Required Notification

Iowans must give their utility 30 days’ notice before installing alternative energy sources such as solar panels or wind generators.

Since January 2013, when Iowa House File 2301 went into effect, Iowa residents installing any renewable energy system that will be attached to an electric transmission or distribution line are required to notify their utility at least 30 days prior to construction.

Renewable energy production facilities include:

  • Solar or solar photovoltaics (PV)

  • Wind turbines

  • Waste management and resource recovery systems

  • Refuse-derived fuel systems

  • Agricultural crops or residues

  • Wood-burning facilities used to generate electricity

Notice Requirements:
The facility owner must provide written notification to their utility of the intent to construct or install the facility at least 30 days before construction begins. The notice must include:

  • The type of facility being installed

  • The anticipated completion date of construction

Why this matters:
This legislation helps protect power line workers. During a power outage requiring line work, crews must be aware of any connected generation sources. Without proper safeguards, power from a member’s alternative energy source could feed back onto the line, putting workers at risk.

When contacted about renewable generation, Franklin REC will advise members on the devices required at the interconnection point to prevent power from flowing back onto the grid.

“Safety is number one,” said Chad Foster, Energy Services Director at Franklin REC. “Communication between members and the co-op is very important when it comes to installing an energy source. We want members to know that if they buy a small wind turbine or install solar panels, voltage can still get stepped up through the transformer and go back out onto the grid, where it can injure people unaware that it is connected.”

Additional Resources & Interconnection

Review Franklin REC’s Tariff Information.

To request an Application for Interconnection, contact Franklin REC at 641-456-2557.