Pennsylvania PUC Level 1 and Level 2 Solar Interconnection Guide: 52 Pa. Code § 75.34 Explained

Key Takeaways

• Pennsylvania's Electric Distribution Companies (EDCs) must use four review procedures for interconnection requests.
• Level 1 interconnection applies to inverter-based solar systems with an electric nameplate capacity of 10 kW or less.
• Level 2 interconnection covers inverter-based facilities with an electric nameplate capacity of 2 MW or less.
• All customer interconnection equipment for Level 1 facilities must be certified.

What are Pennsylvania's Level 1 and Level 2 Solar Interconnection Rules?

Pennsylvania's Public Utility Commission (PUC) mandates specific procedures for connecting small generation facilities, including solar, to the grid. These rules are detailed in 52 Pa. Code § 75.34, titled "Review procedures." Electric Distribution Companies (EDCs) are required to review interconnection requests using one or more of four defined procedures. This guide focuses on Level 1 and Level 2, which cover most residential and smaller commercial solar installations.

Level 1 procedures are for inverter-based systems up to 10 kW. Level 2 procedures apply to inverter-based systems up to 2 MW. Both levels require the use of certified equipment. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for project planning and successful grid connection in Pennsylvania.

How We Verified Pennsylvania's Interconnection Rules

We verified the details presented in this guide by directly consulting the official Pennsylvania Code and Bulletin. Our review focused on 52 Pa. Code § 75.34, which outlines the specific review procedures for small generator facility interconnections. All statutory limitations and requirements cited here are drawn verbatim from this official source. We accessed this document on August 23, 2026.

Understanding Level 1 Interconnection Procedures (Up to 10 kW)

Level 1 interconnection procedures are designed for smaller, typically residential, solar installations. An Electric Distribution Company (EDC) must use Level 1 procedures for evaluating all interconnection requests to connect inverter-based small generation facilities that meet specific criteria.

The primary requirements for Level 1 interconnection are:

• The small generator facility must have an electric nameplate capacity of 10 kW or less.
• The customer interconnection equipment proposed for the small generator facility must be certified.
• The facility must be inverter-based.

This streamlined process aims to simplify grid connection for smaller, compliant systems.

Understanding Level 2 Interconnection Procedures (Up to 2 MW)

Level 2 interconnection procedures apply to larger solar installations, ranging from larger residential systems to commercial projects. EDCs use Level 2 procedures for evaluating interconnection requests to connect small generation facilities when certain conditions are met.

Key criteria for Level 2 interconnection include:

• The small generator facility uses an inverter for interconnection.
• The electric nameplate capacity rating is 2 MW or less.
• The proposed interconnection is to a radial distribution circuit, or a spot network limited to serving one customer.

Additionally, a small generator facility that was reviewed under Level 1 procedures but was not approved may transition to Level 2 review procedures if it meets these criteria.

Comparing Level 1 and Level 2 Interconnection Requirements

The table below summarizes the key differences and commonalities between Level 1 and Level 2 interconnection procedures under 52 Pa. Code § 75.34.

| Feature | Level 1 Interconnection | Level 2 Interconnection | | :-------------------------------- | 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| Transition from Level 1 | Not applicable | A facility not approved under Level 1 may be reviewed under Level 2. | Figures as of August 2026.

Other Interconnection Procedures: Level 3 and Level 4

While Level 1 and Level 2 cover many solar installations, 52 Pa. Code § 75.34 also outlines other review procedures. Level 3 procedures are used for evaluating interconnection requests to connect small generation facilities that may not fit Level 1 or Level 2 criteria, or for non-exporting systems. Level 4 procedures are for larger or more complex projects. Understanding the scope of each level ensures you apply for the correct review process.

Navigating Pennsylvania's Solar Regulations

Successfully interconnecting a solar system in Pennsylvania requires careful adherence to the PUC's regulations. Misinterpreting the code can lead to delays or rejection of your interconnection request. Always ensure your proposed system's specifications, including capacity and equipment certification, align with the requirements of the applicable review level.

For further guidance on related solar policies in Pennsylvania, you can consult our guide on Pennsylvania PUC 52 Pa. Code § 75.13 Solar Net Metering Guide. Understanding both interconnection and net metering rules is essential for maximizing the benefits of your solar investment. If you are considering system sizing, our solar sizing tool can help estimate your needs. You may also find it useful to review interconnection procedures in neighboring states, such as Virginia SCC Net Metering, Interconnection, and Disconnect Switch Rules or Ohio PUCO Level 1 25kW Solar Interconnection Procedure Guide.