Microgeneration / Distributed Energy Resource (DER)

Generating your own power is an environmentally conscious decision. Medicine Hat is well-positioned to support your success.

You may qualify for a rebate for your new residential micro-generation system through the award-winning HAT Smart program. Find out more on the HAT Smart page.

Renewable generation

We approve microgeneration facilities that generate electricity.

Other generation

Sources, other than renewable, are acceptable if in compliance with Electric Utility Bylaw #2244.

How to apply

Getting connected with us is a simple five-step process. Use the following timeline to learn what you need to do and what we will be doing during that process.

Request a System Size Review

You (the micro-generation owner) will:

The Strategy and Analysis department will:

  • Review historical consumption data for the proposed project location to ensure that the system size complies with the Electrical Utility bylaw #2244.
  • Send an email to the homeowner stating the maximum allowable system size in kW (DC)

Consumption will be based on the following:

  • Existing properties: usage at the proposed installation site
  • New properties: usage from comparable sites

Estimated time: 10 to 14 business days

The System Size Review is applicable for 12 months.

You or your contractor/electrician will review and obtain the following forms:
  • Micro-Generation / Distributed Energy Resource Interconnection Guide – Explains City Electric requirements for your micro-generation installation and how to complete an application form.
  • System Size Approval - Completed by owner and shared with the contractor. This must show the "Maximum System Size (DC)."
  • Net Billing Connection Agreement for Micro-Generation – Establishes the terms and conditions under which the output of your micro-generation facility will be served by City Electric. Please ensure it is reviewed and signed.
  • Micro-Generation Single-Line Diagram – A template for Single Phase Grid-Dependent is provided with detailed information regarding the source of micro-generation, inverter system and electric panel connection. If this does not fit your setup, please provide your own custom single-line diagram with required information. The diagram must show all interconnection protection function requirements based on the system.
Manufacturer’s Equipment Data Sheet and Applicable certification document(s)
  • This includes inverter operational settings document, commissioning report c/w protection settings and operating manual. Inverter Documentation displaying compliance with the following:
    • CSA Standard C22.2 107.1 - Power Conversion Equipment, in particular standards respecting "Anti-islanding"
    • UL1741 Supplement A - Standard for Inverters, Converters, Controllers and Interconnection System Equipment for Use with Distributed Energy Resources
For combined heat and power unit, documentation verifying that the generator meets less than or equal to 418 kilograms per megawatt hour limit specified in the Micro-Generation Regulation.
  • Site Plan or pictures to illustrate the Micro-Generation location - (Only required if NOT roof top solar) Must show existing electric service to building (overhead or underground), proposed location of solar array, wind turbine, etc. and how DC/AC supply line will be installed to the residence/building. Must show location of disconnecting means.

You or your contractor/electrician will:

  • Submit a fully completed Micro-generation Application form and all required documentation.
  • Pay a non-refundable micro-generation service fee as per City of Medicine Hat current standard charges. This fee is for our electric crews to install a bi-directional billing meter and evaluate the systems components to commission them. The same fee will also apply for any future changes made to the inverter(s) as recommissioning of the service will be required. The cost of the bi-directional billing meter equipment will be borne by the City of Medicine Hat.

We will:

  • Assign an electrical technologist to review your application package. If required, you will be contacted for any additional information deemed necessary to complete the application.

Estimated time: three weeks

We (Electric Engineering) will:

  • Email you a Micro-Generation Design Approval letter
  • Issue a work order to Electrical Operations

Your contractor/electrician will:

  • NOTE: As local permitting and requirements differ by service location, you must contact the Safety Codes Authority and Planning and Development Services Department responsible for your area
  • Obtain an Electrical Permit and Site Inspection Report from the Safety Codes Authority and complete all requirements
    • Email both documents to elecdist@medicinehat.ca
    • Contact our Electric Customer Service staff at 403-529-8270 to schedule an appointment for a bi-directional meter install and system safety check
  • Obtain any other necessary permits or approvals from your Safety Codes Authority and Planning and Development Services Department
    • This may include a roof structural review for solar (PV) installation or confirming whether a wind turbine installation is allowed on your property

Estimated time: six weeks

We (Electric Operations) will:

  • Email you / your contractor/electrician a micro-generation service fee invoice
  • Confirm the work order has been issued
  • Confirm a copy of Electrical Permit and Site Inspection Report has been received
  • Confirm the contractor has scheduled an appointment

Estimated time: two weeks

We will:

  • Meet at scheduled time for testing of the inverter or other operational settings
  • Replace the existing electric utility billing meter with a bi-directional billing meter, if commissioning is successful
  • Provide you and Strategy and Analysis with a copy of the Commissioning Report
  • Initially, on a monthly basis, read the bi-directional billing meter

Estimated time: one day

You or your contractor/electrician will:

  • Be required to turn on and test your micro-generation system prior to scheduled meter install, to confirm system is functioning
  • Be authorized to connect your micro-generation facility to the electric distribution system

Forms and additional information

Permit and fees

Owners are required to obtain permits/permissions from the applicable Safety Codes Authority and consult the Planning and Development Services responsible for your area, as local permitting requirements may differ by location. A non-refundable micro-generation fee, as per current standard charges, must accompany the application before it can be processed.

Contact Us

Stay up to date.

Subscribe to eNotifications to stay connected with City of Medicine Hat news, activities, events, programs, operations and more.

Sign up today!