Skip to main content

Start or Transfer Service

Home
Menu

 To report an outage please call 1-800-794-1989 or use the SmartHub mobile app. To talk to a person, press zero. To view our outage updates click here.

  • Home
  • About Us
    • Board of Trustees
    • Cooperative Leadership
    • Powering Fort Leavenworth
    • Cooperative Transparency
    • About Touchstone Energy
  • Contact Us
    • Employment Opportunities
    • Media Inquiries
    • Submit Feedback
    • New Construction
    • Ask Matt
    • What is my district?
  • Member Services
    • Apply for Service
    • Payment Options
      • Understanding Your Bill
      • Payment Assistance
      • Pay Cash
      • Pay Now!
    • Capital Credits
    • Your Service
      • Security Options
      • Tree-Trimming
      • High Bill Concern
    • Member Programs
      • Attic Report Card
      • Medical Necessity Notification
      • Time of Use
    • Charges and Fees
    • Member Guide
    • Rebates
  • Outage Center
    • Outage Map
    • Preparing For Planned Outages
    • Social Feeds
    • Storm Updates
  • Communications
    • Connect With Us!
    • Energy Solutions Articles
    • Kansas Country Living
    • The Signal
  • Community Development
    • Co-op's Vote
    • CoBank Sharing Success
    • Local Sponsorships
    • Operation Round-Up
    • Youth Programs
    • FreeState Business Directory
  • Safety
    • Agriculture Safety
    • Emergency Preparedness
    • Generator Safety
    • Meter Access
    • Power Line Safety
    • Prepare for Winter Outages
    • Safety Checklist
    • Safety Demonstrations
    • Ten Tips To Avoid Scams
  • Co-op FAQ
  • SmartHub Mobile
    • Using SmartHub
  • Annual Meeting
    • Annual Report
    • Trustee Application
  • Crew at the Zoo
  • ESC Adjustment
  • Solar/EVs
    • All About EVs
    • Renewable Energy

Renewable Energy

You are here

  1. Solar/EVs
  2. Renewable Energy
Solar How it works

Solar (or wind) is a possibility. No matter where you live or what your energy needs, Free State is committed to helping you. If you've been considering installing solar panels, give us a call. Our solar experts are here to assist. We can answer questions, provide feedback, and give you more information on making the decision to add solar.

FreeState is here to help members when it comes to making a decision about renewable energy. There is no one answer or solution, but varied options that you may find helpful. Our solar experts are here to assist you in deciding whether renewable energy is a solution that fits your home or property. We have the resources and information to walk you through the ins and outs of renewable energy.

We want what is best for our members. Give us a call at 1-800-794-1989 and ask for Matt Lambert.

Please note that as of Monday, October 24, 2022, solar applications in FreeState's WEST DISTRICT will be limited to parallel generation only. FreeState WEST DISTRICT has maxed out the limit of distributed generation per FreeState's net metering tariff. Learn more. 

What's my district?

Here are some helpful links that may assist you in the decision to consider renewable energy.

Solar Surge in Residential Solar Reaches Limits 

Cooperative member interest driving solar

Solar doesn't mean getting rid of FreeState or an electric bill

Solar may not always be the right answer. 

Protect yourself. Wait for cooperative approval before building wind or solar projects.

 

Protect Your Investment

Protect yourself. Wait for cooperative approval before building wind or solar projects.

FreeState Electric Cooperative has received applications for new wind and solar projects (or as FreeState calls them Co-Generation projects) to be built on behalf of our members. Some of these projects have been built by installers before the approval process needed through FreeState has been completed. Failure to get approval before building could be a significant problem if your application does not meet our guidelines. 

The worst-case scenario could result in a member having a system installed that does not meet the FreeState guidelines for interconnection. You could have invested a large sum of money on a renewable project that you are not able to use.

Most home renewable projects rely on a connection to the electric grid to both operate and provide the necessary return on investment. Grid connection is necessary for most home inverters to operate. You will need the grid to obtain power when your co-generation is not producing, and you’ll need to push any excess generation back onto the grid.

Bottom line. FreeState must approve all applications for grid interconnection. 

FreeState cautions all members. If you are considering home renewable projects such as wind turbines or solar panels, please check with the cooperative to make sure protocol is followed to get your co-generation system installed. We advise members to have an approved co-generation application before you make a significant purchase or let an installer begin construction. Checking with us protects you and your investment.

FreeState has a straightforward process designed to protect our members. Please refer to the following member checklist for step-by-step instructions on our process.  

Checklist for Interconnecting a UL 1741 Listed inverter-based Small Generating Facility No Larger than 10kW

CLICK TO DOWNLOAD 

 

  • Member receives Application for Interconnecting an Inverter-Based Small Generating Facility No Larger than 10kW (“Application”) along with Terms and Conditions for Interconnecting an Inverter-Based Small Generating Facility No Larger than 10kW
  • Member works with the vendor to choose a system and complete application
  • Member returns completed Application, one-line diagram, and $700 application and processing fee to FreeState Electric Cooperative (FEC)
  • FEC issues a Work Order   WO#_____________________
  • FEC approves or denies Application within 30 days
  • FEC returns a signed copy of Application to Member along with a Small Generating Facility Certificate of Completion
  • FEC completes upgrade of service (if required) and invoices Member for the upgrade cost
  • Member/Electrician completes installation of Small Generating Facility
  • Small Generating Facility is inspected by an electrical inspector as required by local code or by a Professional Engineer or electrician licensed in the state of  Kansas (See Terms and Conditions for details)
  • Member returns completed Small Generating Facility Certificate of Completion to FEC
  • FEC representative inspects Small Generating Facility
  • FEC installs a proper electric meter
  • FEC approves parallel operation of Small Generating Facility and returns signed Small Generating Facility Certificate of Completion to Member

If you have any questions about this process, please contact Matt Lambert or call 1-800-794-1989.

Ready to get started? 

NOTICE: FreeState must approve all applications for grid interconnection. 

Here are the forms you'll need. Please keep in mind that FreeState will work with your solar installation company, but it is important for members to stay in touch with FreeState during the process. 

FreeState's checklist for interconnecting 

Application

Terms and Conditions

Completion Certification

 

Contact Us About Solar!
How can I benefit from solar energy?

There are two options for Grid Interconnection with FreeState. 

  • Net Metering: The exchange with FreeState of your excess generation deducted from your consumption, by far the most popular choice. 
  • Parallel Generation: Where the member sells their generation to the coop for 150 percent of the wholesale cost and purchases their usage at the full retail rate. Essentially selling low and buying high. 

Members with residential solar arrays often benefit from available tax benefits and incentives, and they are also responsible for the system upkeep and all the up-front costs, which can be significant. With a battery or energy storage system, some residential solar arrays can provide backup power during extended outages.

How is renewable energy metered?

Energy generated by consumers is becoming more and more popular. As the cost of wind generators and solar panels continue to become more affordable, more and more people are installing these systems to help with their power needs. To accommodate FreeState Electric Cooperative members that wish to install a renewable energy source, we have developed rates to serve those members.

Net Metering 
Renewable Energy Source

Net metering allows a member to offset some or all of their electrical requirements with their own renewable generation source. The generation can be banked, regardless of the time of generation, and then credited back to the member at any time during the current billing cycle.

A meter will measure the exported (excess member generated power) versus the imported power (power provided by the cooperative) over a specific billing period. The member receives full credit for the exported power. Any excess exported (member-generated) power above and beyond the member's consumption is granted to the cooperative at the end of each billing cycle.

• Renewable generators for residential accounts have a maximum capacity of up to 15kW

• Renewable generators for commercial/industrial/religious institution/local government/state government/federal government accounts have a maximum capacity of up to 100kW • Renewable generators for school accounts have a maximum capacity of up to 150kW

 • Accounts with 10kW and less renewable generation may apply with the Small Generating Facility Application process. Accounts with more than 10kW may be required to pay for a Distributed Generation Impact Study.

• Available until total rated generating capacity of all net metered systems equals or exceeds 1 percent of the FEC's peak demand during the previous year

• Accounts shall appropriately size their generation to their expected load.

Parallel Generation 
Members also have the option to interconnect under two parallel generation riders where the member can sell exported (member-generated) power back to the cooperative at rates established by the Kansas Parallel Generation Act, which provides enhanced buyback for certain renewable energy generators qualifying under State law.

Parallel Rider A - Renewable Energy Source

Each billing cycle of approximately 30 days, the imported power (cooperative supplied power) is sold to the member at the retail rate; the exported power (member-generated power) is purchased by the cooperative at 150 percent of the wholesale monthly system average cost of energy per kWh. The generation and consumption are time-sensitive and banking is not allowed.

System-wide renewable generation sources are limited to a total capacity of 4 percent of FEC's peak demand under this Act.

• Renewable energy generators for residential accounts have a capacity of up to 25kW

• Renewable energy generators for commercial accounts have a capacity of up to 200kW

•Renewable generation installed in conjunction with irrigation systems can have no more than 10 pumps connected

 • Accounts with 10kW and less renewable generation may apply with the Small Generating Facility Application process. Accounts with more than 10kW may be required to pay for a Distributed Generation Impact Study.

• Accounts shall appropriately size their generation to their anticipated load.

Parallel Rider B - Non-Renewable Energy Source

This provides buyback for energy produced by non-renewable energy source generators up to 200kW. Each billing cycle of approximately 30 days, the imported power (cooperative supplied power) is sold to the member at the retail rate; the exported power (member-generated power) is purchased by the cooperative at 100% of the monthly system average cost of energy per kWh. The generation and consumption are time-sensitive and banking is not allowed.

What Is The Difference?
When a member considers whether to use "Net Metering" or "Parallel Generation", it is important to understand the differences. With "Parallel Generation" any exported power is measured by the meter and the cooperative purchases it from the member. With "Net Metering", any exported power is banked and can be withdrawn during each billing period. Excess exported power not withdrawn during the billing cycle is granted to the cooperative.

solar image
Can I benefit from solar even if I live in Kansas?

Many people mistakenly believe solar is only viable in the Southwest, where it’s hot and sunny much of the time. In fact, as temperatures rise, solar panels become less efficient. While we have less sunshine than Florida or Alabama, on those bright cold days solar panels can produce a lot of electricity. 

What is the value of electricity generated by solar?

The cost of installing solar arrays has fallen dramatically, and in some regions with high-cost electricity, solar is a cost-competitive option. It all depends on the circumstances.

For the developer, the cost of the array is a combination of initial costs and the operating costs over the projected life of the system, divided by the amount of electricity that system will produce. Systems in different regions of the country will provide different amounts of energy. Even with the declining costs, many solar systems may take ten years or more to return the investment.

Utility-scale solar can take advantage of economies of scale, including stream-lined production, installation, and materials. Utility-scale PV systems cost 50 percent less on a dollar-per-kW basis than residential systems.

What is an inverter? Why do I need one?

An inverter converts the electricity generated by solar panels, direct current (DC), into alternating current (AC), the electricity that can power your home.

PV Panels

How long do PV panels last? 
Assuming high-quality modules and proper maintenance, the life of a PV system should be 30 years or more. However, the efficiency of the panels will slowly degrade over time. PV modules typically have a warranty for 25 years to 80 percent of the original output. However, they will continue to provide power for many years after that.  What type of warranty and length provided by your solar installer is a crucial question to ask.

 

Are PV panels safe?
Yes, as long as they are correctly installed. There are fire risks associated with all electrical systems, including PV systems.  Module defects, improper installation, or even general wear and tear (visualize rodents chewing through wiring) can lead to fires. But these risks have been addressed in changes to local building and electrical codes. Many co-ops now offer education and training for fire departments.

 

Are all PV panels created equal?
While the efficiency of PV technologies is improving, because PV cells cannot respond to the entire spectrum of sunlight; up to 55 percent of the sun’s energy is wasted. The amount of energy produced by any given PV panel depends on four factors: the PV cell efficiency, the temperature response of the cells, the module layout, and the anti-reflective coating. Residential solar arrays should use high-efficiency modules, which allow more power to be installed in a smaller area.

 

Are PV panels environmentally friendly?
Yes, if the panel producer follows industry best practices.

 

Can PV panels be recycled?
Yes, but it’s not as easy as recycling newspapers. Some companies include recycling as part of their initial system price. End-of-life disposal of solar products in the US is governed by the Federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and state policies. Check with state or local agencies on recycling requirements.

Can solar energy be stored?

There are many different technologies for storing energy, including new residential battery options for adventurous consumers. 

Not only are the technology and applications for energy storage evolving rapidly, but the costs are also coming down. But overall this industry is still in the early stages. One thing we know for sure: the energy storage marketplace will look vastly different in a few short years.

And what about solar water heating?

Members can also take advantage of solar energy by using the sun to heat their water. Solar water heating (SWH), a technique that runs water through a tube covered in a heat-absorbing material located in a sunny place, is not tied to the electrical system and does not generate electricity. SWH and PV panels are not mutually exclusive and can be used together.  

Back to Top

Quick Links

  • Contact Us
  • News
  • Legal Info

Contact Info

McLouth Office
507 N. Union
PO Box 70
McLouth, KS 66054

Topeka Office
1100 SW Auburn Rd. 
Topeka, KS 66615

Toll-Free:800-794-1989

EMAIL US!

 

About Us

With 14,974 members and 20,551 service points FreeState Electric Cooperative is the largest rural electric cooperative in Eastern Kansas and the fifth largest rural electric cooperative in the state of Kansas. FreeState serves nine Kansas counties and provides distribution infrastructure to Fort Leavenworth. 

Follow Us Online

©2023 FreeState Electric Cooperative. All Rights Reserved.

  • Home
  • About Us
    • Board of Trustees
    • Cooperative Leadership
    • Powering Fort Leavenworth
    • Cooperative Transparency
    • About Touchstone Energy
  • Contact Us
    • Employment Opportunities
    • Media Inquiries
    • Submit Feedback
    • New Construction
    • Ask Matt
    • What is my district?
  • Member Services
    • Apply for Service
    • Payment Options
      • Understanding Your Bill
      • Payment Assistance
      • Pay Cash
      • Pay Now!
    • Capital Credits
    • Your Service
      • Security Options
      • Tree-Trimming
      • High Bill Concern
    • Member Programs
      • Attic Report Card
      • Medical Necessity Notification
      • Time of Use
    • Charges and Fees
    • Member Guide
    • Rebates
  • Outage Center
    • Outage Map
    • Preparing For Planned Outages
    • Social Feeds
    • Storm Updates
  • Communications
    • Connect With Us!
    • Energy Solutions Articles
    • Kansas Country Living
    • The Signal
  • Community Development
    • Co-op's Vote
    • CoBank Sharing Success
    • Local Sponsorships
    • Operation Round-Up
    • Youth Programs
    • FreeState Business Directory
  • Safety
    • Agriculture Safety
    • Emergency Preparedness
    • Generator Safety
    • Meter Access
    • Power Line Safety
    • Prepare for Winter Outages
    • Safety Checklist
    • Safety Demonstrations
    • Ten Tips To Avoid Scams
  • Co-op FAQ
  • SmartHub Mobile
    • Using SmartHub
  • Annual Meeting
    • Annual Report
    • Trustee Application
  • Crew at the Zoo
  • ESC Adjustment
  • Solar/EVs
    • All About EVs
    • Renewable Energy