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Please see 
this letter for information on how Public Act 235 impacts DTE customers and solar installers.
Together, we can create a clean energy future for Michigan. While DTE Energy does not install solar or other renewable energy generation systems for our customers, we have an important role to play in connecting your private generation system to the grid.
The Rider 18 Distributed Generation Program is available to DTE customers with qualified renewable energy on-site generation. Participants are compensated for electricity they send into DTE's distribution system (outflow) when they fulfill DTE's Renewable Resource requirements.
The program is limited to Level 1, 2 and 3 renewable projects (see a list of example documentation). Customers with private generation systems are still connected to DTE's distribution grid. Your DTE bill will reflect charges for inflow in accordance with the rate schedule to which Rider 18 is attached and any credits generated by your system.
Ready to go renewable?
Learn more about qualified renewable energy on-site generation
Review key considerations before investing in a private generation system
Follow the Interconnection Process to ensure the safety and reliability of your new system
The impact to the customer's electric bill will depend on several factors, including energy consumption, generation, and system size. Interested customers can download this calculator and input inflow/outflow data to estimate the impact to their bill.
Understand your monthly electrical needs and research and review potential installers for your project.
When you're ready, contact several installers to gather quotes before signing a contract.
You can work with your installer to submit an application. Learn more about the interconnection process.
Our application status tracker keeps you in the loop.
You will receive an interconnection agreement, which you will need to sign and return to DTE. After DTE countersigns the interconnection agreement, your installer has 180 days to install the system and upload the construction documents.
Learn more about the installation process
Once your system is installed, the construction documents are uploaded and DTE approves them. DTE then performs a site visit to test and program your system.
Download this calculator and input inflow/outflow data to see how your bill may be impacted.
After a successful site visit, DTE will provide formal authorization to operate and turn on your system so it can begin generating energy. At times, you may generate more electricity than you use, resulting in your system outflowing energy to DTE's distribution system. You then receive outflow credits on your bill that can be used to offset all electric charges, excluding securitization. For all inflow, you are charged the retail rate of the rate schedule to which Rider 18 is attached.
If the amount of outflow credit in a billing period exceeds all electric charges, excluding securitization, the excess outflow credit is stored in the excess generation bank. It can be used in a future billing period to offset all electric charges, excluding securitization, within a premise. The excess generation bank carries forward and does not expire.
It will generally take one or two billing cycles for a customer's bill to reflect participation in the Rider 18 Distributed Generation Program and any outflow credits.
What is inflow and outflow?
Will I still receive a bill from DTE after I have installed my system?
Yes. Customers with private generation systems are still connected to DTE's grid and receive electric energy from DTE when their system does not produce enough power to meet their needs. You'll still receive charges according to your rate schedule for total inflow, including any fixed charges associated with the relevant rate schedule.
Will customers who install private generation systems still lose power if DTE's distribution system suffers damage, requires maintenance, or otherwise experiences a power outage?
If your system is equipped with a typical “grid following inverter”:
Yes. Inverters are designed to shut off if the utility loses power, which is required by national standards for safety purposes. Customers with generation sources not connected to the grid (e.g., those with backup generators and/or battery storage) may avoid power loss in such instances.
If your system includes a “grid forming” inverter and a transfer trip system (which is not common in Michigan):
Your system may keep your devices running, so long as your system produces enough power to support your current needs. However, if you try to use more power than your private generation system makes, the inverter will turn off the power until your demand is reduced. If you have a solar PV system prior to sunset, the system will likely stop making enough power to power your home or business.
In either case, customers are NOT “off the grid” even while on the program. Private renewable generation systems taking service under the Rider 18 Distributed Generation Program will still be connected to a continuous source of electrical energy from DTE's distribution grid.
See What Your Bill Will Look Like
Below is an example of a bill you'd receive under the Rider 18 Distributed Generation Program.
The example is meant for illustrative purposes only. Charges depicted may not reflect current rates.
If you have questions, please contact the rates and billing hotline at (800) 482-8720, option #4.
Is my roof a good candidate for solar?
Your geographic location, the pitch of your roof and the direction your home faces all impact how much solar energy you can harvest.
Long periods of shade can affect electricity generation. Trees, chimneys and other buildings can make some rooftops a less-than-ideal place for solar panels.
Solar PV systems are a long-term commitment and can last 15 to 30 years. You will want to ensure your roof is in very good condition and will last the lifetime of the solar PV system. Not having a roof in sufficient condition may require you to uninstall and re-install the PV system during this time, thus adding to unexpected costs and PV system downtime.
Additional factors may exist that prevent rooftop solar power generation. An installer will thoroughly evaluate your home for solar compatibility.
We encourage you to do research as you would for any major project or purchase.
DTE does not provide installer recommendations, but Michigan Saves maintains a list of solar installers in the state. Meet with multiple contractors and be sure to review credentials.
The state of Michigan maintains a webpage to look up the current status of licenses. Both the general contractor and the electrician will require licenses to perform work.
In addition to online reviews, seek out recommendations from friends and neighbors who have installed solar at their own homes. Look for positive reviews at the Better Business Bureau.
Ensure that your installation includes a workmanship warranty (and thoroughly read it) so that you're covered if issues arise after your system is live.
Why are Rider 16 Net Metering customers being switched to the Rider 18 Distributed Generation program?
State laws mandated that the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) phase out the Net Metering program and create a new distributed generation program. For DTE, these laws resulted in the implementation of the Rider 18 Distributed Generation Program in 2019.
DTE's existing Rider 16 Net Metering sites will be converted to the Rider 18 Distributed Generation Program upon reaching their 10-year anniversary in the Net Metering program. DTE will notify customers via email approximately 30 days prior to their rate conversion.
When switching to Rider 18 Distributed Generation, will Net Metering customers lose their Excess Generation Bank?
No. Customers converting to the Rider 18 Distributed Generation Program will receive a check for their Excess Generation Bank balance, if applicable, approximately 60 days after their conversion.
How does this affect a SolarCurrents contract?
Moving to the Rider 18 Distributed Generation Program does not affect SolarCurrents contracts. The SolarCurrents contracts are applied to the purchase of renewable energy credits for 20 years and will continue under the Rider 18 Distributed Generation Program.
Can a customer expand their existing project size and remain on Rider 16 Net Metering?
No. If a customer expands their renewable generation system, the entire system will be moved to the Rider 18 Distributed Generation Program, not just the expansion.
How will the Distributed Generation Program impact the customer's electric bill?
The impact to the customer's electric bill will depend on several factors, including energy consumption, generation, and system size. Interested customers can download this calculator and input inflow/outflow data to estimate the impact to their bill.
Can a Rider 18 Distributed Generation Program customer enroll in the MIGreenPower program?
Yes, a Rider 18 Distributed Generation Program customer can enroll in the MIGreenPower program as a simple and effective way to become a net zero carbon emissions customer. Under Rider 18 Distributed Generation, customers inflow electricity from the grid and receive credit for any outflow. As a result, Rider 18 Distributed Generation Program customers may be interested in “greening” all their energy.
In order to calculate their MIGreenPower subscription, customers will need to look at their annual inflow and outflow. Here is an example:
| Achieve Net Zero Emissions | kWh | Percent% | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total annual inflow | 10,000 | 100% | |
| Renewable energy from grid | 1,500 | 15% | |
| Total annual outflow | 7,500 | 75% | |
| Net | 1,000 | 10% | |
| Estimated Net Zero Percent for MIGP | 10% |
| “Greening” all incoming energy | kWh | Percent% | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total annual inflow | 10,000 | 100% | |
| Renewable energy from grid | 1,500 | 15% | |
| Net | 8,500 | 85% | |
| Estimated Percent for MIGP | 85% |
I purchased a home with a renewable electric generation system. What do I need to do?
First, you will need to transfer the electric service to your name by calling (800) 477-4747. You will then need to start a new interconnection application to transfer the system into your name. To start this process, follow this link to login to your dashboard and then click on "Start a New Project" button and follow all the necessary steps in PowerClerk. For a description of service, be sure to select "Change of ownership of a currently served location." For additional questions or assistance, please call the DTE Interconnection Hotline at (313) 235-4333 or email the Interconnection team and provide your name and address.
New residents are also required to sign a new Parallel Operating Agreement. If the previous homeowner installed the system under the Net Metering program, the system will continue under the program for the remainder of the 10-year period before transitioning to the Distributed Generation Program.
What if I move/sell my home after installing a private generation system?
Many homeowners who install solar panels or other renewable systems leave the system if they sell or change locations. The new owners assume responsibility for the system. If you acquire a home with a private generating system, as the new property owner, you must reapply to DTE to transfer the system into your name. You also have the option of removing your system and reinstalling it on another home, subject to eligibility requirements. You are responsible for these costs and will need to reapply (and meet all program requirements) to connect to the grid at your new location.
We know that installing a private generation system is a big commitment. While DTE won't design or install your system, we will work with you and your installer throughout the interconnection process.
This page outlines the four-step process you and your installer will follow to work with DTE to safely connect your system to the grid.
If you are not a registered installer with DTE, please call (800) 482-8720 and select option 4 to register. For additional information on the interconnection portal, see the Installer job aid. For residential customers, see the Residential Customer job aid.
1. Prepare for Your Project
2. Apply for Interconnection
3. Install Your System and submit required documentation
4. Pass the Site Visit
The interconnection process takes approximately 20 business weeks for most home projects. We look forward to working with you to get your system connected safely to the grid.
Do the research! It's the best start to ensuring a smooth and successful private generation installation.
DTE's Hosting Capacity Map can be viewed here.
DTE's EV Hosting Capacity Map can be viewed here.
The DTE Interconnection queue list can be found here. DTE will update this file no less than once per month.
Review your electric bills for monthly, seasonal and annual usage. Consider your plans for additional electric use as well as opportunities for energy efficiency. Know the amount of power your system will generate to meet your needs and budget. To access your usage data, sign in to your DTE account, click on Energy Usage Data, and follow the steps to download your Energy Usage Report.
Assess your home's potential, and be aware of common solar installation issues.
Meet with multiple installers. Determining your project's size is important, and consulting with installers will help you understand the project's scope and costs. Get references, review licenses and certifications and make sure you're confident your installer will keep you informed throughout the interconnection process. See tips for finding the right installer.
Projects are grouped into different tracks based on their requirements. Most residential projects will fall under the Rider 18 Distributed Generation program. Please see the detailed table of project tracks and fees for your project. For more information, please email us at interconnect_account@dteenergy.com.
Fee to apply for the Rider 18 Distributed Generation Program is $50*. Other projects may incur fees based on your project's track. See table below for more information.
Non-Export Tracks
Fast Tracks
Study Tracks
* The fee for a Legacy Net Metering or Distributed Generation program must not exceed a total of $50, including any applicable Fast Track Initial Review fee, Fast Track Supplemental Review fee and Study Track fees.
† When a System Impact or Facilities Study is necessary for Non-Export or Fast Track projects, the fees will correspond to the appropriate level of the project.
‡ Pre-application review required for all level 4 and 5 projects.
§ Level 3 and 4 projects may only require the System Impact Study fee. The applicant will be notified if a Facilities Study is needed.
‖ For level 1 and 2 projects, System Impact and Facilities studies are combined.
Level 1 & 2 Example Documentation
Level 3, 4 & 5 Example Documentation
Once your project size is determined, the engineering drawings are complete and all other required interconnection information is gathered, you or your installer (if you've agreed to your installer's proposal) will complete DTE's interconnection application in PowerClerk®. You will receive project updates via email, and your installer can access the PowerClerk website for status updates on the application.
You can check your project’s status in the dashboard once you log in.
After receiving your interconnection application and fee, DTE will review your project. Within 10 business days, DTE will notify you and your installer if your application is approved and which track your project will be on or if your application needs to be amended.
Once your project is approved, DTE will apply a set of initial review screens and notify you and your installer of the results. If your project does not pass the initial review screens, DTE will notify you and your installer about options on how to proceed.
We'll also inform you if you need to choose a compatible electric rate. Learn more about the rate schedules to which the Rider 18 Distributed Generation program is attached.
The Interconnection Agreement is a required contractual agreement between a customer and DTE explaining that both parties will operate their respective systems safely and within the detailed interconnection requirements.
Before project construction can begin, an Interconnection Agreement will be emailed to the customer from DocuSign for an electronic signature. If necessary, DTE can also mail a hard copy of the agreement to the customer for a signature.
Please note: The Interconnection Agreement must be signed by the customer and cannot be signed by an installer on behalf of the customer.
Before installation begins, make sure your application is approved and an interconnection agreement has been fully executed by you and DTE.
There are project risks for not correcting deficiencies before installation:
Sunk costsNo application refunds.
DelaysProjects can be delayed for weeks or months.
ReapplyingThe application process, including fees and reviews, starts again.
Once DTE receives and fully executes your Interconnection Agreement, you or your installer must upload the required construction documents to PowerClerk and complete the installation within 180 days.
The sticker must specify that the final inspection was approved and the work description was for a solar energy system. It must also include the site address and be signed and dated by the local governing authority.
Photo must include the meter and A/C disconnect.
Please note: For safety reasons, this requirement protects you, DTE field technicians and emergency services.
Once all construction documents are uploaded, DTE will review the documents for accuracy within 10 business days. If your construction documents are approved, your project will be scheduled for a site visit. If the construction documents are incomplete or need to be amended, the applicant shall have at least 20 business days or a mutually agreed upon time frame with DTE to implement corrections to those documents.
Please note that DTE might require additional documentation for a larger project.
On the day of the site visit, a DTE field technician will visit your location to test your private generation energy system. To prepare for the site visit, please ensure:
Solar panels are clear from debris (snow, leaves, etc.).
The inverter is on.
The AC disconnect switch is in the “OFF” position.
Reminder: The AC disconnect should not be switched to “ON” by anyone other than a DTE technician.
To ensure a safe connection, the AC disconnect switch will only be turned “ON” by a DTE technician after the site inspection and testing is successful.
DTE will email you a Parallel Operating Authorization through PowerClerk® for your records.
With all requirements complete and the system on, you can begin generating energy and outflow credits. Your DTE bill will reflect charges for your service as well as credits for your outflow. It may take one or two billing cycles for DTE to process your new bill.
To which rates can Rider 18 Distributed Generation be attached?
Rider 18 can be attached to any residential, commercial, secondary or primary rate schedules, except for the following:
D3.1 UNMETERED GENERAL SERVICE RATE
D9 OUTDOOR PROTECTIVE LIGHTING
Rider 18 cannot be attached to any other Riders. Please see the list of Residential Rate Options or visit DTE Energy's Rate Book.
Are there any other options for Level 1 and 2 or if I don't have a renewable generation source?
Yes, Rider 14 is available to qualifying customers with on-site generation capacity of up to 150 kW. Unlike Rider 18, the generation does not need to be renewable, and does not need to be limited to the rate schedule's on-site usage. However, the outflow credit on Rider 14 is based on the wholesale market, as opposed to the retail rate schedule. In addition, Rider 5 is available to Level 1 or 2 customers meeting the requirements as a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Qualifying Facility.
Do I need to notify DTE if I'm planning to add a battery storage system?
DTE doesn't require customers to install battery storage. However, if you do wish to install a battery storage system, contact DTE to confirm the battery won't interact with the distribution system and to help ensure you maintain eligibility for service under the Rider 18 Distributed Generation Program or Net Metering. Export from batteries for Rider 18 connected systems is not permitted.
To submit a new application with the addition of a battery storage system, please Start Your Application.
Why isn’t my DG Tariff battery storage or emergency generator permitted to discharge energy to the grid?
Since battery storage systems and emergency backup generators don't qualify as renewable energy resources, they aren't permitted to discharge energy back to the distribution system.
Businesses with a generator greater than 250 kW may qualify for the Dispersed Generation tariff (Rider 13) and receive voluntary dispersed generation payments for operating their generation at the request of DTE. For more information, call (800) 482-8720 and select option #4.
Learn more about eligibility for the Rider 18 Distributed Generation Program.
Solar installations connected to DTE's distribution grid are subject to DTE tariffs and interconnection procedures, as well as Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) regulations
Below are some timelines for key points in the process. It's important to be aware of these timelines to make sure the process continues to move forward. If a step is taking longer than expected, you can review your application or installation status in PowerClerk to identify and resolve issues as quickly as possible. Please note: timelines may vary for your specific project.
Application & Initial Review Screenings
After receiving a complete application in PowerClerk® and associated payment, DTE will notify you within 10 business days if your application is approved or needs to be amended. If approved, DTE will apply a set of initial review screens to your project and notify you of the results within 10 business days in most cases.
Interconnection Agreement
Prior to construction of your project, an Interconnection Agreement must be fully executed by you and DTE.
Installation, Testing & Inspection
Required construction and construction documents must be uploaded to PowerClerk within 180 days. After DTE approves these documents within 10 business days, a DTE field technician will visit your site and test your private generation system.
Please note: When DTE is performing storm restoration, our engineering and field resources prioritize customer safety and restoration efforts. Interconnection review timelines and site visit timelines may experience delays until storm restoration is completed. Please visit the DTE Outage Center and view the Outage Map for up-to-date information.
Each renewable power generation system can connect to one meter. A private system can service an accessory unit, but must connect to the DTE distribution grid via a single meter.
Not every property can effectively accommodate solar power. Your roof pitch, shade and the angle of the sun are all factors.
Systems must be limited in size, not to exceed 110% of the customer's self-service needs of the rate schedule to which the Rider 18 Distributed Generation Program is attached.
Roof Condition
Solar panels are a long-term commitment, so you will want to be sure your roof is in good condition before installation. Removing and reinstalling solar panels add unexpected costs to the project.
Access Issues
Local governments have strict rules about placement of cutoff switches and access lanes between panels so firefighters can effectively manage an emergency.
Wiring Issues
Your system will connect with both your building and the grid. Wires must be the correct gauges and connections must be properly made. In some cases, you may need to install a new primary service breaker.
Sufficient Grounding
All conductive materials in your solar panel system must be properly grounded. This process can be more complicated than a typical building's grounding bar. Remember, you're installing a small-scale power plant on your roof.
Avoid surprises during the installation process. Know the regulations and verify that they're followed. This collection of checklists, guides and forms can help with planning and installation.
Please also review the Electric Service Installation Guide (Green Book, and also called the Service Installation Manual) and see Section 5 (Service Equipment) and Section 7 (Wiring and Appliance Installation).
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If you would like to withdraw or cancel your project, please contact the DTE Interconnection Team at interconnect_account@dteenergy.com or call (313) 235-4333.
The impact to the customer's electric bill will depend on several factors, including energy consumption, generation, and system size. Interested customers can download this calculator and input inflow/outflow data to estimate the impact to their bill.
Why can't I see my projects?
Granted projects via grantee/grantor functionality within PowerClerk will not be displayed in the grantee's Commerce dashboard. You can view all your accessible projects in PowerClerk.
What happens if I create a project without the customer's authorization?
PowerClerk projects you created won't have pre-populated data fields and will be in unsubmitted status by default. Your customer won't see the project in their dashboard until you provide an accurate Customer Account Number and Service Address in PowerClerk.
What happens if I create a project myself (without authorizing an Installer)?
You won't be able to assign the project to an Installer afterwards. To assign it to an installer, you must cancel the current project and start a new one with the Installer authorization process.
How can I cancel or withdraw projects?
If you want to cancel or withdraw a project, please contact the DTE Interconnection Team at interconnect_account@dteenergy.com or call (313) 235-4333.
Billing Hotline
For Rider 18 Distributed Generation and Net Metering billing questions, please call (800) 482-8720 and select option #4.
For all other billing questions:
call (800) 477-4747.
Hours: Monday - Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Interconnection Hotline
Have questions about your solar energy system, planning an installation or the interconnection process? Please call us at (313) 235-4333.
Hours: Monday - Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Or email: interconnect_account@dteenergy.com
