Ride Along with CoServ’s Energy Solutions Team

More CoServ Members are buying solar panels, backup batteries and generators for their homes. Collectively known as distributed generation (DG), these technologies provide several benefits for Members, especially when paired together.

Because these systems produce or store electricity, it’s important that they are installed correctly. CoServ has a team of experts, called the Energy Solutions Team, who inspect systems, swap out meters and act as advisers to Members considering any type of DG system.

The Communications Team rode along with Jason Cochran, Senior Energy Solutions Specialist, and Craig Lay, Energy Solutions Specialist, to see how their daily rounds provide excellent service to Members.

The first stop was Michael and Chala Ford’s Prosper home where they installed a new Generac whole home generator. Michael said he made the investment because he wants peace of mind in the rare event that there’s a power outage.

“We felt it made sense to have a backup generator,”  Michael said. “With two electric vehicles, we could power them as well.”

Jason begins the inspection by removing the CoServ meter, which simulates an outage. Within seconds, the whole home generator, powered by CoServ Gas, fires up and starts generating electricity.

He then uses a voltage meter to ensure the transfer switch is properly routing power to the home’s circuits, not back onto the grid. Backfeeding the grid during an outage is incredibly dangerous, especially for linemen crews working nearby.

After passing that test, the CoServ meter is reattached, restoring grid power and triggering the generator to shut off. It’s critical that the generator automatically turns off once power is restored.

Next, it’s off to McKinney where CoServ Member Gabriel Cordova installed solar panels and a Tesla Powerwall. Jason inspected the system, including the connections between the inverter, the batteries and the meter.

Energy from the solar panels powers the home’s  circuits and any excess electricity is routed either to the Tesla Powerwall, where it’s stored for later use, or to the meter, where CoServ buys it. Using an app, Gabriel can decide how much power goes to the battery and how much he sells to the grid.

“The app runs everything,” he said. “It’s so smart and can calculate everything.” Gabriel said the Powerwall guarantees he will have power for his entire home for up to eight hours.

As these distributed generation systems become more affordable, CoServ expects to see more Members installing them, which will keep the Energy Solutions team busy.

“CoServ prides itself on delivering reliable, affordable electricity to every Member and we also support Members’ decision to install various distributed generation resources if they choose,” said Josh Sterling, Manager of Energy Solutions. “As grids become smarter and more distributed, CoServ will continue to be your trusted energy adviser that you can count on for your energy needs.”