Who is eligible to participate in the HBPW Distributed Generation Program?

To be eligible for HBPW’s Distributed Generation Program:

1. Participant must be an HBPW electric customer on Rate A, B, K or M and have an average load factor of 30 percent or greater.
2. Customer’s electric generator must be fueled by a qualified renewable energy source such as wind, solar, biomass, hydro, geothermal, energy storage systems, cogeneration, or other approved renewable sources.
3. The nameplate capacity of the renewable generator may not exceed 550 kW.
4. The renewable generator may not be sized to exceed the customer’s annual electricity needs based on the previous 12 months.
5. Customer must meet approved Interconnection requirements before participating in this program.

How do I apply for Distributed Generation Program?

Once you are ready to move forward with a Distributed Generation install, start by filling out the online application [here]. The customer or main contact on the project will be contacted by the HBPW with the next required applications and technical documentation. A flow chart of the full process can be seen below.

Note: local permits, inspections, and additional items may be required by other entities than the HBPW. A typical install would require a permit from the City/Township and approval from HBPW before build. After the build is complete the install would need to pass inspection through the permitted entity and pass testing through the HBPW before being powered on.

What should I expect during the Distributed Generation application process?

Flow Chart: Distributed Generation Application Process

Can I generate more energy than I use?

No, the HBPW allows for a Distributed Generation System sized to the amount of energy used over the past 12-month average. An oversized system, or a system accounting for future load, is not allowed at this time.

How does this affect my bill?

Participating customers will be billed based on the total inflow purchased from HBPW according to their existing rate, minus applicable outflow credits for the power sent back to HBPW during periods of excess generation. The credit will match the rate code for a given customer and will be based on amount of energy generated. If the value of the outflow energy generated by the renewable energy source is greater than the value of the inflow energy supplied by HBPW, in a given monthly billing period, the excess value will be forfeited. No generation credits are granted towards future billings.

Regardless of generation amount, the customer is always responsible for the following charges: Readiness to Serve, Delivery, Capacity (if applicable), as well as sales tax.

What if I want to use renewables, but don’t want the upfront cost or equipment on my property?

Look into our Elective Renewable Energy Rate. 15% of the energy you receive from Holland BPW already comes from renewable sources. You also have the option to purchase more renewable energy from HBPW in 5% increments. Electing 85% will get you to 100% renewable energy! Learn More

Who can I talk with to find out more?

For help with technical or process related questions, please call 616-355-1603 and ask for Electrical Engineering.

For assistance with Energy Smart Program, rebates, car chargers, or other energy efficiency questions, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 616.355.1662

Are there any fees associated with my application for Distributed Generation?

Yes, there are fees associated with the Distributed Generation application process. After you submit the online Distributed Generation Application, we will contact you to discuss all of the requirements. Additional documentation and an Interconnect Evaluation processing fee of $100  are required to advance through the application process. Payment must be submitted with the additional documentation.  Only complete submittals will be reviewed.

In some cases, a more in-depth study is needed. In those cases, additional costs may apply.

What is an Interconnect Evaluation?

Distributed Generation involves an electric interconnection with the HBPW system. Electric interconnections with the HBPW system require our engineers to evaluate the design, ensuring that no dangerous back feed can occur. This process is important to the safety of our linemen.