Interconnecting non-utility generators to BC Hydro´s transmission network

The cost of interconnection is an important factor in Non Utility Generator (NUG) overall project costs. This cost has to be minimized without compromising the safety or reliability of the transmission system. The lowest cost interconnection is a transmission line tap. However, low cost taps may negatively impact transmission system performance and protection system performance. The negative impacts can often be mitigated with increasing complexity (and cost) of the interconnection. This paper describes BC Hydro´s experience with studying interconnection proposals, using internally developed protection criteria to minimize costs while retaining acceptable protection performance.