Technical Information for Contractors

Contractors installing solar in Con Edison service territory can refer to our Solar Guide (PDF) for general information on interconnection and rates. 

It’s important that you understand our energy grid before planning your solar project. Depending on the size of the solar system, where you will install it, and what type of service is required, you may need to do some upgrades before you can connect to our energy grid.

Energy grid connections generally fall under one of the following three categories:

Radial Service

Radial grids traditionally have a single high voltage cable, often referred to as a feeder, sending energy from the substation via transformers to customers. Cables and transformers on radial grids are often above ground in places like Staten Island and Westchester.

This configuration is the easiest for export, but projects may require upgrades based on existing photovoltaic penetration and size compared to service or transformers, and any switch or re-closer issues.

Network Grid Service

Network grids have multiple primary feeders feeding several network transformers tied together in parallel on the secondary side to feed energy into a low voltage grid (area network type) or local building bus (spot network) where the consumer is connected. Thousands of low voltage customers are served off the low voltage grid of an area network. Cables and transformers on network grids are typically below ground and are used in densely populated areas. Network grids are used extensively throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, with a few small network grid areas in Staten Island and Westchester.

The ability to export is dependent on photovoltaic size in relation to load. Upgrades may require street work, which can add additional costs and time to a project.

Isolated/Spot Network Service

Spot networks are a special class of network grids where one or multiple transformers are dedicated to one large energy-consuming building like a skyscraper. A spot network is essentially a small network grid that is implemented for a single large user.

This generally only applies to larger-load buildings and will require upgrades to allow export. If your project involves isolated or spot network service and you would like more information, please contact us at DGExpert@conEd.com.

In order to ensure reliability and safety for all customers, detailed specifications must be submitted for review and approval.