Rooftop Solar and Private Generation

Will DTE pay me for excess energy that I generate and outflow to the grid?

Yes. Customers generating electricity from renewable energy resources can be compensated for their excess generation. Customers with on-site renewable generation of 150 kW or less can qualify for service under DTE’s Distributed Generation program (Rider 18). For systems that do not meet the size or other qualification requirements of Distributed Generation, customers may call 313.235.4333.

What is inflow and the inflow charge?

Inflow is the electricity the customer uses from DTE and their distribution system. The inflow charge is for electricity flowing into a customer’s premise and is determined by the customer’s rate schedule.

What is outflow and the outflow credit amount?

Outflow is the electricity generated by the customer’s Distributed Generation project that is not used on-site and is instead sent to the electric grid. The outflow credit is the rate for each unit of energy in kilowatt-hours (kWh) that is exported from the customer to DTE’s distribution system. This credit is based on the power supply component of the customer’s retail rate, minus transmission charges. Outflow credits can be used in each billing period to offset power supply charges on the bill of the rate schedule to which Rider 18 is attached.

How does DTE estimate what size solar system a customer can install under the Distributed Generation program?

The program stipulates that the system is sized so the annual generation does not exceed the annual usage of the meter it is serving. Customers with questions regarding appropriate system sizing can call the DTE hotline at 313.235.4333.

Does DTE require Distributed Generation or Net Metering customers to install battery storage?

No. DTE does not require customers to install battery storage.

Does a customer need to notify DTE if they are planning to add a battery storage system?

Yes. It is important for DTE to confirm that the customer’s battery will not interact with the distribution system. Both new and existing customers adding battery storage need to notify DTE, so the company can update the system information and help ensure the customer maintains eligibility for service under Distributed Generation or Net Metering. To submit a new application with the addition of a battery storage system, please visit DTE’s PowerClerk site.

Why is my battery storage not permitted to discharge energy to the grid?

Battery storage systems do not qualify as a renewable energy resource and therefore are not permitted to discharge energy back to the distribution system.

A customer owns or is considering purchasing an emergency generator for their home and business. Can they sell back the energy they don't use?

No. Customers cannot sell back energy from an emergency backup generator. An emergency generator is not an approved renewable energy resource and therefore is not eligible. Businesses with a generator that is 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 the DTE. For more information, call 800.482.8720 and select option #4.

Why are Net Metering customers being switched to the Distributed Generation Program?

By law, existing Net Metering customers will be converted to the Distributed Generation upon reaching their 10-year anniversary of participation in the Net Metering program. DTE will notify the customers of their upcoming 10-year anniversary in the Net Metering program approximately 30 days prior to their rate conversion via email.

Upon converting from Net Metering to Distributed Generation, will customers lose their Excess Generation Bank?

No. Customers converting to the 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 Distributed Generation program does not affect SolarCurrents contracts. The SolarCurrents contracts were for the purchase of renewable energy credits for 20 years and will continue under the new program.

Can a customer expand their existing project size and remain on Net Metering?

A customer can expand their system; however, if they do, the entire system will be moved to the Distributed Generation program, not just the expansion.

Can a Distributed Generation (DG) customer enroll in the MIGreenPower program?

Yes, a DG customer can enroll in the MIGreenPower program as a simple and effective way to become a net zero carbon emission customer. Under DG, customers inflow electricity from the grid and receive credit for any outflow. As a result, DG customers may be interested in “greening” all their energy. In order to calculate the MIGreenPower subscription customers will need to look at their annual inflow and outflow. See below for a simple example:

Does DTE recommend working with particular solar installers?

No. DTE does not provide installer recommendations. However, Michigan Saves maintains a list of solar installers in Michigan. We encourage customers to do their research as they would for any major project or purchase. Consider requesting quotes from multiple companies, visiting the Better Business Bureau’s website, and reading reviews from credible sources.

Will customers who install solar on their home still lose power if DTE has a power outage?

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.

A customer just purchased a home with solar panels, what do they need to do?

First, they should transfer the electric service into their name by calling 800.477.4747. Then they need to call the DTE Interconnection Hotline at 313.235.4333 and provide their name and address to have a new application created and approved. The 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.