Hydroelectric co-op cleared to operate microgrids in central region

With a determination by the Puerto Rico Energy Bureau that the Cooperativa Hidroeléctrica de la Montaña had met the conditions set in a December order, the cooperative is now authorized to operate its microgrids effective upon its notification of the new Resolution and Order. (cooperativahidroelectrica.coop)

By THE STAR STAFF

The Puerto Rico Energy Bureau (PREB) has authorized the island’s first electric power cooperative to start operations.

In an order issued last week, the PREB allowed the Cooperativa Hidroeléctrica de la Montaña (CHM) to begin operating its microgrids after the cooperative corrected several deficiencies identified in its original service contract model.

Formed in 2019, the CHM provides cost-effective, resilient energy from renewable sources to communities in the island’s central mountainous region. It operates in the municipalities of Adjuntas, Jayuya, Lares, Maricao and Utuado, aiming to improve energy reliability for residents

In a Dec. 16, 2025 Resolution and Order, the PREB gave the CHM 30 days to amend its proposed Energy Service Agreement so that it complied with Sections 5.09 and 5.11 of Regulation 9028. The regulator also warned the cooperative that it could not operate its microgrids until the required corrections were made.

The CHM submitted a revised contract model on Dec. 30. After reviewing the document, the PREB last week acknowledged receipt and confirmed that the outstanding elements required under Regulation 9028 had been addressed. They included listing all applicable rates and charges, detailing conditions for service suspension and reconnection, providing customer contact information for inquiries and complaints, and establishing procedures for contract termination by either party.

With the deficiencies addressed, the PREB determined that the CHM had met the conditions set in the Dec. 16 order. The cooperative is now authorized to operate its microgrids effective upon its notification of the new Resolution and Order.

The PREB emphasized that the CHM must continue to comply with all microgrid operational requirements established under Regulation 9028, as well as any other applicable rules governing energy companies and energy cooperatives in Puerto Rico.