The Oregon Public Utility Commission (OPUC) opened Docket UM 2111 in June 2020 with the goal of investigating interconnection policies and processes to address emerging challenges in the energy sector. Phase 1 of this two-part investigation has made strides in modernizing interconnection processes to align them with updated standards, and set the stage for further advances. Now that Phase 1 is largely complete, the Commission has turned to Phase 2 with the aim of improving both the technical and procedural facets of interconnection, including enforceable timelines.

This article will discuss the progress and scope of UM 2111, as well as list key details of upcoming workshops that may help to guide renewable energy developers, utility representatives, or stakeholders as they navigate Oregon’s energy landscape.

A Brief History of OPUC UM 2111

In 2020, OPUC initiated Docket UM 2111 in response to growing interconnection challenges prompted by increased demand for renewable energy, advances in distributed energy resources (DERs), and evolving federal regulations. The investigation would entail two phases.

Phase 1

The first would focus on modernizing technical standards and rules to improve interconnection processes. Key outcomes included:

• • Adoption of IEEE 1547-2018 Standards: These define requirements for DERs to ensure improved compatibility with the grid.
  • Updates to Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR): Small Generator Interconnection Rules (Division 82) and Net Metering Rules (Division 39) were revised to align with updated standards and improve clarity.
  • Utility Handbook Feedback Process: The commission mandated an annual review for utility handbooks, including workshops to gather stakeholder feedback. This was designed to foster collaboration and ensure continuous updates to interconnection frameworks.

Phase 2

Launched on September 27, 2024, Phase 2 features two proposed workstreams:

1. 1. Direct Transfer Trip (DTT) Requirements: Examine technical questions related to DTT design and implementation, along with broader technical issues like metering and interoperability.
   2. Enforceable Timelines: Develop standards and solutions to improve timelines for interconnection studies and construction.

Why Does This Matter?

Efficient and predictable interconnection processes are vital for Oregon to meet its renewable energy goals, and for renewable energy developers who wish to bring their projects into operation. The UM 2111 investigation guides renewable energy developers, utility stakeholders, and other energy clients by addressing several high-priority issues:

• • Reducing interconnection delays to promote cleaner energy deployment.
  • Creating transparent standards for technical requirements like DTTs.
  • Addressing cost-sharing mechanisms to foster equitable development.
  • Improving customer satisfaction by addressing complaints linked to interconnection inefficiencies.

Upcoming Phase 2 Workshops

The key details for the initial workshops are provided below. Before attending, please make sure to confirm the accuracy of the details here, because the dates of these workshops may change.

1. 1. DTT Workstream

• • Date: December 5, 2024
  • Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (PST)
  • Focus: To clarify technical requirements for DTT implementation, including the engineering rationale and alternative solutions. The goal for these workshops is to directly involve design or operational staff who can discuss operational considerations in detail. Subsequent workshops will explore additional technical topics, including metering and interoperability and testing procedures for Inverter-Based Resources (IBRs).

1. 2. Enforceable Timelines Workstream

• • Date: December 17, 2024
  • Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (PST)
  • Focus: Address interconnection delays by proposing enforceable timelines for studies and construction. Topics may include utility staffing levels, third-party construction, and equitable cost-sharing frameworks.

How to Join

Both workshops will be held virtually via Zoom. Details for joining:

• • Link to Meeting
  • Meeting ID: 161 574 4592
  • Passcode: 1537531382

Get Involved in Oregon’s Energy Future

The UM 2111 investigation represents a concerted effort to create a more efficient, equitable, and sustainable grid in Oregon. Staying informed and actively engaging in this decision-making process will help to shape the next phase of interconnection modernization and position energy clients to thrive during the continued expansion of renewable resource deployment.

This article summarizes aspects of the law. This article does not constitute legal advice. For legal advice regarding your situation, you should contact an attorney.