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Standby Generator Program

Standby Generator Program

The electric grid is very reliable, however, with nearly 3,000 miles of power lines we sometimes experience outages due to severe weather, curious animals, people digging where they shouldn’t be, and vehicles hitting poles and equipment. 

For most members, being without power for a few hours is merely an inconvenience, but for others, continuity of service is very important.  For this reason, we offer a standby generator program that is ideal for members with a home business, sump pump, medical needs, or simply the desire to always have the comfort and conveniences that electricity provides.

About the Program

We start by making a visit to your location to evaluate your power needs and then help you select a generator that meets those needs and electrical codes.  A quote will be provided and if you elect to continue with the project, you will need to 1) contact your gas company for proper sizing and cost (member is responsible for having the fuel source connected); 2) sign a purchase agreement; and 3) pay at least 40% down.

Prior to scheduling installation, you will need to inform the Cooperative of and mark all underground pipes, conduits, wires, tanks, drainage systems and structures.  You also need to ensure you have a carbon monoxide (CO) detector in working order.

Next, we will install the system outside using your home’s existing wiring system when possible.  Installation includes a concrete pad to ensure stability for the generator as well as a cold weather kit complete with battery warmer and oil heaters. You need to arrange the connection to your fuel source, which can be liquid propane (LP) or natural gas.  If using LP, you need to work with your provider to ensure your tank and agreement provide enough LP to run the generator if it runs for an extended period of time.

Once installed, an electrical inspection will be performed by a State of Minnesota Electrical Inspector. The system will automatically run a self-cycle test and will generate power when it senses the loss of grid power.

To ensure the health of the system, we will perform fee-based maintenance on an annual basis.

About the Generators

We work with Generac generators for this program.  The generators we have selected are part of the Response Series from Generac.  The brand is engineered and built in the United States and offers extended warranties up to 10 years.

These generators are protected by a durable, corrosion-resistant enclosure and can run on natural gas or liquid propane.  They have an automatic transfer switch that starts the generator when it senses the loss of grid power.  When power is restored, it will automatically shut off.

These 'smart' generators have a power management system that enables you to prioritize which appliances or systems you want the generator to power during an outage so as not to overload the system.

Cost and Installation

While the cost varies on the size of the generator selected, a 20 kW or 22 kW system is typically the most common, with prices starting at approximately $8,000, including tax and installation.  Price will vary depending on specific requirements at your location.

For more specific information about the Generac generator, click here.

Understand the difference between a portable generator and standby generator.

Learn how home backup generators work and help you and your family.

Learn more about how a Generac home backup generator works.

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If you're interested in learning more or want to schedule a site analysis, contact the Cooperative at (800) 214-2694.

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Contact Us

People's Energy Cooperative

1775 Lake Shady Avenue South
Oronoco, MN  55960

Phone | (800) 214-2694 or (507) 367-7000
Fax | (507) 367-7001

Office Hours
Monday-Friday | 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

 

©2021 People's Energy Cooperative. All Rights Reserved.

  • Home
  • Community
    • Economic Development
    • Education Programs
    • Kids Corner
    • Operation Round Up®
    • Political Action
  • Cooperative Information
    • About People's Energy Cooperative
    • Board of Directors
    • Bylaws & Articles of Incorporation
    • Careers
    • News and Information
    • Our Mission, Vision & Values
    • Privacy Statement / Notice
    • Service Territory and Board Districts
    • Seven Cooperative Principles
    • Statement of Non-Discrimination
  • Electric Service
    • 811 Call Before You Dig
    • Construction Information
    • Landscape & Tree Planting Guidelines
    • Power Line Safety
    • Power Outage Information
    • Power Outages Map
    • Vegetation Management
  • Member Center
    • Account
      • Account Management
      • Become a Member
      • Capital Credits
      • Payment Options
      • Rebates
      • Rates
    • Programs & Services
      • Co-op Connections Discounts
      • Energy Audits
      • Energy Management Programs
      • Evergreen Renewable Energy Program
      • Heartland Security
      • Home Energy Savings
      • HomeServe Service Plan
      • Outdoor LED Lighting
      • People's Community Solar
      • Power Down - Voluntary Load Reduction
      • Standby Generator Program
      • Viasat Internet
      • Water Heating Programs
  • Renewable Energy & Electric Vehicles
    • Clean Energy Initiative Partnership
    • Electric Vehicles Resource Page
    • Renewable Energy