Meeting Summary - 10/03/24 ROS Meeting

1 - Antitrust Admonition Katie Rich

• Two alternate representatives were introduced for the meeting.
• Chase appointed Kristen Cook as his alternate representative.
• Resme appointed Shane Thomas as her alternate representative.

2 - Agenda Review Katie Rich

3 - Approval of ROS Meeting Minutes Possible Vote Katie Rich

• Agreement to add the minutes to the combo ballot.

4 - Technical Advisory Committee TAC Update Katie Rich

• Discussion on potential changes to the voting and segment structure at the subcommittee level; no formal decisions made.
• Encouragement to attend the next TAC meeting in October for updates on potential process changes.
• TAC has requested input from the subcommittees on items to highlight for the board.
• Approval of NPRR1244 and NOGRR263 by TAC, which were on the previous agenda.
• Approval of the AS methodology by TAC.

5 - ERCOT Reports

• Three reports were discussed.

5.1 - Operations Report Alex Lee

• The unofficial peak demand for August was 85,199 MW on August 20, which was 309 MW less than the peak demand earlier in the same month on August 10.
• A solar generation record of 20,836 MW was set on August 19.
• Three frequency events occurred due to unit trips, with frequencies recovering quickly.
• No ERCOT Contingency Reserve Service (ECRS) events, Responsive Reserve Service (RRS) events, or DC Tie curtailments were reported.
• 34 HRUC commitments were made mainly for system capacity, with some for securing reliability and meeting generator minimum runtime requirements.
• Two OCNs were issued due to hot weather on August 7-8 and August 18-20.
• Three advisories were issued for Geomagnetic Disturbances of level K-7 or higher.
• Congestions were highest on the E_PASP and part of the Start GTCS in August.

5.2 - System Planning Report Ping Yan

• The 765 kV preliminary plan was presented at the September RPG meeting.
• ERCOT plans to continue the 765 kV discussion at the October RPG meeting.
• ERCOT will publish the annual regional transmission plan report with economic analysis by December.
• Reports to include congestion cost savings test and information for market participants.
• ERCOT is developing the LTSA long term system assessment report and the grid reliability and resiliency report.
• Preliminary results will be brought to RPG for discussions before December, but no specific date is set.
• Mention of a TSAT implementation schedule update to be discussed.

5.3 - Online TSAT Implementation Schedule Update Douglas Bernhoft

• Douglas Bernhoft provided an update on the real-time implementation of TSAT.
• Two scenarios, EASTEX and Raymondville Rio Hondo, are currently in monitoring stages in the real-time production system since July 10.
• TSAT results are generally consistent with expectations, aligned with offline study limits, with sensitivity to real-time voltage coordination.
• Plan to implement TSAT limits for EASTEX and Raymondville Rio Hondo starting November 5, with a market notice one week prior.
• Additional TSAT scenarios are being tested for more GTCs within the ERCOT system.
• Current limits are expected to remain similar; scenarios focusing on renewable impacts are prioritized for studying.
• No specific schedule available for testing other GTCs, such as WESTEX, pending the operations stability analysis team’s evaluation.
• TSAT aims to provide more accurate real-time limits, which may vary from offline calculations due to real-time information.
• Discount factors used in offline studies are expected to remain for real-time calculations using TSAT.

6 - New Protocol Revision Subcommittee PRS Referrals Vote Katie Rich 

6.1 - NPRR1247, Incorporation of Congestion Cost Savings Test in Economic Evaluation of Transmission Projects

• Motion to request PRS continue to table NPRR1247 for further review by PLWG added to combo ballot.
  • The incorporation of the congestion cost savings test will be included in the annual RTP study.
  • PRS has tabled the NPRR pending further review and formal assignment.
  • ERCOT has presented a draft white paper providing details on the cost savings test, which was discussed at the PLWG meeting.
  • ERCOT is working on reply comments to address clarifications requested during discussions.
  • The next PLWG meeting is scheduled for October 16, with plans to file comments before that meeting.
  • The packed agenda of previous meetings has impacted scheduling, potentially affecting the October 16 meeting.
  • There's a proposal to table the NPRR and refer it to PLWG for further discussion, aiming for a resolution before going back to PRS in November.
  • ERCOT intends to include test results from the new criteria in the RTP study even before approval of the NPRR.

7 - NPRR1180, Inclusion of Forecasted Load in Planning Analyses Possible Vote Katie Rich

• NPRR1180 was approved last year by ROS and PRS approved it last month.
• ERCOT filed comments on NPRR1180 and PGRR107 at the end of August.
• NPRR1180 will undergo IA review this month.
• The focus is on ensuring consistent use of 'load' across protocols and guides.
• It was decided to move NPRR1180 forward at PRS without further input.

8 - ROS Revision Requests Vote Katie Rich

• Introduction of IA (Impact Analysis) reviews

8.1 - PGRR107, Related to NPRR1180, Inclusion of Forecasted Load in Planning Analyses

• Motion to table PGRR107 added to combo ballot.
  • ERCOT needs to wait until the November meeting to complete the Impact Analysis (IA) for PGRR107.

8.2 - PGRR116, Related to NPRR1240, Access to Transmission Planning Information

• Motion to endorse and forward to TAC the 9/9/24 ROS Report and 7/2/24 Impact Analysis for PGRR116 added to combo ballot.
  • No impact IA.

8.3 - NOGRR266, Related to NPRR1239, Access to Market Information

• Motion to endorse and forward to TAC the 9/9/24 ROS Report and 7/2/24 Impact Analysis for NOGRR266 added to combo ballot,
  • No impact IA.

8.4 - NOGRR267, Related to NPRR1240, Access to Transmission Planning Information

• Motion to endorse and forward to TAC the 9/9/24 ROS Report and 7/2/24 Impact Analysis for NOGRR267 added to combo ballot.
  • No impact IA.

8.5 - PGRR119, Stability Constraint Modeling Assumptions in the Regional Transmission Plan

• Motion to table PGRR119 and refer issue to PLWG added to combo ballot.
  • Reviewed PGRR119 for stability constraint modeling assumptions in the Regional Transmission Plan (RTP).
  • The revision will codify the use of a reliability margin when modeling limits associated with this stability constraint in the RTP reliability and economic base cases.
  • Suggestion to have Dylan's group take up this issue.
  • Proposal to table and refer it to the Planning Working Group (PLWG).

9 - Revision Requests Tabled at PRS and Referred to ROS Possible Vote

• Two revision requests are currently tabled.

9.1 - NPRR1229, Real-Time Constraint Management Plan Energy Payment

• NPRR1229 is currently at WMWG.
• Responses were provided by STEC to policy level questions posed by ERCOT.
• No current role for ROS as WMWG is still working through the issues.

9.2 - NPRR1234, Interconnection Requirements for Large Loads and Modeling Standards for Loads 25 MW or Greater NDSWG

• NDSWG did not meet in September; additional comments from steel mills are expected to be discussed at the next meeting.
• Item NPRR1234 remains tabled for future discussion.
• PGRR107 is to be tabled pending further information expected in November.

10 - Revision Requests Tabled at ROS (Possible Vote)

10.1 - PGRR073, Related to NPRR956, Designation of Providers of Transmission Actions

• Not discussed

10.2 - NOGRR268, Related to NPRR1246, Energy Storage Resource Terminology Alignment for the Single-Model Era

• Motion to recommend approval of NOGRR268 as amended by the 9/24/24 ERCOT comments added to combo ballot.
  • Items NOGRR268 and PGRR118 were previously tabled but were proposed to be moved forward as RTC discussions went smoothly.
  • ERCOT submitted comments on NOGRR268 and PGRR118, proposing modifications to clarify language regarding generation and energy storage.
  • The proposed language changes suggest references to 'generation' would inherently include energy storage, thus additional mentions of energy storage are unnecessary.
  • The group agrees to move forward with ERCOT's proposed modifications to these items.

10.3 - PGRR118, Related to NPRR1246, Energy Storage Resource Terminology Alignment for the Single-Model Era

• Motion to recommend approval of PGRR118 as amended by the 9/20/24 ERCOT comments added to combo ballot.

11 - Operations Working Group OWG Rickey Floyd

owg_ros_20241003.pdf

11.1 - NPRR1070, Planning Criteria for GTC Exit Solutions OWG, PLWG Possible Vote

• ERCOT is collaborating with PUC staff to finalize the language.
• The discussion on this item remains tabled at the Operating Working Group (OWG).

11.2 - NPRR1238, Voluntary Registration of Loads with Curtailable Load Capabilities OWG Possible Vote

• Oncor filed comments on April 18, 2024, regarding voluntary registration of loads with curtailable load capabilities.
• OWG reached consensus on Oncor's comments at their last meeting.
• ERCOT presented use cases during the meeting demonstrating the impact of considering VECLs on total load for load shedding.
• ERCOT's example showed specific entities' load at 0.39% of ERCOT's total load, which could rise to 2.75% if VECls were included.

11.3 - NOGRR265, Related to NPRR1238, Voluntary Registration of Loads with Curtailable Load Capabilities OWG Possible Vote

• Oncor filed comments on NOGRR265 and OWG reached a consensus on these comments.
• Fred provided a status update on NPRR1238 comments, stating they are close to finalizing and expect to file them before the upcoming October OWG meeting.
• Consensus generally aligns with Oncor’s comments, with clarifications needed on low shader calculations and ramping codification.
• Blake from LCRA expressed concerns about the lack of a remote control disconnection device requirement for VECL at the DSP level, suggesting language to address this.
• Golden Spread's Chris mentioned no anticipated distribution disconnects for VECLs and emphasized the need for coordination with ERCOT.
• Ken Bowen from CPS Energy raised the issue of load ratio share calculation related to transmission projects and entity recovery rates.
• Lloyd commented on the safety aspects of remote control of breakers for large loads, advocating for notice and adherence to good utility practices.
• Ricky discussed the process of OWG referring additional comments on NOGRR and NPRR back to OWG, and agreed to reconsider them next month.
• Bob Whitmer emphasized the urgency of implementing early curtailment loads to protect firm loads and prevent unnecessary risk to vulnerable populations.

12 - Planning Working Group PLWG Dylan Preas

• Dylan Preas was asked to provide an update under the Planning Working Group (PLWG) agenda item.

12.1 - PGRR115, Related to NPRR1234, Interconnection Requirements for Large Loads and Modeling Standards for Loads 25 MW or Greater PLWG Possible Vote

• PLWG met on September 24 to discuss PGRR115.
• Reviewed comments from Centerpoint Energy, Oncor, and Steel Mills on PGRR115.
• Discussed large load rules and processes, including incorporation into QSA.
• Covered dynamic study requirements and deadlines for LLIS process.
• Explored inclusion of entities into LLIS process, such as DSP's and resource entities for co-located large loads.
• Anticipation of ERCOT reply comments to the presented comments.
• The item was tabled for further discussion by the PLWG.

12.2 - PGRR117, Addition of Resiliency Assessment and Criteria to Reflect PUCT Rule Changes PLWG Possible Vote

• LCRA provided reply comments on PGRR117 regarding impact, duration, and frequency of outages.
• ERCOT proposed a future NPRR to assess whether upgrades meet resiliency criteria and their benefits.
• PGRR117 discussion was tabled for the next meeting.
• Discussion on ERCOT's draft white paper on NPRR1247 regarding congestion cost savings test.
• NERC-related topics included standards NERC CIP-014 on physical security and NERC TPL-008 on extreme weather standards.
• Open action item on PGRR107 regarding review of load in the planning guide discussed.
• ERCOT acknowledged the significant effort required to update more than 4000 instances of 'load' in protocols and planning guides.
• PLWG will keep the action item open to align terminology over time.
• Suggestions were discussed to incorporate terminology checks during future revision requests.
• PGRR119 added to the agenda for future consideration.

13 - Dynamics Working Group DWG Paul Koberlein

• Paul Koberlein presented a short update on procedure manual updates, aiming to align it with NOGRR245's language.
• The draft procedure manual was posted on the DWG landing page two months ago for review.
• No comments were received on the draft, and approval is being requested to remove the draft status.
• Upon ROS approval, the draft language, watermarks, and titles will be removed from the procedure manual.
• The procedural manual will be reposted to the DWG landing page and becomes effective upon approval.
• Clarification was made that there is no gray box language for NOGRR245, and the changes are effective as of October 1.

14 - Combo Ballot Vote Katie Rich

15 - Inverter Based Resources Working Group IBRWG Julia Matevosyan

• Discussed procedure manual update with changes from DWG manual and updated tools for testing.
• Mark Henry presented a standards update with three standards developed; PRC-030 and PRC-028 received sufficient votes, PRC-029 faced industry disagreements.
• Fred Huang presented a draft proposal for advanced grid support from energy storage resources with a focus on grid forming functions; ERCOT seeking feedback.
• Addressed primary frequency response performance issues in inverter based resources, specifically wind and solar under deep curtailment.
• ERCOT continues to seek feedback from OEMs to understand technology limitations and propose solutions.
• Update on NOGRR245, which has been approved at PUC with a follow up NOGRR to be developed.
• Discussed ROCOF and phase jump measurement items; understanding OEM methods for frequency measurement and response.
• ERCOT aims to align evaluation methods with OEM limitations for frequency response and ROCOF assessment.
• Fred provided update on tentative schedule for advanced grid support ESR adoption request, aiming for end-of-year submission.
• Next Meeting Date: October 11

16 - Performance, Disturbance, Compliance Working Group PDCWG Kevin Bunch

pdcwg_report_to_ros_100324.pdf

• PDCWG met on September 18 with a short meeting.
• Reviewed general archive frequency control metrics and regulation reports.
• Received a brief update regarding the BAL-001 SAR related to ESRs.
• Reviewed two non-frequency events and one frequency event in a closed meeting; events appeared standard with no extremes.
• Observation that frequency events have decreased over the last decade, from eight or nine per month to about one a month.
• IMFR was increased to 1552, exceeding expectations.
• Upcoming meeting in October is likely to be canceled due to light agenda unless something new arises.
• Encouragement for members to attend the IBR meeting next week regarding frequency change.

17 - Steady State Working Group SSWG William Robertson

sswg_report_to_ros_10032024.pdf

• Two tuning sessions for the 24 SSWG case build were held last week.
• A business meeting occurred last Wednesday, with the case build nearly complete.
• There are no expected delays in posting final cases.
• The target date for the final cases posting is October 11.
• ERCOT will also post the TPIT and CR report on the same date.
• Next steps include updating the planning data dictionary and contingency definitions.
• Final posting for the planning data dictionary and contingency definitions is scheduled for October 25.

18 - Operations Training Working Group OTWG Manuel Sanchez

otwg_updates_10032024.pdf

• Aircraft operator certification exam has been temporarily suspended due to issues with testing centers. Notification sent to market participants on September 9.
• Efforts are ongoing to resolve certification exam issues; notifications will be sent upon resolution.
• Annual ERCOT Blackstart training seminar scheduled from October 15 - November 21, including computer-based training and in-person simulation exercises.
• Participants can earn continuing education hours (CEHs), must complete the entire day's session for credit.
• Computer-based training is released weekly, attendees can contact ERCOT service desk for assistance.
• ERCOT TSP IRL training is under initial discussion to develop objectives and content, focused on TOS with sensitive topics.
• No additional questions or comments were raised during the session.

19 - Black Start Working Group BSWG Michael Dieringer

• The Blackstart Working Group met on September 19 in a closed session.
• Topics included how to utilize DEERS during black start events.
• A roundtable Q&A session was held between the working group, DEERS, and ERCOT.
• Additional information will be provided in the future.
• Preliminary stages of a NOGRR for satellite phone requirements were discussed.
• Participants received a copy of the NOGRR to review and provide feedback by the next meeting.
• A vote confirmed Michael Dieringer as chairman and Alex Lee as vice-chair.
• Blackstart plans are due on November 1.
• The next meeting will occur on December 11, requiring an NDA for participation.

20 - Other Business Katie Rich

20.1 - 2025 ERCOT Membership/Segment Representative Elections Suzie Clifton

• Reminder of upcoming 2025 membership process
• Notifications have been sent out
• Date of record is Friday, November 1st and elections will commence on following Tuesday, November 5th

20.2 - Review Open Action Items List

• Discussion about the upcoming ERCOT membership segment representative elections starting on November 5, 2025.
• Discussion on the transmission, reclosing, and sectionalizing schemes for IBR ride through, with intent to follow up with absent members.
• NDSWG leadership progress on nodal ICCP communication handbook initiated in April.
• Update on ERCOT protocols and planning guides regarding the correct use of terms; mention of necessary modifications and timing for agenda review.
• Clarification about different definitions of generation in context with storage and RTC.
• EPA regulations and their relevance to ongoing court discussions were retained as action items.
• Discussion on calculating load shedding in real-time and potential relevance of NPRR 1238.
• A TAC assignment on the September 6 event involving analysis by several working groups.
• Consideration of updates on single model revision requests and their implications.
• Intention to narrow down the open action items list by the end of the year.
• The ballot motion was carried 100% in favor.
• Acknowledgement of next meeting on November 7, to be conducted in person.

20.3

• Not discussed

20.3.1 Network Data Support Working Group (NDSWG)

• No NDSWG leadership was on the call, unsure if any progress has been made since April of this year

20.3.2 - 20.3.3

• Not discussed

21 - Adjourn Katie Rich