Connecting your system to the grid


At CenterPoint Energy, we help with your Distributed​ Energy Resource application and interconnection process.  When connecting solar panels to the grid, it must be done safely so electricity generated by the panels can be integrated into the existing electrical infrastructure, as we​ll as for the safety of customers, utility personnel and others.​​

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Interconnection process

Along with electricity from the utility grid, the connection of a secondary electricity source is called "interconnection." To enjoy the benefits of solar, you must work with your installer to complete the interconnection steps below.

​Customer Inquiry and​​​​​​ Application
 ​CenterPoint Energy design and review
 ​Construction
 ​CenterPoint's final review
 ​PTO issued
​Customer’s installer company applies online through the utility grid interconnection portal
 ​CenterPoint reviews and accepts the design plans
 ​Customer’s installer begins construction 
 ​CenterPoint reviews after construction is completed and Installer confirms “as built” design plans
 ​Permission to operate (PTO)​ is issued and the solar panels are ready for use 

Understanding who does what

​​Roles and responsibilities of a solar installation.
​Customer:
(Electricity account holder)
 ​Complete all paperwork and agreements with the Customer's installer company of choice, the Customer's billing Retail Electric Provider (REP) of choice and others as applicable (e.g., Homeowner Association (HOA)). Contact the Customer's REP to setup billing details and for all matters related to billing. 
​Installer:
(Solar panel company)
 ​Handle all Customer-owned (and/or leased) equipment. Provide all design specifications. Secure all applications and permits needed both to install and operate the system. Construct the system in conjunction with the ​Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), Utility and federal/state/local requirements.
​Retail Electric Provider (REP):
(See company shown on customer electricity bill)
 ​Provide all electricity billing (buy/sell) information to the Customer, including details on any buy-back programs offered for the Customer to earn electricity billing credits for unused, excess generation exported to the grid (if applicable, as buy-back options and availability vary by REP).
​Utility:
(CenterPoint Energy)
 ​Approve and issue the Interconnection Agreement (ICA) and Permission to Operate (PTO). Maintain and operate the Utility meter device on site (automatically, remotely reprogrammed to capture excess generation export readings). ​

​​Helpful links

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​Can I use a portable generator with my solar system?
If you are interested in installing a portable generator and a transfer switch (ATS), you will need to register the equipment with our ATS team. More information on ATS can be found here. All ATS-related questions can be sent to ATS.Approvals@CenterPointEnergy.com. Find more information on how to request ATS approval here​.
​The home I just bought/rented has solar panels. How can I turn on the solar system?
You will need to contact us at Residential.DG@CenterPointEnergy.com and go through the application process before turning on your solar system. Once you have gone through the process, we will email a revised Interconnection Agreement (ICA) to you for signature. After the ICA is signed by all parties, the Permission to Operate (PTO) will be sent, and the meter reprogrammed.
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