Energy
By setting up a self-service distributed generation Interconnection portal between the utility and installers, they reduced processing time from 4 weeks down to 7 days.
As the largest energy delivery company in their state, our utility customer is tasked with providing electricity to millions of customers safely, reliably, and around the clock.
They were also faced with thousands of applications every month for distributed generation (DG) interconnections. These were causing backlogs that stretched issuing the Permission to Operate permit well past the typical 30-day timeframe. Installers would find themselves with solar panels and other DERs in place and ready to go, but not be able to power up these valuable assets. This threatened to increase rates, deteriorate energy accessibility, and erode customer confidence.
The utility realized they needed a way to make the application process more efficient. Their customers needed a clear and simple process that did not discourage the growth of DG resources. And they had to do it while complying with FERC and local ISO guidelines.
The utility had a clear goal: make a program that was easy for installers to use and to provide fast application processing and approval with zero complaints.
They needed to auto-populate basic consumer information with project identifying info and digital signature processing. And it needed to be seamlessly automated and highly accurate.
And, most importantly, the digital platform had to meet local and federal guidelines.
They chose a proven solution already trusted by 25+ utilities.
DNV’s low-code and workflow‑driven digital platform that utilities configure themselves, without heavy IT dependence, to manage the entire DG interconnection lifecycle, from application intake through permit to operate.
By configuring their own data, workflows, rules and reporting, utilities gain control over the DG interconnection process without being locked into rigid structures or long IT development cycles. Automation reduces manual effort, improves consistency, and creates a more transparent experience for customers, installers, and internal stakeholders alike.
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More efficient |
More productiveBefore implementation, the utility was processing around 15,800 applications per year. They are now processing 42,000 in that same time, with no increase in staff or resources.
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Added capabilitiesThe utility now processes around 100 applications per month that are fully automated, with no input from personnel. This is a capability they never had before.
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