Spring 2025 | Edition 32
NOVA Power Portal™ Software Spotlight
Renewable energy continues to be a popular topic with electric consumers. At STAR, we’ve seen the effects of the interest in renewable energy through the use of NOVA Power Portal™. NOVA Power Portal™ is a software solution designed to help utilities track, manage, and optimize every step of the DER interconnection process, making it easier to handle high volumes of applications while ensuring compliance and timely communication.
Features Include:
Customizable Management Queue: Tailor the system to your unique interconnection process, configuring each milestone and ensuring a smooth workflow from application to approval.
Real-Time Notifications + Reminders: Automated email updates keep your team and stakeholders informed, reducing delays and preventing missed deadlines.
Customer + Vendor Portal: Simplify the application process for customers and vendors with an intuitive portal to submit applications and required documentation.
End-to-End Tracking: Monitor and manage every interconnection application at every stage, providing transparency and accountability.
Scalable + Secure: Built to support growing needs while ensuring the highest levels of data security and regulatory compliance.
DEVELOPER SPOTLIGHT
Melissa Knott, Senior Software Developer / with STAR since 2015
Key Projects:
NOVA Power Portal™
Mobilization of PYXIS OMS™
Municipal Water Utility Reading & Reporting App
Broadband Subscriber Management Portal
Custom Outage Maps
Custom Data Integration Tools
Favorite Quote:
“The answers are always in the data.”
NOVA™ STATS
1,200 applications signed and submitted in 2024
Over 6,000 applications signed and submitted since 2019 launch
Approximately 174,000 kWac DER system applications processed through NOVA™ since launch
Used by 90 cooperative and municipal utilities in the Midwest
DER TIDBITS
Distributed Energy Resources (DER) include solar, wind turbines, energy storage, and generators. On a much smaller scale, these “resources” generate electricity located close to where the electricity will be used.
NOVA™ TESTIMONIAL
"Using NOVA for processing DER applications is a game changer. It automates and streamlines the entire process, eliminating the worry of missed deadlines or mistakes. Its ease of use ensures a smooth experience, giving us confidence that every application is handled accurately and efficiently. Plus, the built-in document library puts all the information our members and installers need in one location—accessible at the click of a button. NOVA takes the stress out of DER processing, making our work faster, simpler, and more reliable than ever before. I highly recommend."
—Allison Frederickson, Member & Energy Services Manager at Todd-Wadena Electric Cooperative
Interconnection: The Role of Utilities and Customer Education
Across our service territory, we have seen a rapid adoption of Distributed Energy Resources (DER). The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) has reported the United States has had an average solar adoption annual growth rate of 26% over the last ten years. In Minnesota, interconnections have increased 235% since 2020. With this growth, utilities, by default, have been placed in a critical role of educating members about the interconnection process, potential safety concerns, and the importance of selecting reputable vendors and installers. As utilities, there is a responsibility to educate customers on these issues.
As the demand for solar grows, so does the number of manufacturers, vendors, and installers. While many companies operate ethically, some have misled customers with false promises, incomplete installations, and deceptive business practices. In July 2024, the Minnesota Attorney General’s office took legal action against several solar companies, including Sun Badger Solar, after numerous complaints about unfinished projects and unexpected financial burdens for customers.
To protect themselves, utilities should advise customers to thoroughly research solar companies before signing contracts. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is an excellent resource for checking company ratings, complaint histories, and customer reviews. Other useful tools include state consumer protection agencies, online review platforms, and utility-recommended installer lists. Utility customers should also be cautioned about high-pressure sales tactics and deals that seem too good to be true.
In addition to advocating for research into vendors, utilities should educate customers on the dangers and safety risks of improper interconnection. The general public may not be aware of the hazards that can occur when solar installations do not comply with utility standards. One of the most dangerous risks is when a solar system continues to generate power while still interconnecting to the grid during an outage. This situation can create hazards for utility lineworkers who may assume a line is de-energized.
Customer education is one of the best tools a utility has. Proactive education and communication can foster a safer integration of DER systems. This approach helps reinforce the trust between the utility and the customer and ensures the process is done safely and correctly.
Special thanks to Kristi Robinson, PE, Director of Operations, for her expertise and contributions to this article.
References:
The STAR Universe: Company Announcements
BRANDON CRUZ: Commitment to Safety
Brandon, STAR’s Safety Coordinator, has completed the Certified Loss Control Program (CLCP) in electric utility safety, a rigorous training offered by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association and the National Utility Training and Safety Education Association. He's one of the few professionals nationwide to earn this certification this year!
RAMONA THORP: Helping Map the World One Point at a Time
After 24 incredible years, Ramona is officially retiring! Ramona was STAR’s very first GIS professional. She helped grow our GIS services into what it is today, all with that youthful smile and an incredible attitude!
Fun Fact: Since 2001, when Ramona started at STAR, you'd need to travel round trip across the U.S. to match the miles of conductor line mapped and edited.
Communicate with Confidence Training
Sharpen your ability to handle tough conversations with the public and effectively communicate with your team.
HANDLING DIFFICULT INTERACTIONS WITH UTILITY MEMBERS
In this line of work, you may face situations where people are frustrated, upset, or even confrontational. Knowing how to de-escalate conflict, stay in control, and communicate clearly can make all the difference.
IMPROVING COMMUNICATION BETWEEN OFFICE STAFF + LINE CREWS
Clear, efficient communication between office staff and line crews is just as important as member interactions. Miscommunication can lead to confusion, delays, and even safety risks.
Through team-based exercises and real-world scenarios, you’ll gain the skills to handle these conversations with confidence—both with members and within your organization.
This training will be held at STAR Energy Services Alexandria Office, and the cost to attend is $50 (fees will be invoiced).
Three sessions will be offered:
Thursday, April 3rd, 9:00-11:30 AM
Tuesday, April 8th, 9:00-11:30 AM
Tuesday, April 8th, 12:30-3:00 PM