FERC works to ensure that electric system operators focus on safety, reliability
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) are working to ensure that bulk electric system operators can focus resources on keeping people safe and the lights on during this public health emergency.
FERC and NERC are using regulatory discretion to advise all registered entities that they will consider the impact of the coronavirus outbreak in complying with Reliability Standards. Specifically, the effects of the coronavirus will be considered an acceptable basis for non-compliance with obtaining and maintaining personnel certification for the period of March 1 to Dec. 31. Registered entities should notify their Regional Entities and Reliability Coordinators when using system operator personnel that are not NERC-certified.
Also, the effects of the coronavirus will be considered an acceptable reason for case-by-case non-compliance with Reliability Standard requirements involving periodic actions that would have been occurred between March 1 and July 31. Registered entities should notify their Regional Entities of any periodic actions that will be missed during this period.
Regional Entities will also postpone on-site audits, certifications, and other on-site activities at least until July 31. They should communicate any resource impacts associated with remote activities to their Regional Entities.
FERC and NERC will continue to evaluate the situation to determine if they should extend these dates.
“Our shared goal is to ensure all registered entities balance the concerns for the health and welfare of their workforce while staying focused on the mission of supplying power to consumers across North America,” NERC and FERC officials stated.
