The Interconnection Challenge in Renewable Energy Projects
One of the biggest hurdles renewable energy projects face isn’t the technology, the funding, or even the permitting. It’s something far less visible: the interconnection process.
Interconnection is the step where your project, whether it’s a community solar array, a wind farm, or a microgrid, must physically and legally connect to the electrical grid. It’s an essential part of the journey, but it’s also one of the most time-consuming and complex. Developers and communities are often surprised at how long this step can take and how much it can impact project timelines and budgets.
Why Interconnection Delays Happen and How to Navigate Them
Why does it take so long? For one, the grid wasn’t built to easily accommodate distributed renewable energy. Utilities have to evaluate each new project carefully to ensure it won’t overload lines, disrupt service, or cause safety issues. That means studies, engineering reviews, and in some cases, costly grid upgrades. The process is even slower when transmission systems are already congested or understaffed, which is becoming more common across the country.
The result is a long line of projects waiting for approval. For communities that are eager to take control of their energy future, that wait can feel frustrating. But there are ways to prepare and stay ahead. Starting with a strong feasibility study can help identify potential interconnection challenges early. Building relationships with your utility and understanding their requirements before you even submit an application can save valuable time. And most importantly, staying flexible with project design and location can help you adapt when unexpected hurdles appear. These are all things SBI specializes in.
The reality is that interconnection will likely remain a challenge until the grid itself becomes more modern, flexible, and ready to handle the surge of renewable energy coming online. But communities that go into the process informed and prepared are far more likely to see their projects succeed.
If you’re considering renewable energy development, ask yourself this: what steps can you take now to make the interconnection process smoother later? The answer could be the difference between a project that gets built and one that remains on the drawing board.