Here are some of the frequently asked questions about Non-Export Self-Generation.
Net Metering allows you to send excess electricity back to the SaskPower grid and receive a credit on your bill. Net Metering has a project size limit of 100kW direct current (DC). This option may be suitable if your system is expected to generate more electricity than you can use at certain times and you want to receive bill credits for excess generation.
Non-Exporting Self-Generation lets you generate your own electricity without sending excess power to the grid. You stay connected to SaskPower’s system for when you do not generate enough power. This option may be suitable if you plan to use all the electricity you generate on-site or store it in a battery for later use.
Off-Grid Generation means your system operates independently and is not connected to the SaskPower grid. You won’t need an interconnection study, but you’re fully responsible for your own power supply. This option may be suitable for locations where grid service is not available or for customers who want to operate independently of the SaskPower system.Any self-generation project that is connected to the SaskPower grid must be reviewed and approved by SaskPower. SaskPower may need to install interconnection and protection facilities to account for your generation to maintain a safe and reliable grid.
Once the study is complete, you will receive a cost from SaskPower. Expected wait times are between 60 – 180 days.
There’s a chance that your project triggers the need for a study of the Transmission system as well. This will impact your timeline. It is important for you to contact SaskPower early in your project development as this may be identified and communicated to you earlier in the process.
Your protection system is designed to protect your site only. SaskPower often needs to install our own protection measures to ensure the grid and other customers are protected.
If you decide to change any aspect of your project after SaskPower has completed the interconnection study, you must submit a revised application and SaskPower will complete a new study. Any previously provided costs and schedules will no longer be valid, and SaskPower will provide an updated cost estimate and schedule.
If you decide to change any aspect of your project after the Generator Interconnection Agreement has been signed, you must submit a revised application and SaskPower will complete a new study. The existing agreement will be cancelled, and any associated scope, costs, and schedules will no longer be valid. A new agreement will be required before proceeding.
The same requirement applies after your system has been energized and is in service. If you later decide to expand your system, replace equipment, relocate equipment, increase generation capacity, add energy storage, or make any other material change to the approved installation, you must contact SaskPower and submit a revised application before making the change. SaskPower will review the proposed modifications and determine whether a new interconnection study, additional requirements, or a new agreement are required.
This is important because changes to a generation system can affect the safety, operation, and reliability of SaskPower's electrical system and may impact other customers connected to the grid.
Yes. Customers may install small-scale solar technologies such as plug-in or “balcony” solar systems.
However, these systems are still considered behind-the-meter generation and must follow the same application, review, and approval process as any other solar installation. These requirements help ensure your system operates safely and does not impact your electrical service or the broader grid.
Yes. While plug-in solar systems are designed to be simple to install, they can introduce unique electrical safety risks if not properly designed and installed.
In North America, most residential electrical systems are designed for one-way power flow—from the electrical panel to outlets and devices. Plug-in solar systems work differently by sending electricity back through a standard outlet, which can create risks such as:
- overloading wiring or circuits, which may not be detected by existing breakers
- interfering with safety devices, such as ground-fault protection
- potential fire or shock hazards if equipment is not properly certified or installed
It is important to ensure you still consult a certified electrician and contact SaskPower and TSASK to follow processes before utilizing such equipment in your home or business.
