PUC to host interconnection workshop in March

PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Public Utilities Commission will host an interconnection workshop March 18-19, 2008, in Pierre. This will be the first of several workshops designed to develop a statewide best practices model for connecting small generating facilities to the electric grid. The event will be held at the Kings Inn Hotel and Conference Center, 110 E. Sioux Ave.

Anyone with an interest in electric interconnection is welcome to attend. Developers with knowledge and experience with distributed generation producing 20MW or less are particularly encouraged to attend and provide input. Other participants include representatives of South Dakota's investor-owned utilities.

There is no registration fee to attend the workshop. Participants are responsible for their own travel, lodging and meal expenses. Pre-register for the workshop by Feb. 22 by contacting Nathan Solem with the PUC at Nathan.Solem@state.sd.us or 1-800-332-1782.

Facilitators from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, The Regulatory Assistance Project and the Environmental Law and Policy Center will lead the workshop.

A special lodging room rate has been arranged with the Kings Inn Hotel. Call 1-800-232-1112 or (605) 224-5951 before March 3, 2008 to receive the reduced rate. Mention "PUC Conference" when making reservations.

Contact Nathan Solem of the PUC for additional information.

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