Distributed Generation

Distributed generation (DG)is electric generation technologies that are decentralized and designed to supplement or replace power produced by large generating plants. In most cases, distributed generation is located at or near the point of use. Jo-Carroll Energy supports DG as a viable and sound means of meeting electric needs of various consumer groups.

Member-Owned Distributed Generation

For homeowners and farmers, DG examples include renewable energy systems such as solar photovoltaic arrays, small wind turbines, anaerobic digesters and microhydro projects. (Standby or emergency generators that run off gasoline, diesel fuel or natural gas are also considered distributed generation.)

If you’re considering a grid-connected distributed generation system for your home, please contact Jo-Carroll Energy first at 800-858-5522. We’re prepared to assist members while maintaining the safety of the grid. We want to help you choose a system that includes the safety and power quality components necessary to keep you, co-op crews and members of the community safe.  An interconnection agreement must be reviewed and signed before your system is connected to the grid. Jo-Carroll Energy is here to help you with an energy assessment, as well as safely interconnecting your system to your home or businesses and the electric distribution system. Visit the Member-Owned Distributed Generation page to better understand the interconnection process.

Evergreen Program

The Evergreen Program is a voluntary renewable energy "green power" program available through your local cooperative. Evergreen renewable energy comes from the wind, sun and waste-to-energy sources such as landfill gas and livestock manure. If you join the program, you pay a small extra charge each month to offset the additional cost of renewable generation, in addition to your normal electric bill. 

Community Solar

Jo-Carroll Energy's original community solar project, South View Solar farm, consists of 456 solar panels located at the Elizabeth headquarters. Members are able to purchase subscriptions to the solar farm.

Jo-Carroll Energy's newest community solar project, commissioned in 2020 offers subscriptions in increments of 2.5 kW for eligible subscribers.This exciting new project is located in one of our local communities, Apple Canyon Lake, IL. This solar project was enabled by sales from renewable energy credit (REC) through the, "Illinois Shines, the state-administered Adjustable Block Program. Learn more about this project by viewing our Community Solar Page.

Solar PhotoVoltaic (PV)

Solar energy systems, also known as solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, use a visible renewable resource - the sun. Solar systems are most effective when they are part of an energy efficiency home or business. Purchasing and installing a solar system can be a significant investment for a consumer. We recommend you carefully research the potential investment in making the best decision for your circumstances.

Wind

Probably the most well-known type of renewable energy is wind. Dairyland initially invested in wind during the 1990s with a one-third interest in a wind turbine farm in Chandler, Minn. This participation launched the Evergreen program. The Chandler farm continues to provide 2 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy, enough to power the homes of nearly 600 members.

Since then, Dairyland has greatly expanded its wind investment. In November 2017, Dairyland finalized an agreement to purchase the entire energy output of the 98 MW Quilt Block wind farm located near Darlington, WI that will produce enough clean electricity to power more than 25,000 households in Dairyland’s rural four-state service area. Quilt Block Wind Farm

Hydro

Hydropower has been used since ancient times to grind flour and perform other tasks. ​At the beginning of the 20th century, Hydropower became a sustainable long term way to provide electric across the United States. The Flambeau Hydroelectric Station, located on the Flambeau River, has been quietly generating electricity since 1951. To view the Flambeau Station, click the link below.

Flambeau Hydroelectric Station

Other Distributed Generation

Common types are standby or emergency generators that run off gasoline, diesel fuel or natural gas.

For more information on distributed generation visit the links below:

Top 10 Steps

Myths vs. Facts

FAQ

Glossary of Terms

*For questions and more information about our Distributed Generation program, please contact Jo-Carroll Energy at   800-858-5522 or email dg@jocarroll.com