Grid Interconnection Requirements (GIR)

by | Sep 27, 2026 | Resources

Download the Grid Interconnection Requirements (PDF)

The Grid Interconnection Requirements (GIR) set the rules and technical standards for connecting customer-owned solar (PV) systems to the SGCPC grid. They protect SGCPC technicians and the public, keep your system safe, and maintain power quality for every customer.

How big can my system be?

Customer solar is approved first-come, first-served until a grid-wide total of 250 kW-AC is reached. For each property, the allowed size is the smallest of:

  • A maximum cap of 30 kW
  • A size that keeps you a net consumer, based on your past year’s energy use
  • A distribution-circuit limit: 2 kW-AC plus your average demand for residential, or 15 kW-AC plus average demand for commercial

The GIR includes the formulas and worked examples.

The approval process

  1. Optional (recommended) pre-purchase conference with SGCPC
  2. Submit your Grid Interconnection Application (GIA). SGCPC responds within 21 days.
  3. Apply to the Ministry of Works for permits, including a copy of your approved GIA. Town Council approval is also required.
  4. Build the system.
  5. Ministry of Works final inspection, then SGCPC inspection and testing within 21 days of your request
  6. With passed inspections and proof of insurance, SGCPC installs a bi-directional meter and your system goes live.

Key conditions

  • You must be an SGCPC customer in good standing. Renters need the owner’s written approval.
  • Required liability insurance: $50,000 for systems up to 5 kW, $100,000 for 5–10 kW, and $250,000 over 10 kW.
  • Any change or expansion needs written approval from SGCPC and the Ministry of Works first.
  • SGCPC may inspect systems yearly and will disconnect systems that are unauthorized or non-compliant.

Technical requirements

  • Equipment must be UL-listed (including UL 1741 for inverters and UL 9540 for batteries).
  • Inverters must meet IEEE 1547 and allow SGCPC to limit output, or a remote shut-off switch is required.
  • Systems must stop exporting within set times when grid voltage or frequency goes out of range, and never back-feed the grid during an outage.
  • A visible, lockable AC disconnect at or near the SGCPC meter is required.
  • Limits apply to flicker, DC injection, and harmonic distortion. Rapid-shutdown devices are strongly recommended for rooftop arrays.

Download the Grid Interconnection Requirements (PDF)