI conducted stakeholder consultation and requests a paper hearing process and a 90-day period before the regulation becomes effective.

3.6 NET METERING SERVICE h) NSPI will be the sole beneficiary of any emission credits or allowances arising from the use of renewable energy sources to generate power in connection with a net metering installation.

AI summary NSPI will be the sole beneficiary of any emission credits or allowances generated from renewable energy used in net metering installations.

3.6.5 Metering - a) Net energy metering shall ordinarily be accomplished using a single meter capable of registering the flow of electricity in two directions as approved by Measurement Canada. If the eligible customer-generator's existing...

AI summary The section outlines requirements for net energy metering, specifying that a single bidirectional meter is preferred, approved by Measurement Canada. If not feasible, separate meters may be required at the customer's expense.

3.6.3 Applicability The service is applicable to any metered electric service accounts which are electrically connected to the same NSPI Distribution Zone as the generator, and which are owned by the same customer.

AI summary The service is applicable to metered electric service accounts connected to the same NSPI Distribution Zone as the generator and owned by the same customer.

3.6.4 Billing - a) Customer-generators will be billed under the otherwise-applicable metered rate schedules. - b) If in a given billing period the electricity supplied to NSPI's grid by the customergenerator exceeds that supplied to the cu...

AI summary This section outlines the billing procedures for customer-generators connected to NSPI's grid. It details how excess self-generation is banked as energy credits, applied to future bills, and how net purchased energy requirements are calculated. Energy credits are carried over until the customer's annual anniversary date, with compensation based on the applicable retail rate.

3.6.6 Special Conditions - a) Special conditions in this regulation do not supersede, modify or nullify special conditions accompanying the otherwise-applicable metered rate schedules. - b) A Qualifying generating facility must meet the fo...

AI summary This section outlines special conditions for Net Metering service, including requirements for qualifying generating facilities, location constraints, compliance with safety standards, and responsibilities of the customer-generator. It also mentions grandfathering for existing net metering customers.

3.6.3.2 Customer For the purpose of the Net Metering regulation "customer" is defined as a single legal entity. Deleted: n Deleted: m

AI summary The Net Metering regulation defines a 'customer' as a single legal entity. Certain text has been deleted from the original document.

3.6 NET METERING SERVICE Demand Side Cost Recover Rider charges. The customer-generator will set a permanent annual anniversary date at the time of subscription to the Net Metering service. No changes to the annual anniversary date will be...

AI summary The Net Metering Service outlines rules for managing energy credits, including the setting of an annual anniversary date, handling of surplus generation across multiple accounts, and the allocation of environmental credits. Customers must propose a method for surplus generation apportionment, which NSPI may approve.

3.6.6 S pecial Conditions - a) Special conditions in this regulation do not supersede, modify or nullify special conditions accompanying the otherwise-applicable metered rate schedules. - b) A Qualifying generating facility must meet the f...

AI summary This section outlines special conditions for Net Metering electric service, including requirements for Qualifying generating facilities, location constraints, and customer responsibilities. It also mentions grandfathering for existing net metering customers and deleted content related to metering systems and ownership proof.

Comments Received from Appleseed Energy Original Message From: brian [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Friday, October 15, 2010 11:41 AM To: [email protected] Cc: Ross & Gail; Dana Morin Subject: Appleseed Energy Hello, I have a bu...

AI summary Appleseed Energy expresses support for some proposed changes to Nova Scotia's net-metering program, such as the ability to apply credit to other meters and compensation for surplus credits. However, they are concerned that the program, in its current and proposed forms, does not adequately address the high costs of small-scale power production equipment, which limits the sector's growth potential.

We also provided a paper copy of the draft revised Regulation 3.6 (NSPI's existing Net Metering regulation, with the changes that would be made to make it compliant with the Amended Electricity Act.) We wanted to offer you the same opportu...

AI summary The document discusses the draft revised Regulation 3.6, which updates NSPI's Net Metering regulation to align with the Amended Electricity Act. Comments are requested by October 15 to be included in a filing to the UARB by November 1.

Alison Alison Gillan Manager, Open Access Transmission Control Centre Operations Nova Scotia Power (902) 428-7719 [email protected] From: Emily Tipton [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, October 14, 2010 11:0...

AI summary Emily Tipton, Sustainable Development Coordinator for the Municipality of the District of Shelburne, inquires about proposed changes to net metering service under the amended Electricity Act. Elisa Obermann of the Nova Scotia Department of Energy receives comments regarding these changes, emphasizing the importance of net metering for renewable energy generation on farms.

Larry Larry Wilkens P.Eng. Natural Resources Canada Energy Technology Applications Group 613-947-3519 From: GILLAN, ALISON [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: October 20, 2010 12:09 To: Wilkens, Larry Cc: MYATT, LANA; GODBOUT, NICOLE S...

AI summary Alison Gillan from NSPI is sending Larry Wilkens three documents regarding proposed changes to NSPI's net metering program, including the Amended Electricity Act, a summary of proposed changes, and redline text of the existing regulation. The enhanced net metering program must be filed with the UARB by November 1, and the regulatory process is still uncertain.

Comments received from Seaforth Energy, Seaforth Engineering, Eon Wind Electric Original Message From: Jonathan Barry [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, October 13, 2010 4:15 PM To: GILLAN, ALISON Cc: [email protected]; 'd...

AI summary Seaforth Energy, Seaforth Engineering, and Eon Wind Electric provide feedback on NSPI's Enhanced Net Metering program, suggesting the removal of distribution zone and sizing limits to promote adoption, and advocating for the rate paid for net metering to be the top retail price or subject to FITs.

Enhanced Net Metering Regulation 3.6 NSPI Responses to Stakeholder Input on draft Regulation 3.6 November 1, 2010 1 Stakeholder Appleseed Energy Suggestions/Comments I would like to ask what the limits or restrictions on the compensation w...

AI summary Appleseed Energy and Minas Basin Pulp & Power expressed concerns about the Enhanced Net Metering Regulation 3.6. Appleseed Energy questioned the compensation limits and argued that the program does not adequately support small-scale production due to high costs. Minas Basin Pulp & Power objected to a regulation requiring generators to meet total annual consumption, arguing it should allow partial offsetting. NSPI responded that the regulation aligns with the Electricity Act and that partial service is permitted.

3 Stakeholder Minas Basin Pulp & Power Suggestions/Comments Green electricity has a value that exceeds the value of conventional electricity, but the Net Metering program only pays for this green electricity at conventional electricity rat...

AI summary Minas Basin Pulp & Power argues that the Net Metering program undervalues green electricity, leading to low participation due to lower prices and higher installation costs. NSPI responds that the program's purpose is to offset consumption, not generate profit, and suggests alternative opportunities for selling electricity.

4 Stakeholder Minas Basin Pulp & Power Suggestions/Comments The definition of electricity comprises both energy and demand, which means the value of electricity should include both the value of the energy, and the value of the demand, yet...

AI summary Minas Basin Pulp & Power suggests that electricity compensation should include both energy and demand values, proposing a demand value based on the IRP assumed capacity factor. NSPI argues that net metering is a billing service not subject to separate pricing. MEUSNC suggests surplus generation compensation should reflect DCRR charges, but NSPI states DCRR funds are not available for this purpose.

\ \ The general service area is a summary and does not describe all areas served. 1 Request IR-2: 27 for net metering will both vary to some degree from year to year)? 28 29 Response IR-2: 30 31 (a) A customer's expected annual consumption...

AI summary The text outlines the process for determining a customer's expected annual consumption for net metering and the criteria for evaluating the size of a customer's generation device. NSPI proposes two classes of service for net metering customers based on generator size.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 Request IR-3: 2 3 With respect to Section 4, Payment for Annual Excess Self-Generation, please provide the 4 following for each rate class in which customers could potentially qualify for net metering 5 under the propose...

AI summary The document requests information on energy charges, demand charges, and appropriate retail rates for surplus energy under proposed Regulation 3.6. It includes details on current charges, such as base fuel costs, non-fuel charges, AA, BA, and DCRR charges for residential tariffs.

NSPI's pricing proposal includes the following: - In any rate class where there is a single energy charge, the rate paid for excess generation will be that energy charge. - In any rate class where there are declining block energy charges,...

AI summary NSPI's pricing proposal outlines how excess generation is compensated across different rate classes, distinguishing between single energy charge and declining block energy charge classes. The proposal excludes Energy Efficiency charges from compensation for excess generation and includes FAM charges. While there may be inconsistencies, the proposal is supported for its simplicity and applicability to small energy amounts.

Jeff Larsen Direct +1 (902) 444 8613 [email protected] Purdy's Wharf Tower II 1300-1969 Upper Water Street PO Box 730 Halifax NS Canada B3J 2V1 Tel +1 (902) 425 6500 I Fax +1 (902) 425 6350 February 9, 2011 Nancy McNeil Regulat...

AI summary Halifax Regional Water Commission (HRWC) submits comments to the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board regarding proposed amendments to Nova Scotia Power Inc.'s Net Metering Regulation. HRWC argues that the definition of 'distribution zone' is too narrow, the 20MW cap is overly restrictive, and there is insufficient evidence to justify the transfer of emission credits and allowances.

ple defined distribution zones; so long as it permits customers to have multiple meters under one account within a defined distribution zone, this would also be consistent with the statutory language. Despite the permissiveness of the Amen...

AI summary The document discusses the definition of distribution zones and how NSPI's narrow interpretation limits the effectiveness of aggregated net metering. HRWC argues that the Draft Regulation may not meet its objective of increasing customer uptake of net metering, as NSPI has not provided studies to support its approach.

2. 20MWCap The Draft Regulation includes a maximum capacity allocation of 20 MW to net metered customers. The Amendments do not suggest or require that NSPI include such a cap. HRWC respectfully submits that a cap of 20MW (about 1% of maxi...

AI summary HRWC argues that the 20 MW cap on net metered customers in the Draft Regulation is overly restrictive and lacks supporting evidence. They request the Board to direct NSPI to remove the cap until sufficient evidence is provided.

3. Assignment ofEmission Credits and Allowances The Amendments require that as a condition of participation in net metering, the customer transfer or assign all emission credits or allowances arising from the use of renewable energy source...

AI summary The Amendments require net metering customers to transfer emission credits or allowances to NSPI for compliance with emissions regulations. HRWC argues that these credits would not help NSPI meet its obligations under the Greenhouse Gas Regulations, suggesting they should not be assigned to NSPI.

Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board IN THE MATTER OF The Public Utilities Act, R.S.N.S. 1989, c.380, as amended - and - IN THE MATTER OF Electricity Act, R.S.N.S., amended 2010, c. 14 ; Proposed Enhancements to NSPI's Net Metering Service...

AI summary This document pertains to a regulatory proceeding under the Public Utilities Act and the Electricity Act, concerning proposed enhancements to NSPI's Net Metering Service under Regulation 3.6.

Net Metering Service, Regulation 3.6 Reply Submission February 23, 2011 NON - CONFIDENTIAL

AI summary This document is a non-confidential reply submission related to the Net Metering Service under Regulation 3.6, dated February 23, 2011. It does not contain specific details or arguments at this point.

HRWC written submission, February 9, 2011, page 3. 1 distribution zone as the net metered generator, are not offset and do not 2 qualify for net metering. Section 3A (1) of the Act reads: 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 3A (1) A public utility may develop a...

AI summary The submission discusses the interpretation of Section 3A of the Electricity Act, focusing on net metering provisions. It argues that the wording does not support allowing net meters in other distribution zones if multiple meters are under one account within a defined zone, emphasizing clarity in the Act's language.

Community Projects: Fixed Price To encourage a range of projects widely dispersed throughout the province, this plan establishes a community-based feed-in tariff (COMFIT) for an expected 100 megawatts of renewable electricity projects conn...

AI summary This plan introduces a community-based feed-in tariff (COMFIT) to support the development of 100 megawatts of renewable electricity projects connected at the distribution level, along with programs to assist community groups with technical, financial, and regulatory requirements.

Solar: Heat + Water Focus Solar will qualify as a renewable resource under the enhanced net metering program. Today, solar is used more economically for air and water heating rather than electricity generation. Its role may expand as the c...

AI summary Solar is currently more economically viable for air and water heating than electricity generation under the enhanced net metering program. Its potential role in electricity generation may grow as solar technology costs change over time.

Meeting the 2015 Commitment 4 Meeting the 2015 commitment for 25% renewable electricity supply, will be challenging, but it is achievable. We will use the following tools and mechanisms to get us there: - Large-scale, community-based, and...

AI summary The document outlines strategies to meet the 2015 commitment of 25% renewable electricity supply in Nova Scotia. It includes large-scale projects by NSPI, competitive bids for independent producers, a Feed-In Tariff for small community projects, and an enhanced net metering program for businesses and homeowners.

2. Community-Based Feed-In Tariff Small-scale producers typically cannot compete successfully against much larger developers in a competitive bidding process. More than 45 jurisdictions around the world, including Spain, Germany, Ontario,...

AI summary The Community-Based Feed-In Tariff (COMFIT) aims to support small-scale and community-owned renewable energy projects by allowing municipalities, First Nations, co-operatives, and non-profit groups to participate. Projects will be connected at the distribution level, typically under 2 MW, and the program will be reviewed in 2012 to ensure it meets its 100 MW goal.

3. Enhanced Net Metering Net metering is a program that lets a consumer connect a small renewable electricity source to the grid through a special meter that measures electricity flows in two directions. For any electricity fed into the gr...

AI summary The document outlines an enhanced net metering program by NSPI, increasing power limits from 100 kW to 1 MW, allowing multiple meters under one account, and providing payment for surplus electricity at the retail class rate. This aims to support more consumers and businesses in generating renewable energy.

Utility and Review Board (UARB) The UARB already has responsibility for approving cost recovery for renewable energy projects through the setting of electricity rates. Under the Renewable Electricity Plan, it will take on responsibility fo...

AI summary The Utility and Review Board (UARB) is responsible for approving cost recovery for renewable energy projects through electricity rates. It will also set and periodically review FIT rates under the Renewable Electricity Plan, based on government-established criteria.

Facilitation We expect the Community-Based Feed-in Tariff (COMFIT) to attract participants who need support developing renewable energy projects.A sustainable energy planning group will be established by government to help develop communit...

AI summary The Community-Based Feed-in Tariff (COMFIT) is expected to attract participants requiring support for renewable energy projects. A government-established sustainable energy planning group will coordinate efforts across various departments and organizations to assist with project development, regulatory approvals, and financing guidance.

Financing Renewable energy projects usually require a large infusion of upfront capital,with the expectation of long-term,stable returns. Many of the organizations eligible for COMFITs lack experience acquiring this kind of financing. The...

AI summary Renewable energy projects require significant upfront capital and long-term returns. Many COMFIT-eligible organizations lack experience with this type of financing. The province plans to develop financing tools, such as CEDIFs, to support community-based renewable energy projects.

Smart Technologies A smart grid delivers electricity using digital technology to manage a customer's energy use. For example, a smart grid could turn on domestic hot water heaters only at night, when demand is slack and the cost of produci...

AI summary The document discusses the implementation of smart grid technologies in Nova Scotia, including the use of digital systems to manage customer energy use and the integration of smart grids with renewable resources. NSPI will use a federal grant to test these technologies and study their impact on customer behavior and load management.

Things This Plan Does Not Do 9 Planning involves choices, and in developing this Renewable Electricity Plan, the government has chosen not to do several things. The province has decided to maintain a regulated electricity marketplace and n...

AI summary The Renewable Electricity Plan outlines decisions not to open the electricity market to competition, allow independent producers to build all large-scale projects, or extend COMFIT to larger projects. It also notes the absence of a solar COMFIT and acknowledges the potential for solar energy in the future.

Costs and Benefits he transition from imported fuels to renewable electricity and cleaner local fuels will increase power bills in the short term, but offer lower and more stable rates in the long run. Not making this transition would shac...

AI summary The transition to renewable energy and cleaner fuels will increase power bills in the short term but offer more stable and lower rates long-term. Nova Scotia Power Inc. (NSPI) highlights that the share of fuel costs in its overall expenses is rising, as is the cost of controlling emissions from coal-fired plants. Government estimates suggest a 1-2% annual increase in electricity bills due to this plan, with potential offsets from energy efficiency and demand-side management programs.

The Plan The Renewable Electricity Plan sets out a detailed path for achieving the target of 25% renewable electricity supply by 2015 and establishes an ambitious goal for 2020 to have 40% of Nova Scotia's electricity supply (sales) produc...

AI summary The Renewable Electricity Plan outlines a path to achieve 25% renewable electricity supply by 2015 and 40% by 2020. It includes initiatives such as net metering, community-based feed-in tariffs (COMFIT), and support for tidal projects.

18-Month Review The Renewable Electricity Plan provides new programs and opportunities for Nova Scotia. Electrical grid technical limits are being pushed; communities will soon be exploring the challenge of moving from being interested in...

AI summary The 18-Month Review of the Renewable Electricity Plan highlights the government's commitment to evaluating the COMFIT program's effectiveness in supporting renewable electricity development and community-based projects. The review will assess progress toward the 25% renewable electricity supply target by 2015 and the program's success in promoting diverse energy solutions.

Transitional Issues Projects that are currently connected (as of the date of the proclamation of the Electricity Act amendments) as part of the NSPI Net Metering Program will qualify for the provisions of the Enhanced Net Metering Program....

AI summary Projects currently connected under the NSPI Net Metering Program will qualify for the Enhanced Net Metering Program. However, they will not be eligible for the COMFIT program, which aims to promote new renewable electricity sources.

Community-based Feedin Tariff (COMFIT) and Developmental Tidal Rate

AI summary The document introduces the Community-based Feedin Tariff (COMFIT) and Developmental Tidal Rate, which are mechanisms aimed at promoting renewable energy development in Nova Scotia, particularly in community and industrial contexts.

Who qualifies to participate? Projects qualifying for the COMFIT must be owned by one or a combination of the following entities: Municipality or wholly-owned subsidiary of that municipality: The project must be located within the boundari...

AI summary The COMFIT program is available to projects owned by municipalities, Mi'kmaq band councils, co-operatives, or not-for-profit organizations that meet specific residency and location criteria.

e 'x' and your project is expected to last for 20 years potentially with annual operating costs of 'y' while your annual revenue is 'z', does all this add up to a surplus (profit) or a deficit (loss)? Community/public engagement: Community...

AI summary The text outlines the importance of community and Aboriginal engagement for renewable electricity projects in Nova Scotia. It emphasizes the need for early community support, including municipal resolutions and letters of support, and highlights the necessity of engaging Mi'kmaq communities to address potential concerns and interests.

COMFIT Payment Fixed prices for qualifying COMFIT technologies and classes will be set through a process conducted by the UARB beginning this fall and ending with a hearing in mid to late winter. During this process, the UARB will evaluate...

AI summary The UARB will set fixed prices for qualifying COMFIT technologies through a process beginning this fall, ending with a hearing in mid to late winter. The UARB will consider various costs, including depreciation, labor, overheads, and return on investment, based on evidence and stakeholder input.

COMFIT Payment Differentiation COMFIT rates will be differentiated by technology type and in some cases, project size to ensure that policy objectives of the Renewable Electricity Plan are addressed appropriately. Establishing individual r...

AI summary COMFIT rates will be differentiated by technology type and project size to support the Renewable Electricity Plan. Wind and tidal projects have different rate categories, with developmental tidal arrays receiving a special FIT rate based on their costs, excluding government-funded or interconnection expenses.

COMFIT There was broad support for the COMFIT program and tools to support community-based projects. Several perspectives were presented on how "community" should be defined in order to qualify for the COMFIT. Suggestions ranged from very...

AI summary The COMFIT program received broad support but faced discussions on defining 'community' and expanding technology inclusion. While community involvement was emphasized, broader technology inclusion and business access were not accepted due to cost and capacity concerns.

NOVA SCOTIA POWER INC. REGULATION 3.6 - NET METERING BEFORE: Peter W. Gurnham, Q.C., Chair

AI summary The document outlines a regulatory proceeding concerning Nova Scotia Power Inc.'s Regulation 3.6 on Net Metering, with Peter W. Gurnham, Q.C., serving as the presiding chair.

ORDER WHEREAS Nova Scotia Power Incorporated ("NSPI") applied to the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board (the "Board") for approval to amend Regulation 3.6 - Net Metering by enhancing its net metering service, in compliance with recent le...

AI summary Nova Scotia Power Incorporated applied to amend Regulation 3.6 - Net Metering to expand customer capacity and payment for annual excess generation. The Board has set a schedule for information requests, responses, and written submissions in the proceeding.

NOVA SCOTIA UTILITY AND REVIEW BOARD IN THE MATTER OF THE PUBLIC UTILITIES ACT - and- IN THE MATTER OF AN APPLICATION by NOVA SCOTIA POWER INC. for approval to amend Regulation 3.6 - Net Metering by enhancing its net metering service, in c...

AI summary The Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board is considering an application by Nova Scotia Power Inc. to amend Regulation 3.6 on Net Metering. The proposed amendment aims to align with recent legislative changes to the Electricity Act, offering expanded customer capacity, aggregated metering, and payment for annual excess generation.

1. Distribution Zone [33] Section 3A(2)(d) of the amended Electricity Act states that customers may have multiple meters under one account within a defined distribution zone, however, the Act does not define "distribution zone". NSPI inter...

AI summary The document discusses the definition of 'distribution zone' under the amended Electricity Act, with NSPI defining it as feeders from a single transformer within a substation. The Board agrees with NSPI's interpretation, emphasizing the intent to limit net metering to within a defined zone to avoid involving transmission assets. The Board acknowledges that changes in distribution zone boundaries may occur due to operational needs.

2. Capacity limits [38] The amended Electricity Act states that the net metering program \;vill permit any customer to generate electricity for the customer's own use and to sell any excess electricity to the utility. It also states that t...

AI summary The amended Electricity Act allows net metering up to 1 MW per customer without an overall system limit. NSPI proposed a 20 MW system limit divided into two classes, but the Board does not support this limit, emphasizing the need to encourage renewable energy participation. The Board, however, agrees with classifying generators into two categories to facilitate interconnection.

VI SUMMARY OF FINDINGS [47] The Board approves NSPI's amended net metering Regulation 3.6 with the following modifications: a) revise the lower limit of its Class 2 grouping to be 101 kW instead of greater than 100 kW Document: 187484 b) r...

AI summary The Board approves NSPI's amended net metering Regulation 3.6 with modifications, including revised lower limits and removal of system-wide subscription limits. NSPI is required to file an annual report and submit the revised regulation by a specific deadline.

ORDER WHEREAS on November 1, 2010, Nova Scotia Power Incorporated ("NSPI") applied to the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board (the "Board") for approval to amend its Regulation 3.6 - Net Metering Service, in compliance with recent changes...

AI summary The Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board approved Nova Scotia Power Incorporated's amended Regulation 3.6 - Net Metering Service in March 2011, following a regulatory proceeding that included information requests, written submissions, and a review of all filings.

3.6.3.2 Customer For the purpose ofthe Net Metering regulation "customer" is defined as a single legal entity.

AI summary The Net Metering regulation defines a 'customer' as a single legal entity for the purposes of the regulation.

3.6.4 Billing - a) Customer-generators will be billed under the otherwise-applicable metered rate schedules. - b) If in a given billing period the electricity supplied to Nsprs grid by the customergenerator exceeds that supplied to the cus...

AI summary The billing rules for customer-generators outline how excess self-generation is handled, including energy credits and their application to future bills. Credits are banked and applied over 12 months, with compensation at the appropriate retail rate, excluding Demand Side Cost Recovery Rider charges. The customer-generator sets an annual anniversary date for credit reset and compensation.

3.6.6 Special Conditions - a) Special conditions in this regulation do not supersede, modify or nullify special conditions accompanying the otherwise-applicable metered rate schedules. - b) A Qualifying generating facility must meet the fo...

AI summary This section outlines special conditions for Net Metering service, including requirements for Qualifying generating facilities, compliance with safety and performance standards, customer-generator responsibilities, and procedures for applying and terminating the service.

Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board Mailing address PO Box 1692, Unit "M" Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 353 [email protected] Web www.nsuarb.ca Office 3rd Floor 1601 Lower Water Street Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 3P6 902 424-4448 t 902424-3919...

AI summary Nova Scotia Power Inc. (NSPI) filed an application proposing enhancements to Regulation 3.6 - Net Metering. The Utility and Review Board instructed NSPI to advertise the Notice in specified newspapers and send copies to current net metering customers.

NOVA SCOTIA POWER INC. REGULATION 3.6 .... NET METERING Notice is hereby given that Nova Scotia Power Incorporated ("NSPI") has made an Application to the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board (the "Board") for approval to amend Regulation...

AI summary Nova Scotia Power Inc. (NSPI) has applied to the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board to amend Regulation 3.6 on Net Metering, aiming to expand customer capacity, enable aggregated metering, and allow payment for annual excess generation, in line with recent changes to the Electricity Act. Interested parties can participate by filing a Notice of Intention to Participate by December 9, 2010.

ORDER WHEREAS Nova Scotia Power Incorporated ("NSPI") applied to the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board (the "Board") for approval to amend Regulation 3.6 - Net Metering by enhancing its net metering service, in compliance with recent le...

AI summary Nova Scotia Power Incorporated applied to amend Regulation 3.6 - Net Metering to enhance its service in compliance with legislative changes to the Electricity Act. The Board set a schedule for information requests, responses, and written submissions in the proceeding.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 2 IR-l Request 4 At line 15, page NSPI states that it will work with customers to help ensure their 6, 5 ofthe generator is sized to meet the expected annual consumption customer. 6 Assuming the customer is proposing ins...

AI summary The document contains several requests related to NSPI's application to amend Regulation 3.6 on net metering. These requests include clarifications on generator sizing, definitions of distribution zones, and details on energy and demand charges for different rate classes.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL 30 (a) Please indicate the method NSPI will use to determine the customer's expected annual 31 consumption with respect to determining the maximum size of a customer's net metered 33 (b) Please indicate how much excess ene...

AI summary The document outlines questions regarding the methodology NSPI will use to determine a customer's expected annual consumption for net metered generation systems, including the acceptable level of excess energy generation and the rationale behind the proposed classification of net metered generation systems.

II BACKGROUND - [5] NSPI has offered net metering to its customers since 1989. The current form of Regulation 3.6 was approved by the Board in 2005. - [6] The existing Regulation 3.6 defines net metering service as "... a metering and bill...

AI summary NSPI has offered net metering since 1989, with current regulations approved in 2005. The existing rules define net metering and include restrictions on eligibility, credit banking, and service continuity. In 2010, the NSDOE released a Renewable Electricity Plan aiming for 25% renewable electricity by 2015 and 40% by 2020, which prompted NSPI to submit an expanded net metering regulation for approval.

III NSPI PROPOSED AMENDMENTS [12] In its Application, NSPI proposed the following amendments to Regulation 3.6: - a) Increase the existing limit for customer generating capacity from 100 kW to 1 MW. - b) Increase the existing net metering...

AI summary NSPI proposed amendments to Regulation 3.6, including increasing customer generating capacity limits, revising net metering program capacities, establishing two classes of service, expanding meter aggregation, and modifying surplus generation compensation. The amendments aim to align with interconnection standards and facilitate administrative processes. NSPI also confirmed alignment with the Electricity Act and engaged stakeholders in the process.

2. Capacity Limits [23] HRWC's position regarding the net metering capacity limit is as follows: ... a cap of 20MW (about 1% of maximum NSPI system demand) appears overly restrictive, and there has been no evidence provided by NSPI to sugg...

AI summary HRWC argues that the 20 MW net metering capacity limit imposed by NSPI is overly restrictive and lacks sufficient evidence. NSPI defends the cap, citing its increase from 12 MW and the need to monitor cost recovery implications. NSPI also plans to revisit the cap in the future and agrees with a recommendation to adjust the Class 2 limit to 101 kW.

1. Distribution Zone [33] Section 3A(2)(d) of the amended Electricity Act states that customers may have multiple meters under one account within a defined distribution zone, however, the Act does not define "distribution zone". NSPI inter...

AI summary The document discusses the definition of 'distribution zone' under the amended Electricity Act, NSPI's interpretation of the term, and the Board's agreement with NSPI's definition. It also addresses scenarios where distribution zone boundaries may change, impacting net metering eligibility.

2. Capacity limits [38] The amended Electricity Act states that the net metering program \;vill permit any customer to generate electricity for the customer's own use and to sell any excess electricity to the utility. It also states that t...

AI summary The amended Electricity Act allows net metering up to one megawatt per customer, with no overall system limit. NSPI proposed a 20 MW system limit divided into two classes, but the Board does not support imposing such limits without evidence, emphasizing the importance of distribution zone capacity and ongoing monitoring.

3.6.3 Applicability The service is applicable to any metered electric service accounts which are electrically connected to the same NSPI Distribution Zone as the generator, and which are owned by the same customer.

AI summary The service is applicable to metered electric service accounts connected to the same NSPI Distribution Zone as the generator and owned by the same customer.

3.6.3.2 Customer For the purpose of the Net Metering regulation "customer" is defined as a single legal entity.

AI summary The term 'customer' under the Net Metering regulation is defined as a single legal entity.

3.6.5 Metering - a) Net energy metering shall be accomplished using a single meter capable of registering the flow of electricity in two directions as approved by Measurement Canada. If the eligible customer-generator's existing electrical...

AI summary The section outlines requirements for net energy metering, specifying that a single meter approved by Measurement Canada must be used. If a customer's existing meter cannot measure bidirectional flow, they are responsible for costs. NSPI may require separate meters if a single meter is not reliable or safe, also at the customer's expense.

3.6 NET METERING SERVICE b) In addition to a), for Class 2 Net Metering an additional metering system dedicated exclusively to measuring the generator's output is required.

AI summary Class 2 Net Metering requires an additional metering system dedicated to measuring the generator's output, in addition to the existing requirements.

3.6.6 Special Conditions - a) Special conditions in this regulation do not supersede, modify or nullify special conditions accompanying the otherwise-applicable metered rate schedules. - b) A Qualifying generating facility must meet the fo...

AI summary This section outlines special conditions for Net Metering service, including requirements for qualifying generating facilities, compliance with safety standards, customer responsibilities for costs, and procedures for applying and terminating service.

3.6.3 Applicability The service is applicable to any metered electric service accounts which are electrically connected to the same NSPI Distribution Zone as the generator, and which are owned by the same customer.

AI summary The service is applicable to metered electric service accounts connected to the same NSPI Distribution Zone as the generator and owned by the same customer.

3.6.3.2 Customer For the purpose of the Net Metering regulation "customer" is defined as a single legal entity.

AI summary The term 'customer' under the Net Metering regulation is defined as a single legal entity.

3.6.4 Billing - a) Customer-generators will be billed under the otherwise-applicable metered rate schedules. - b) If in a given billing period the electricity supplied to NSPI's grid by the customergenerator exceeds that supplied to the cu...

AI summary The billing provisions for customer-generators outline how excess self-generation is banked as energy credits and applied to future bills. If the combined banked credits and self-generation are less than purchased energy, the customer is billed for the net purchased energy. Energy credits are reset annually, with compensation based on the customer's rate structure, excluding Demand Side Cost Recovery Rider charges.

3.6.6 Special Conditions - a) Special conditions in this regulation do not supersede, modify or nullify special conditions accompanying the otherwise-applicable metered rate schedules. - b) A Qualifying generating facility must meet the fo...

AI summary This section outlines special conditions for Net Metering service, including requirements for qualifying generating facilities, location constraints, compliance with safety standards, and responsibilities of customer-generators. It also covers application procedures and service termination rules.

IN THE MATTER OF THE PUBLIC UTILITIES ACT - and - IN THE MATTER OF AN APPLICATION by NOVA SCOTIA POWER INC. for approval to amend Regulation 3.6 - Net Metering by enhancing its net metering service, in compliance with recent legislative ch...

AI summary Nova Scotia Power Inc. has applied for approval to amend Regulation 3.6 - Net Metering to enhance its net metering service, align with recent legislative changes to the Electricity Act, and provide expanded customer capacity, aggregated metering, and payment for annual excess generation.

ORDER WHEREAS on November 1, 2010, Nova Scotia Power Incorporated ("NSPI") applied to the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board (the "Board") for approval to amend its Regulation 3.6 - Net Metering Service, in compliance with recent changes...

AI summary Nova Scotia Power Incorporated applied to amend its Regulation 3.6 - Net Metering Service in compliance with the Electricity Act. After a series of filings and submissions, the Board approved the amended regulation with modifications, and NSPI filed the revised regulation on March 31, 2011.

3.6.3.2 Customer For the purpose ofthe Net Metering regulation "customer" is defined as a single legal entity.

AI summary The Net Metering regulation defines a 'customer' as a single legal entity for the purposes of the proceeding.

3.6.6 Special Conditions - a) Special conditions in this regulation do not supersede, modify or nullify special conditions accompanying the otherwise-applicable metered rate schedules. - b) A Qualifying generating facility must meet the fo...

AI summary This section outlines special conditions for Net Metering service, including requirements for qualifying generating facilities, compliance with safety standards, customer responsibilities, and grandfathering provisions for existing net metering customers.