SEPTEMBER 2021
THE MESSENGER A Publication for North Arkansas Electric Cooperative Members
Thinking about solar? Learn how to connect to grid safely North Arkansas Electric Cooperative does not sell or install solar installations, but a co-op engineer must review any net-metering installation prior to it connecting to the distribution system. An improperly installed solar array can backfeed electricity onto the grid during an outage. That electricity could prove fatal for a coop employee repairing the line or a member of the public. Information on the process of connecting a solar installation to NAEC’s distribution system, including the standard interconnection agreement, is found in the co-op’s tariff filed with the Arkansas Public Service Commission. Visit naeci.com/ service-specifications for a PDF. Additional information regarding net metering sizing, ownership requirements, purchase pricing, etc. is found in the APSC’s net metering rules. Find them at apscservices.info/ rules.asp. Members with questions about the purchase, installation or net metering of a solar array can call 870-895-3221 or email info@naeci.com. Co-op personnel in the engineering and billing departments can help. With any net-metering facility, NAEC encourages members to consider the payback and ensure estimates provided by installers are using NAEC’s kWh rates and taking into consideration the minimum daily charge. NAEC recommends looking for any needed energy efficiency improvements, such as a more efficient heat pump or additional insulation, before installing solar. An NAEC energy adviser can offer suggestions on improving your home’s energy efficiency, which will lower energy costs. They may be reached at 870895-3221 or info@naeci.com.
Newly cut right-of-way near Clarkridge will help provide reliable electricity to area members. Falling trees and branches are one of the leading causes of outages on NAEC’s system.
Right-of-way maintenance essential for power quality Falling trees and branches are one of the leading causes of power outages and power quality issues on North Arkansas Electric Cooperative’s system. Co-op personnel and contractors work throughout the year to maintain a clear right-of-way — the land below, above and on either side of the power lines — of trees, branches and other vegetation that could lead to an outage or affect power quality through blinks. Maintaining the right-of-way through tree-trimming and removal is not only NAEC’s responsibility, but it also is required by the Arkansas Public Service Commission and the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration to maintain reliability and safety. The co-op owns all electric poles, wire and equipment on the system, and NAEC employees and contractors need access to inspect and make any necessary repairs at all times. Right-of-way is measured on either side of the pole or equipment. In the past, NAEC maintained 30-foot easements (15 feet on each side), but new easements are 60 feet (30 feet on each side). “We ask members to be mindful that we must have access to the property to trim trees, repair damage from an outage or make system improvements,” General Foreman Shannon Bassham said. “We’ve had situations where members have built structures or parked vehicles within the co-op’s easement that make it difficult to reach the lines.” Members can help NAEC maintain the right-of-way by: • Considering the mature height of trees and shrubs before planting in or near NAEC’s easement. • Contacting NAEC at 870-895-3221 if a dead tree is in danger of falling on NAEC’s lines or if branches are touching the lines. • Keeping the area on either side of the lines or equipment clear of vehicles, deer stands, buildings or other structures. • Considering the placement of fences within the easement, knowing that NAEC will need access to the power line.