Interest in renewable energy is growing across our community, and BPUB is here to help you make informed decisions. This page explains how solar, small wind, and backup power systems work. It also covers what BPUB requires and how to connect your system safely to the electric grid.
Solar Power
Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity. Photovoltaic (PV) cells are grouped into panels. Multiple panels form an array, usually installed on a roof or in an open field, that can power a home or business. Equipment costs continue to fall, making solar a sound long-term investment.
Start with our Solar Education Program before you talk to a vendor. You will learn how solar works, how to compare proposals and pricing, and what equipment BPUB requires.
Small Wind Turbines
Small wind turbines capture the energy of the wind to generate electricity. Two or three blades spin a shaft connected to a generator. The rotor swivels automatically to face the wind and capture as much energy as possible. Like solar systems, small wind turbines can be interconnected with the BPUB grid.
Backup Generators and Batteries
Many customers install a backup generator or battery system to keep power flowing during an outage. If your system activates only during outages, you do not need an Interconnection Agreement or any other BPUB approval before installing it.
These systems still have safety requirements. The rules below protect your home, your equipment, and the line crews working to restore power.
For additional information, contact our Electrical Engineering Department.
Electrical Engineering
Selling Your Excess Energy Back to BPUB
BPUB does not offer rebates for solar installation, but we do offer an energy buyback program. When your system produces more electricity than you use, the excess flows back onto the BPUB grid. BPUB purchases that excess from you at the current Fuel and Purchase Energy Charge (FPEC) rate.
How to Get Connected
Ready to move forward with solar? Follow these steps to interconnect your system with the BPUB grid.
Do your homework
Review the Solar Education Program page and the Solar Installation Customer Checklist, then request your free proposal evaluation before you sign anything.
Check permits, restrictions, and incentives
Confirm permitting requirements with the City of Brownsville, verify that your homeowners association allows solar panels or wind turbines, and ask a licensed tax professional about federal credits.
Submit the required forms
Send BPUB your interconnection one-line diagram, NEM Program Interconnection Agreement, Solar Installation Customer Checklist, and Solar System Attributes Form.
Meter change and turn-on
BPUB installs a PV meter to track production and a bi-directional meter to measure energy in both directions. The two meters cost $100, and your solar contractor and a BPUB representative turn the system on together.