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Clean Energy Solutions

What is a Distributed Energy Resource (DER)? Distribution System Capacity Information Map Capacity Allocation Model (CAM) DER Projects 10 kW or Less DER Projects Greater than 10kW Questions About Applying for a DER Project Questions About Applying for a DER Project Questions About Net Metering Accounts Key Terms Related to DERs Helpful Links

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What is a Distributed Energy Resource (DER)?

Distributed Energy Resources, also known as DERs, are electricity supply or demand resources that work alongside the electricity grid to support a cleaner, more flexible and resilient energy system.

These resources can include solar installations, battery storage, electric vehicles and other controllable loads across residential, commercial and industrial settings.

In Burlington, customers have several options for connecting DERs to the electricity grid, including Net Metering, Load Displacement and Backup Generation.

For all generation projects, contact our team — we’re here to assist you.

Net Metering

Net Metering allows Burlington Hydro customers who generate more electricity than they consume (such as through rooftop solar) to receive a credit on their bill for the surplus energy sent back to the grid. This helps offset future electricity costs and supports an environmentally responsible energy mix.

Load Displacement

Load Displacement involves generating electricity on-site, specifically to reduce the amount of power drawn from the grid. Common examples include solar arrays or combined heat and power systems used during peak hours to lower overall electricity demand. This approach can help businesses and large facilities manage energy costs more effectively while easing pressure on the grid.

Backup Generation

Backup Generation provides an additional layer of reliability by supplying temporary power during outages or disruptions. These systems (such as standby generators or battery storage) ensure critical operations can continue without interruption. While not used for regular power generation, backup systems are essential for enhancing resilience and maintaining safety during unexpected power interruptions.

Distribution System Capacity Information Map

Understanding the capacity of our electricity distribution system is an important first step when planning a new Distributed Energy Resource (DER) project.

Like all utilities, Burlington Hydro’s system has technical limits on how much electricity can be connected at any point on the network. Once these limits are reached, that portion of the system is considered fully utilized. Capacity levels vary across the system based on the equipment and infrastructure along the path from generator to customer.

To support commercial customers in making early, informed decisions, the Ontario Energy Board (OEB) provides a province-wide tool that displays estimated available capacity across local distribution networks. The OEB’s Centralized Capacity Information Map (CCIM) shows remaining capacity at both the station and feeder levels, offering helpful insight for potential DER and EV charging station connections.

View the Centralized Capacity Information Map

DER Hosting Capacity: Our Approach

Burlington Hydro assesses Distributed Energy Resource (DER) hosting capacity to understand how much additional generation or other DERs can connect to the distribution system while continuing to operate safely and reliably.

Hosting capacity is determined through engineering analysis of distribution stations and feeders, taking into account system capabilities, equipment limits, and operating conditions. These methodologies are guided by applicable technical standards, regulatory requirements, and Burlington Hydro’s engineering practices, and are used to support early planning and connection discussions.

View our DER Hosting Capacity Calculation Methodology

Next Steps to Connect a DER Project

Before we can connect a new DER project, Burlington Hydro must confirm that adequate electrical capacity is available at your proposed location.

  1. Check capacity availability: Begin by reviewing the OEB’s Centralized Capacity Information Map. This will help you determine whether your project may be feasible at the selected site.
  2. Submit a service request: If the map indicates that capacity may be available, please complete this general service request form to start a conversation with our team about your project requirements and next steps.

If you have any questions or would like assistance, our Engineering team is here to help.

Contact Us

Capacity Allocation Model (CAM)

The Ontario Energy Board (OEB) has introduced a Capacity Allocation Model (CAM) to ensure a fair and transparent allocation of system capacity and costs.

This applies when major system upgrades are needed to serve multiple new residential areas or customer connections in a specific development.

Under the CAM, system expansions provide major new distribution capacity—like building a transformer station or adding long distribution lines—when existing infrastructure can’t meet future demand. Unlike other models, CAM does not factor in projected revenues when calculating costs.

 

The CAM does not apply to single-customer expansions that can be completed within one year.

The CAM took effect on September 16, 2025. For detailed guidance on the methodology, please refer to Appendix I – Methodology for Implementing a Capacity Allocation Model of the Distribution System Code (DSC).

General Information

A Capacity Allocation Model may be used for large, multi-year developments where multiple residential projects require capacity beyond what the existing distribution system can supply. The purpose of the CAM is to ensure that both capacity and costs are allocated fairly among developers and ratepayers, following the standardized method outlined in the DSC.

Each developer requesting capacity under a CAM will contribute a portion of the project cost, based on their share of the total constructed capacity. Developers who choose not to make their full capital contribution in the first year of the CAM term will incur financing charges in addition to the contribution amount. Burlington Hydro will require payment or binding financial commitments for any agreed-upon capacity.

Typical Demand Values

To support consistent planning under the CAM, the following average demand estimates (kW) are used for residential units:

  • Low – 3kW
  • Medium – 6kW
  • High – 10 kW

Next Steps

If you are planning a development within a qualifying CAM area or would like to discuss capacity requirements, please reach out to our Engineering team. We’re here to support you throughout the process.

Related Content

Learn About Electric Vehicle Projects Read Conditions of Service, Section 2.1 Connections

DER Projects 12 kW or Less

DER 12kW or Less Application Process

Connecting a Distributed Energy Resource (DER) of 12 kW or less (such as a small solar installation) requires several steps to ensure safe, compliant, and reliable integration with Burlington Hydro’s system. Below is an overview of the process and what you can expect at each stage.

Before submitting a formal application, you may choose to begin with a preliminary consultation. To do this, submit the following forms to [email protected]:

  1. DER – Pre-Consultation Micro-Embedded Generation Form
  2. Permission to Release Account Information Form (required only if submitted by a third party)

You may also consult the Distribution System Capacity Map to identify areas with limited micro-generation capacity. If capacity is not available, Burlington Hydro will promptly inform you and withdraw the project to ensure clarity and transparency.

This initial request allows Burlington Hydro to review high-level project details and assess preliminary connection options. You will receive an email response outlining available capacity and considerations, helping you determine whether to proceed with a full application.

If you decide to move forward, submit the following:

  1. DER – Net Metering Connection Application (Form C)
  2. Single Line Diagram

It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure the project complies with all current technical requirements, including:

Burlington Hydro will review your application and confirm whether capacity is available. Within 30 days, you will receive a Connection Proposal Package, which includes an Offer to Connect and details on requirements and construction costs.

To accept the project and proceed, you must:

With acceptance complete, you may begin construction according to the Connection Proposal Package. You have 180 days from the Offer to Connect date to energize the project.

Before the connection can occur, Burlington Hydro must receive:

  • ESA Connection Authorization
  • Signed Offer to Connect
  • HST Form
  • Final payment as outlined in Step 4

You must contact Burlington Hydro to schedule installation of the new meter. Once installed, the project owner is responsible for energizing their equipment.

Burlington Hydro’s Billing Department will update your account and begin issuing DER credits as applicable, starting from the date the bi-directional meter is installed, and all commissioning steps are complete.

Please note: It is the project owner’s responsibility to monitor the status and performance of their generation system. Burlington Hydro does not report generation data or notify owners if generation stops.

Learn more about Burlington Hydro’s DER Connection Processes

DER Projects Greater than 12kW

DER Greater than 12kW Application Process

Connecting a Distributed Energy Resource (DER) greater than 12 kW (up to 500kW) (including larger solar installations, battery storage systems, or commercial-scale technologies) requires a detailed review and approval process to ensure safe, compliant, and reliable integration with Burlington Hydro’s grid. The summary below outlines each stage of the process and what you can expect along the way.

Before submitting a full application, you may choose to provide:

  1. DER – Pre-Consultation Over 12 kW Form
  2. Permission to Release Account Information (required if you are applying on behalf of someone else)

This early submission gives us an overview of your project and allows us to review connection details and available system capacity. Burlington Hydro will follow up by email to outline your options.

You may also consult the Distribution System Capacity Map to identify areas with limited micro-generation capacity. If capacity is not available, Burlington Hydro will promptly inform you and withdraw the project to ensure clarity and transparency.

 

For a Net Metering project over 10 kW (up to 500 kW), you must submit:

  1. DER – Connection Impact Assessment (CIA) Over 10 kW Application – Form B (stamped by a Professional Engineer)
  2. Single Line Diagram (stamped by a Professional Engineer)
  3. Site Plans (stamped by a Professional Engineer)
  4. Specification sheets for all inverters and generators
  5. Connection Impact Assessment fee
  6. Protection Philosophy with Checklist

ESA Connection Authorization is also required before final testing and energization.

Please email digital copies to [email protected] and mail hard copies to:

Burlington Hydro Inc.
Attn: Generation
1340 Brant St
Burlington, ON L7R 3Z7

Your application will not proceed until all documents and fees have been received. If revisions are needed, a Burlington Hydro engineering technician will guide you.

Once your application is validated and fees are paid, Burlington Hydro completes a Connection Impact Assessment.

  • If the project passes, a Connection Proposal Package is issued within 60 calendar days.
  • If it does not pass, Burlington Hydro will outline possible next steps.

To proceed, the Applicant must:

  • Sign and return the DER – Connection Agreement
  • Submit Schedule F: Contacts for Notice from the Connection Agreement
  • Pay all connection fees listed in the Offer to Connect Letter
  • Schedule and complete a pre-construction meeting (Four weeks’ notice required)
  • Build the project according to all approved standards, specifications, and designs
  • Submit an As-Built Single Line Diagram upon completion

You have one year from the date of the Offer to Connect Letter to energize the project.

Following project completion, the Electrical Safety Authority must send the ESA Authorization Certificate directly to Burlington Hydro at [email protected]. Burlington Hydro cannot accept this document from the applicant.

Once the ESA Authorization is received, you may schedule:

  • Installation of the bi-directional meter
  • Witness testing and commissioning

After commissioning, Burlington Hydro issues a Compliance Summary outlining pass/fail results and any required corrections. All deficiencies must be resolved before the lock on the DG disconnect can be removed.

Once cleared, Burlington Hydro will remove the lock, and the system may be energized.

Once energized, Burlington Hydro updates the account and begins applying credits for generated energy.

Project owners are responsible for monitoring system performance. Burlington Hydro does not track generation output or notify customers if production stops.

Example DER Fees and Connection Costs

Burlington Hydro reviews and processes Distributed Energy Resource (DER) connection requests to ensure projects can be safely and reliably accommodated on the local distribution system. As part of this process, certain fees and studies may apply depending on the size and characteristics of the proposed DER.

This webpage has been prepared by Burlington Hydro Inc.’s (“Burlington Hydro”) to provide Distributed Energy Resource (“DER”) applicants with information on Hydro One’s performance related to the estimation of DER connection costs (the “Guidance Document”), in particular, but not limited to, information on what a DER applicant can or cannot expect in terms of the accuracy of the estimates that Burlington Hydro will or has provided to the DER applicant during the connection process in respect of the cost of the work to be performed by Hydro One on its distribution system and where applicable, its transmission system to connect the DER applicant’s facility to Burlington Hydro’s distribution system.

Use of the Clean Energy Solutions Webpage is intended solely for information purposes and does not replace Burlington Hydro’s standard connection processes described above.

Burlington Hydro may revise or update the DER Guidance Document from time to time and recommends that any person referring to the DER Guidance Document confirm it is using the most recent version.

For DER facilities less than 12 kW, Burlington Hydro may require a Connection Impact Assessment (CIA) to evaluate potential impacts on the local distribution system.

Depending on the project size and configuration, a DER may qualify for a simplified CIA or may require a full CIA. Eligibility is confirmed by Burlington Hydro during the application review. The total assessment fee will not exceed the cost of a full CIA for a similar project size.

Example CIA Fee Structure (Illustrative)

If sufficient connection capacity is available, Burlington Hydro will issue a CIA along with a high‑level cost estimate for the connection work.

Clean Energy Solutions CIA Fee

Below is an example to illustrate multiple tiers of simplified CIA thresholds and the associated costs. Nameplate Capacity Size Simplified CIA Eligibility Fee
1. Small Projects <= 100 kW, Simplified (If project qualifies) Single-phase DER: • > 12 kW and ≤ 30 kW Three-phase DER: Connecting to a supply feeder with a voltage less than 15 kV • > 12 kW and ≤ 50 kW Connecting to a supply feeder with a voltage of 15 kV or greater: • > 12 kW and ≤ 100 kW $1,300.00 $1,469.00 (Including HST)
2. Inverter Based DER- Small Projects > 12 kW and ≤ 500 kW 1) All inverter based Three Phase generation projects that are: a)> 30 kW and ≤ 250 kW connecting to a BHI supply feeder with a voltage less than 15 kV; OR b) > 100 kW and ≤ 500 kW connecting to a BHI supply feeder with a voltage of 15 kV or greater. 2) Single phase inverter-based generation projects applications connecting to a BHI supply feeder that are greater than 12 kW. (if it does not qualify for a simplified CIA Note: Single phase generation project applications cannot exceed 75 kW. $5,413.00 $6,116.69 (Including HST)
3. Inverter Based DER- Mid-sized Projects > 500 kW and ≤ 10 MW 1) All inverter based Three Phase generation projects that are: 2) > 500 kW and ≤ 10MW connecting to a BHI supply feeder with a voltage of 15 kV or greater. $8,970.00 $10,136.10 (Including HST)
4. BESS and Inverter Based > 500 kW and ≤ 10 MW 1) All BESS and inverter based Three Phase generation projects that are: 2) > 500 kW and ≤ 10MW connecting to a BHI supply feeder with a voltage of 15 kV or greater. $10,950.00 $12,373.50 (Including HST)

Notes:

  • Burlington Hydro CIA fees are for all generation small project types including non-exporting, net metering and energy storage.
  • The CIA fees do not include the cost for Hydro One CIA or IESO SIA (if required).
  • All fees subject to change without
  • Contact Burlington Hydro for Synchronous (Non-Inverter Based) Generator Based CIA Project fees.
  • Contact Burlington Hydro for Transmission Customer Impact Assessment
  • Contact Burlington Hydro for IESO System Impact Assessment fees (>10MW).

Burlington Hydro provides examples of completed Distributed Energy Resource (DER) connection projects to help customers understand how connection costs can vary. The document below shows a selection of projects completed within the past two years and highlights where actual costs differed from initial estimates, along with the key factors that contributed to those differences.

Refer to Burlington Hydro’s Cost Variance Guidance

Burlington Hydro provides general information about common costs associated with connecting Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), including:

  • Micro‑embedded generation facility connection costs
  • Connection Impact Assessment (CIA) fees
  • Other common connection costs for DERs with a nameplate capacity of 250 kW or less
Refer to Burlington Hydro’s General Information on Other Common Costs for DERs

In some cases, a DER project may require transfer trip protection. Transfer trip is a protection and control system that automatically disconnects a DER when certain conditions occur on the upstream Hydro One system, such as a fault, loss of supply, or increased risk of islanding.

Transfer trip requirements are determined by Hydro One, not Burlington Hydro, and typically apply to larger or exporting DER projects or where upstream system conditions require additional protection.

Transfer trip costs may include:

  • Protection and control equipment
  • Telecommunications infrastructure (such as leased phone lines or radio communications)
  • Engineering design, testing, and commissioning
  • Ongoing telecommunications or maintenance costs, where applicable

Where required, transfer trip costs form part of the overall DER connection costs paid by the customer and are identified through Hydro One’s assessment process.

For more information on transfer trip requirements, customers can refer to:

DER Project Connection Cost Guidance – Hydro One Distributed Generation Technical Interconnection Requirements – Hydro One

Questions About Applying for a DER Project

All digital application forms are available on this page. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Contact Us

Your application will be reviewed by Burlington Hydro and, where applicable, other involved utilities. Every project must also be approved by the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) to ensure safe and compliant installation.

For a detailed breakdown of all stages, deadlines, and requirements, please refer to Burlington Hydro’s DER Connection Processes. This guide summarizes the standardized procedures and forms established by the Ontario Energy Board (OEB) for connecting Distributed Energy Resources.

It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure compliance with all current technical standards, including:

  1. Burlington Hydro’s standards and specifications (provided in your Connection Proposal Package)
  2. ESA’s Electrical Guidelines for Inverter-Based Micro-Generating Facilities (10 kW and Smaller)
  3. Burlington Hydro’s Conditions of Service
  4. Ontario Regulation 541/05 (Net Metering)

Our team will guide you through these requirements as part of the connection process.

For requirements and guidelines associated with the connection of an embedded generation projects greater than 10kW, please refer to the following documents:

  1. ESA Guidelines 
  2. Ontario Regulations for Net Metering 
  3. Burlington Hydro’s Conditions of Service 
  4. Distribution System Code
  5. Technical Interconnection Requirements (TIR)

Our team will guide you through these requirements as part of the connection process.

Yes. Applications may be rejected if requirements are not met or if deadlines are missed. We encourage applicants to review all materials carefully to avoid delays.

Questions About Net Metering Accounts

Once your project is energized, Burlington Hydro will automatically convert your account to Net Metering. Each month, the energy you generate is credited against the energy you consume — calculated in dollar values.

If your system produces more than you use, the surplus becomes a credit bank, which carries forward for up to 12 months. Most customers build credits in the summer and use them through the winter.

Please note: Net Metering does not generate income. Any remaining credits after 12 months reset to zero.

You may choose from any of our three RPP price plans: Time-of-Use, Tiered, or Ultra-Low Overnight. Visit our price plan page for details.

To activate a DER account, you must:

  • Have an active load account with Burlington Hydro
  • Complete the Net Metering application process
  • Have a bi-directional meter installed (installed only after the DER application process is complete)

If you have an HST registration number, please include it in your application. If not, simply indicate this on the form. After DER credits are applied each month, any remaining charges on your bill will still include HST.

If you sell your property while the system remains installed, generation credits apply to your account until the final date you are the account holder. After that, the account is reset.

The new homeowner will receive credits beginning on the property transfer date and will need to complete a new Connection Agreement with Burlington Hydro.

You will continue to receive a monthly statement, just as you do with any Burlington Hydro account. The layout will remain the same, with the addition of a line item showing your monthly generation credit.

No. Your Net Metering account will continue to include the same monthly fees as your standard Burlington Hydro account.

No. Net Metering credits are applied only to the account where the energy is generated and cannot be transferred to another location.

Key Terms Related to DERs

Term  What It Means 
DG Disconnect  A safety device that allows your generator to be safely disconnected from the utility’s system when maintenance or repairs are needed, protecting both you and hydro crews. 
Distributed Generation  Small-scale renewable energy systems that produce electricity close to where it’s used, such as rooftop solar. 
Export Capacity   Export capacity is the maximum amount of electricity that a DER is permitted to export to the distribution system at any one time. Export capacity may be equal to or lower than the DER’s nameplate capacity and is established through the connection assessment and approval process.  
Generation Credit  Bill credits you receive for excess electricity your system sends back to the grid once your Net Metering agreement is in place. 
Inverter  A device that converts direct current (DC) from sources like solar panels or batteries into alternating current (AC) used in your home or business. 
kW (Kilowatt)  A unit of power used to measure the size or output of an energy system. 
Local Distribution Company (LDC)  Your local hydro utility, such as Burlington Hydro, is responsible for delivering electricity to your home or business. 
Nameplate Capacity  The maximum rated electricity-generating capacity of your system, based on the connected inverter. 
Renewable Fuel  Clean energy sources such as solar, wind, battery storage, renewable biomass, biogas, landfill gas, and water power. 
Renewable Generating Facility  A system that produces electricity entirely from renewable energy sources, such as a solar installation. 
RPP Pricing  Electricity pricing options under the Regulated Price Plan, including Tiered, Time-of-Use, and Ultra-Low Overnight rates. 
SCADA  A system used by utilities to monitor and manage the electricity grid in real time for safe and reliable operation. 
Solar Array  A group of connected solar panels working together to generate electricity. 

Helpful Links

ESA Guidelines  

Burlington Hydro’s Conditions of Service

Ontario Energy Board (OEB)