ERCOT Planning Guide Section 5: Generation Resource Interconnection or Change Request

February 1, 2013

PUBLIC

TABLE OF CONTENTS: SECTION 5

5 GENERATION RESOURCE INTERCONNECTION OR CHANGE REQUEST............................................1 5.1 INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................................................................1 5.1.1 Applicability................................................................................................................................................1 5.2 GENERATION INTERCONNECTION PROCESS.........................................................................................................2 5.2.1 Generation Interconnection or Change Request Application ....................................................................2 5.2.2 Generation Interconnection or Change Request Submission Requirements..............................................3 5.3 FULL INTERCONNECTION STUDY REQUEST.........................................................................................................4 5.3.1 Full Interconnection Study Submission Requirements................................................................................5 5.3.2 Modifications to Request.............................................................................................................................6 5.4 STUDY PROCESSES AND PROCEDURES.................................................................................................................7 5.4.1 Security Screening Study.............................................................................................................................7 5.4.2 Full Interconnection Study..........................................................................................................................8 5.4.3 Steady-State Analysis................................................................................................................................11 5.4.4 System Protection (Short-Circuit) Analysis..............................................................................................11 5.4.5 Dynamic and Transient Stability (Unit Stability, Voltage, Subsynchronous Resonance) Analysis..........12 5.4.6 Facility Study............................................................................................................................................12 5.4.7 Economic Study.........................................................................................................................................13 5.4.8 FIS Study Report and Follow-up...............................................................................................................13 5.4.9 Proof of Site Control.................................................................................................................................14 5.4.10 Confidentiality.........................................................................................................................................15 5.5 INTERCONNECTION AGREEMENT.......................................................................................................................16 5.5.1 Standard Generation Interconnection Agreement....................................................................................16 5.5.2 Other Arrangements for Transmission Service.........................................................................................16 5.5.3 Provisions for Municipally Owned Utilities and Cooperatives ..............................................................16 5.5.4 Notification to ERCOT Concerning Certain Project Developments........................................................16 5.6 COMPLIANCE WITH OPERATIONAL STANDARDS................................................................................................17 5.7 INTERCONNECTION DATA, FEES, AND TIMETABLES..........................................................................................17 5.7.1 Generation Resource Data Requirements.................................................................................................17 5.7.2 Interconnection Study Fees.......................................................................................................................19 5.7.3 Stability Modeling Fee..............................................................................................................................20 5.7.4 Full Interconnection Study Fee/Cost .......................................................................................................20 5.7.5 Interconnection Process Timetables.........................................................................................................20 5.8 GENERAL AND TECHNICAL STANDARDS..............................................................................................22 5.8.1 Other Standards........................................................................................................................................22 5.8.2 Transformer Tap Position ........................................................................................................................22

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SECTION 5: GENERATION RESOURCE INTERCONNECTION OR CHANGE REQUEST

5 5.1 (1)

GENERATION RESOURCE INTERCONNECTION OR CHANGE REQUEST Introduction This Section 5, Generation Resource Interconnection or Change Request, defines the requirements and processes used to facilitate new or modified generation interconnections with the ERCOT System. The requirements outlined in this Section 5 are designed to: (a) (b) Determine the facilities required to directly interconnect new or modified generation to the ERCOT System; Ensure that the interconnection of the new or modified generation is accomplished in a manner that maintains the reliability of the ERCOT System and is in compliance with the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) Reliability Standards, Protocols, this Planning Guide and the Operating Guides; Increase the quality of communications between Interconnecting Entities (IEs), Transmission Service Providers (TSPs), and ERCOT; Provide for the best available information on future capacity additions for use in identifying, forecasting, and analyzing both short and long-range ERCOT capabilities, demands, and reserves; and Provide accurate initial data about the proposed Generation Resource to ERCOT to ensure that ERCOT and stakeholders have the information necessary for planning purposes.

(c) (d)

(e)

(2)

The requirements and processes in this Section 5 conform to all applicable Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) rules, NERC Reliability Standards, Protocols, and provisions in this Planning Guide and the Operating Guides. In the event of a conflict between this Section 5 and any PUCT rules, NERC Reliability Standards, and the Protocols, then such PUCT rules, NERC Reliability Standards, or Protocols shall control. Applicability The requirements in this Section 5, Generation Resource Interconnection or Change Request, are applicable, to the following: (a) Any Entity proposing a new All-Inclusive Generation Resource, including a storage device, with an aggregate power output (gross Generation Resource output minus auxiliary Load directly related to the Generation Resource) of ten MW or greater, planning to interconnect to transmission in the ERCOT System; or

5.1.1 (1)

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(b)

Resource Entities that are seeking to: (i) (ii) (iii) Upgrade the summer or winter Net Dependable Capability of an AllInclusive Generation Resource by ten MW or greater within a single year; Re-power an All-Inclusive Generation Resource of ten MW or greater; or Change or add a Point of Interconnection (POI) of an All-Inclusive Generation Resource of ten MW or greater.

(2)

Interconnection requirements for on-site Distributed Generation (DG) are not subject to this Section 5 but are addressed in P.U.C. SUBST. R. 25.211, Interconnection of On-Site Distributed Generation (DG), and P.U.C. SUBST. R. 25.212, Technical Requirements for Interconnection and Parallel Operation of On-Site Distributed Generation. Generation Interconnection Process

5.2

The ERCOT generation interconnection process is designed in accordance with P.U.C. SUBST. R. 25.198, Initiating Transmission Service, which delegates to ERCOT the responsibility for implementing the transmission interconnection process. 5.2.1 (1) Generation Interconnection or Change Request Application Any Entity seeking to interconnect a new All-Inclusive Generation Resource of ten MW or greater to the ERCOT System, upgrade the summer or winter Net Dependable Capability of an All-Inclusive Generation Resource by ten MW or greater within a single year, re-power an All-Inclusive Generation Resource of ten MW or greater, or change or add a Point of Interconnection (POI) of an All-Inclusive Generation Resource of ten MW or greater, as described in Section 5.1.1, Applicability, must submit the Resource registrations forms which are available on the ERCOT website and applicable fees described in Section 5.7.2, Interconnection Study Fees. All Generation Interconnection or Change Request (GINR) applications and supporting data submissions shall be delivered to ERCOT by standard mail, facsimile (fax), or email. Applications and supporting data shall be sent as discrete file attachments. The application with signature may be submitted in PDF form if desired but the supporting data shall be sent as a Microsoft Excel file attachment so that data may be easily extracted to reduce transcription errors. All GINR applications sent via email shall have the words Generation Interconnection or Change Request in the first line of the address field or in the subject field of an email request. The Interconnecting Entity (IE) shall include in the GINR application all information necessary to allow for timely development, design, and implementation of any electric system improvements or enhancements required by ERCOT and the Transmission
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(2)

(3)

(4)

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Service Provider (TSP) to reliably meet the interconnection requirements of the proposed Generation Resource. This information shall be of sufficient detail for use in determining transfer capabilities, operating limits (including stability), and planning margins to provide both reliability and operating efficiency as well as facilitating coordinated planning for future transmission system additions. (5) ERCOT will notify the IE within seven Business Days through telephone call or email if the GINR application fails to include the applicable fees or the information that is necessary to perform the initial screening interconnection studies. If the IE fails to respond to ERCOTs inquiries within ten Business Days, the GINR will be deemed incomplete and rejected. ERCOT shall notify the IE if such condition occurs. Once the application has been deemed materially complete, ERCOT will date-stamp the application, add the interconnection request to the ERCOT interconnection list, and notify the IE of receipt of the completed application within ten Business Days. The IE should note that the date stamp is not a reservation of transmission capacity, either planned or unplanned. An ERCOT designated point of contact will be assigned to oversee the interconnection study process and answer questions concerning the interconnection screening study and process. Once assigned, the ERCOT designated point of contact will contact the IE and will be the primary ERCOT contact for interconnection studies. If during the course of the studies, additional information is needed by ERCOT from the IE, ERCOT will immediately notify the IE and the IE will have ten Business Days to answer the request for additional information without impacting the study timeline. Prior to the initial contact from the ERCOT designated point of contact, IEs should direct questions concerning the generation interconnection or change process to [email protected]. The IE should contact its assigned Wholesale Client Services Representative with any queries that are not related to the interconnection studies. If proposed Generation Resources that would use the same physical transmission interconnection are to be built in stages with in-service dates more than one year apart, each stage should be treated as a separate interconnection request but may be included in the same study. Generation Interconnection or Change Request Submission Requirements In order to consider the GINR, a Security Screening Study Fee shall be submitted to ERCOT along with the GINR application as prescribed in Section 5.2.1, Generation Interconnection or Change Request Application. The Security Screening Study Fee is non-refundable. The IE may wire funds to ERCOT to comply with the fee requirements. For instructions on how to wire the funds to ERCOT, send an email to [email protected] requesting the account and wiring information.

(6) (7)

(8)

(9)

(10)

5.2.2 (1)

(2)

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(3)

If submitting the payment via standard mail, please make the check payable to the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, Inc. Please contact [email protected] to alert ERCOT to this method of submission for the application. All standard mail submissions for the application, data, or fees shall be sent to the following address: ERCOT, Inc. ATTN: Generation Interconnection Request System Planning 2705 West Lake Drive Taylor, TX 76574-2136

(4)

(5) (6)

Submission of the application and data via email shall be addressed to [email protected]. All data for studies shall be submitted electronically. ERCOT will assign a unique name to all GINRs according to the following convention: yrINRxxxxp where: yr is the calendar year the generation is anticipated to be online INR indicates interconnection request xxxx is a sequence number beginning with 0001 (reset for each year) p is an optional, sequential alphabetical identifier beginning with a to be used for phased projects

(7)

All correspondence relating to a specific GINR, security screening or Full Interconnection Study (FIS) shall reference the unique project identification number once it has been assigned by ERCOT. Full Interconnection Study Request Any Interconnecting Entity (IE) seeking a Full Interconnection Study (FIS) for interconnection to the ERCOT System must submit the following to ERCOT: (a) (b) A Notice to proceed with the FIS; The Resource registration form (Excel spreadsheet) with applicable information required for interconnection studies as described in Section 6.8, Resource Registration Procedures; A Stability Modeling Fee as prescribed in Section 5.7.3, Stability Modeling Fee; and Proof of site control as described in Section 5.4.9, Proof of Site Control.

5.3 (1)

(c) (d)

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(2) (3) (4) (5)

Transmission Service Providers (TSPs) may charge additional fees for their interconnection studies. All FIS requests and supporting data submissions shall be delivered to ERCOT by email. The supporting data shall be sent as discrete file attachments. The IE shall include the associated project identification number (INR number) in the subject field of the email. The IE shall include in the FIS request all information necessary to allow for timely development, design, and implementation of any electric system improvements or enhancements required by ERCOT and the TSP to reliably meet the interconnection requirements of the proposed generation. This information shall be of sufficient detail for use in determining transfer capabilities, operating limits (including stability), and planning margins to provide both reliability and operating efficiency as well as facilitating coordinated planning for future transmission system additions. Upon receipt of the FIS request, the ERCOT designated point of contact will continue to be the primary ERCOT contact for the IE, ensuring Resource registration data is communicated to the TSP. The ERCOT designated point of contact will initiate a meeting between the TSP(s) and the IE. If during the course of the studies, additional information is needed from the IE, ERCOT will immediately notify the IE and the IE will have ten Business Days to answer the request for additional information without impacting the study timeline. Full Interconnection Study Submission Requirements When an FIS is requested, a Stability Modeling Fee must be submitted to ERCOT as prescribed by Section 5.7.3, Stability Modeling Fee. The Stability Modeling Fee is nonrefundable. The IE may wire funds to ERCOT to comply with the fee requirements. For instructions on how to wire the funds to ERCOT, send an email to [email protected] requesting the account and wiring information. If submitting the payment via standard mail, please make the check payable to the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, Inc. Please contact [email protected] to alert ERCOT to this method of submission for the application. Submission of the data via email shall be addressed to [email protected]. All design data shall be submitted electronically. The IE shall use the Resource registration form to submit planning study data and to reduce duplication/redundancy of forms. Key portions of the Resource registration form include, but are not limited to, the following tabs: (a) Site information;

(6)

5.3.1 (1)

(2) (3)

(4) (5)

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(b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (6)

Unit information; Reactive capability; Planning; Protection; and Subsynchronous resonance.

The Resource registration form and all updates shall be submitted by the IE and sent to the assigned ERCOT designated point of contact and to [email protected]. ERCOT will forward this information along with a change report to the TSP(s) for use in the FIS. While the TSP may request information necessary to perform the FIS from the IE directly, the IE must provide this information to the TSP in order to facilitate the completion of the FIS in a timely manner. The IE must also contemporaneously submit to ERCOT an update to the Resource registration form containing the information. The planning submissions of the Resource registration form are considered planning data and should accurately reflect the design of the facility. Please note this process does not meet the Resource registration submissions requirements contained in the Protocols, but the use of this format is intended to facilitate the preparation of the data required for that process and the continuity of data between the interconnection study process and the data submitted for Resource registration. Modifications to Request The IE shall maintain communication with ERCOT and the TSP at all stages of the generation interconnection process. The IE must immediately notify both ERCOT (via email at [email protected]) and the TSP of any changes that would affect the technical attributes and/or timeline of the project, including, but not limited to the following elements: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) Capacity; In-service date; Location; Generator type; Interconnection agreement execution; Status of the acquisition of any necessary rights to water supplies; and Status of the acquisition of any necessary air permits.

(7)

5.3.2 (1)

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(2)

The IE shall update the Resource registration form as soon as possible following any change to the proposed facility and shall submit the updated information to ERCOT and the TSP. On March 1 and September 1 of each year, any IE that has submitted an FIS request shall submit to ERCOT, for each proposed facility, an electronic copy of a notarized attestation that, to the best of the attesting partys knowledge, the Resource registration form data are correct. The attestation shall be sent by email to [email protected]. This obligation to update continues even after any interconnection agreement is signed. IEs must immediately notify ERCOT and the relevant TSP(s) of any change in ownership and shall provide conclusive documentary evidence of the ownership change (such as a purchase/sale agreement). If, after receipt of the updated Resource registration form, ERCOT or the TSP determines that any subsequent changes to the project may affect the reliable operation of the ERCOT System or otherwise warrant new studies, then ERCOT may require additional studies to be performed before the proposed Generation Resource is allowed to interconnect to the ERCOT System. The IE and TSP(s) shall develop a schedule for completing the additional studies. The TSP shall provide the FIS studies to ERCOT and the other TSPs through the confidential email list. If these additional studies show that the project would not meet the operational standards specified in the Protocols, this Planning Guide, the Operating Guides, or Other Binding Documents, ERCOT may require the IE to demonstrate its compliance with these standards as a condition for energization of the proposed Generation Resource. If the IE increases the requested amount of capacity of the proposed Generation Resource by more than 20% of the amount requested in the screening study, ERCOT shall require the IE to submit a new Generation Interconnection or Change Request (GINR) for the additional capacity or for the entire project. ERCOT may, at its discretion, require the IE to submit a new GINR for significant capacity decreases or capacity increases of less than 20%, particularly if other changes to the request are also made, such as changes to the inservice date. ERCOTs determination as to whether new studies are needed in no way affects the ongoing obligations of the IE and TSP to comply with North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) Reliability Standards, Protocols, this Planning Guide and the Operating Guides. Study Processes and Procedures Security Screening Study For each Generation Interconnection or Change Request (GINR), ERCOT will conduct a steady-state Security Screening Study, including power-flow and transfer studies, based on the expected in-service year to identify potential generation dispatch limitations based on the site proposed by the Interconnecting Entity (IE). The Security Screening Study is a high level review of the project and generally includes a number of initial assumptions from both ERCOT and the IE. In accordance with P.U.C. SUBST. R. 25.198, Initiating Transmission Service, ERCOT will establish the scope of the Security Screening Study.
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(3)

(4)

5.4 5.4.1 (1)

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(2)

The results of this study will provide an indication of the level at which the proposed Generation Resource can expect to operate simultaneously with other known Generation Resources in the area before significant transmission additions or enhancements may be required. During the course of this study, ERCOT may consult with the affected Transmission Service Provider(s) (TSP(s)), if needed, to identify the most efficient means of providing transmission service. During the Security Screening Study phase of the GINR process, and in accordance with the Protocols, all data, documents, and other information required by ERCOT from an IE related to a request for GINR are considered Protected Information pursuant to Protocol Section 1.3.1.1, Items Considered Protected Information, to the extent that such information is not otherwise publicly available. Accordingly, ERCOT shall not publicly release any of the protected data, documents, or other information during the Security Screening Study phase except to TSPs. Information about GINRs in the Security Screening Study phase will only be released publicly in aggregated amounts. Upon completion of the Security Screening Study, ERCOT will present the IE with a preliminary report indicating future transmission additions or enhancements that may be required to accommodate the proposed additional generation or Generation Resource modification at the specified in-service year. This report will inform the IE about any additional transmission improvements estimated to be required for the continued security and reliability of the ERCOT System. This report does not imply any commitment by ERCOT or any TSP to recommend or construct these transmission additions or enhancements. Within 180 days of the date ERCOT notifies the IE of the Security Screening Study results, the IE must notify ERCOT in writing of its desire to pursue a Full Interconnection Study (FIS), or the GINR will be withdrawn. ERCOT will notify the TSP(s) and will begin initiation and coordination of the FIS only after receiving this Notification from the IE. After the expiration of the 180-day period, an IE must submit a new GINR for a Security Screening Study and must again pay the appropriate fee. The IE will also be required to submit any updates or changes in the projects data to ERCOT. Full Interconnection Study An FIS consists of the set of steady-state, dynamic, short-circuit, and facility studies that are necessary to determine whether additional Transmission Facilities are needed to reliably interconnect the new or modified Generation Resource to the ERCOT System. The FIS is not intended to determine the deliverability of power from the proposed Generation Resource to market or the facilities required to ensure that the proposed Generation Resource does not experience any congestion-related curtailment. The IE must provide the appropriate Stability Modeling Fee and proof of site control.

(3)

(4)

(5)

(6)

5.4.2 (1)

(2)

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(3)

The IE can decide to request an FIS at any time after ERCOT deems the initial GINR application complete and before the completion of the Security Screening Study. Requesting both studies at the same time may shorten the overall time to complete the GINR process due to overlap of work on both studies. A confidential email list, known as the Transmission Owner Generation Interconnection email list, will be set up to facilitate communication of confidential GINR-related information among TSP(s) and ERCOT. Membership to this email list will be limited to ERCOT and appropriate TSP personnel. Full Interconnection Study Process Overview Within five Business Days of receiving Notice to proceed with an FIS, proof of site control and the correct fee(s) from the IE, ERCOT will designate a TSP to lead the FIS and will contact that TSP to schedule an FIS scope meeting. ERCOT will select the lead TSP based upon a preliminary analysis of the most likely Point of Interconnection (POI). If an IE has previously developed a generation project in ERCOT with the selected TSP, the IE, ERCOT, and the TSP may agree to forgo the scope meeting. If they so agree, the timeline for the IE and TSP to reach agreement on the FIS scope will start on the date ERCOT notifies the TSP of the IEs decision to proceed with the FIS. ERCOT will promptly send Notification of the FIS to all other TSP(s) via the confidential Transmission Owner Generation Interconnection email list. It is the responsibility of each TSP to determine if the proposed project would have a material impact on its Transmission Facilities and to decide whether and to what extent it should participate in the FIS. Each TSP desiring to participate in the FIS shall promptly notify the lead TSP. The lead TSP must include all interested TSPs in the FIS to the extent such involvement is reasonable. At the FIS scope meeting, the IE will present the proposed GINR and ERCOT will review the results of the Security Screening Study. The lead TSP will facilitate a general discussion of the preliminary study scope of work for the FIS. The IE and the TSP(s) must reach agreement on the FIS scope within 60 days of the FIS scope meeting. The assistance of more than one TSP may be required in areas where Transmission Facilities are provided by multiple TSPs. In these cases it may be necessary for the IE to execute study agreements with multiple TSPs The FIS scope agreement must include all assumptions, timetables, study cost estimates and payment schedules, and the determination of all requirements for interconnection. The FIS must include all studies required by this section. The IE and the TSP(s) shall consider the Security Screening Study and other preliminary studies and documents provided by the IE when developing the FIS scope. The IE and TSP(s) may divide the FIS into distinct study phases, each requiring IE approval to proceed.
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(4)

5.4.2.1 (1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(6)

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(7)

The TSP(s) shall send the FIS scope to the confidential Transmission Owner Generation Interconnection email list for review and comment by ERCOT and other TSP(s). Comments must be made within ten Business Days. If the IE and TSP(s) cannot agree to the FIS study scope within the 60-day period, ERCOT will attempt to mediate an agreement. If mediation is unsuccessful, ERCOT will consider whether the IEs GINR should be terminated. If the request is terminated, the IE will be required to file a new GINR and pay all appropriate fee(s) for any new generation project. Full Interconnection Study Elements The FIS consists of a series of distinct study elements. The specific elements that will be included in a particular FIS will be stated in the FIS study scope agreement. The primary purpose of the FIS is to determine the most effective and efficient manner in which to achieve the proposed GINR while continuing to maintain the reliability of the ERCOT System by ensuring compliance with all North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) Reliability Standards, Protocols, this Planning Guide and the Operating Guides. The scenarios and base cases being used for these studies to determine potential transmission limitations will be documented in the FIS study scope. Each proposed All-Inclusive Generation Resource that requires a separate physical transmission interconnection will be treated as an individual study to be analyzed separately from all other such requests unless otherwise agreed by the IE and TSP(s) in the interconnection study scope agreement. The FIS process includes developing and analyzing various computer model simulations of the existing and proposed ERCOT generation/transmission system. The results from these simulations will be utilized by the TSP(s) to determine the impact of the proposed interconnection. The TSP(s) will also examine normal transmission operations as well as potentially adverse, or contingency, conditions in order to identify and analyze the reliability and effectiveness of various interconnection design alternatives in alleviating or mitigating any undesirable performance of the interconnection under a variety of operating conditions. The study should include analysis demonstrating the adequate reliability of any temporary interconnection configurations. In comparing interconnection alternatives, the TSP(s) will consider such information as interconnection cost and construction schedule, impact to short and long-range reliability, operational flexibility, and compatibility with future transmission plans. The TSP(s) may consider interconnection alternatives not suggested by the IE. The TSP(s) may reserve the right to update the final FIS report to reflect changes to the ERCOT System (i.e. new Standard Generation Interconnection Agreements (SGIAs)) after the report is completed and before the SGIA is executed.
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(8)

5.4.2.2 (1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(6)

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(7)

All studies undertaken will be performed in compliance with all applicable Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) rules, NERC Reliability Standards, Protocols, this Planning Guide and the Operating Guides, Good Utility Practice, and the guidelines below unless otherwise directed by ERCOT. Steady-State Analysis The steady-state interconnection study base case shall be created from the most recently approved Steady State Working Group (SSWG) base case. TSP(s) or ERCOT may remove any future (currently nonexistent) facility from the steady-state interconnection study base case if either determines that the facility may significantly affect the interconnection study results and the facility has not already undergone appropriate review by the Regional Planning Group (RPG). In addition, ERCOT and TSP(s) may include other publicly disclosed GINRs in the steady-state interconnection study base case. ERCOT may request a list of the interconnection requests included in the FIS by the TSP(s). The TSP(s) shall perform contingency analyses as required by the NERC Reliability Standards, Protocols, this Planning Guide and the Operating Guides and identify any additional facilities that may be necessary to ensure that expected system performance conforms to these standards. All facilities necessary to reliably interconnect the proposed generation will be determined and clearly identified in the report for this part of the FIS. Any other facility that cannot be constructed or otherwise completed in time to accommodate the initial commercial operations date of the generation will be identified and reported to the IE along with any likely limitations of generation output that may result. Loss-of-generation analyses shall assume that the lost generation will be replaced from all remaining Generation Resources in proportion to their nominal capacity (i.e., inertial response), and shall consider the generation limit of each Generation Resource. The lead TSP is responsible for completing an analysis of any contingency events or Outages that could result in a violation of the NERC Reliability Standards, Protocols, this Planning Guide and the Operating Guides, regardless of which TSP owns the facilities involved. The results of this analysis will be shared with TSP(s) that have facilities involved in planning criteria violations and those affected TSP(s) will be responsible for attempting to verify the validity of the anticipated violations. System Protection (Short-Circuit) Analysis The FIS scope agreement will specify locations where available short-circuit fault duty will be identified, calculated, and documented. If any of the required transmission system improvements associated with the GINR result in violations of the TSPs short circuit criteria, the TSP shall plan and provide facilities to address such violations. The TSP will determine the maximum available fault currents at
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5.4.3 (1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

5.4.4 (1) (2)

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the interconnection substation for determining switching device interrupting capabilities and protective relay settings. 5.4.5 (1) Dynamic and Transient Stability (Unit Stability, Voltage, Subsynchronous Resonance) Analysis At the discretion of the TSP(s) or ERCOT, the TSP will perform transient stability studies if necessary to meet NERC Reliability Standards, Protocols, this Planning Guide or the Operating Guides applicable to the Generation Resource or the ERCOT System. If the TSP(s) in charge of these stability studies decides not to conduct the studies, the TSP(s) must provide a written justification in lieu of the study report. When performing such studies, all existing or publicly committed Generation Resource in the area of the study will normally be represented at full net output, although some Combined Cycle Generation Resources or coal plants might be modeled at full gross output (including auxiliary load). Any resulting increase in generation will be balanced as addressed in the FIS scope agreement. Stability study base cases shall be formed from the latest available approved SSWG base cases consistent with the most recently approved Dynamics Working Group (DWG) stability data base. The initial transmission configuration in the area of study included in a stability study base case shall be identical to that used in the steady-state studies of the same period. Any previously identified transmission improvements that will not be in service prior to the in-service date of the proposed Generation Resource shall not be included in the stability study base case. Transient stability studies will analyze the performance of the proposed Generation Resource and the ERCOT System in terms of angular stability, voltage stability and excessive frequency excursions. Additional studies may include small signal stability, subsynchronous resonance or critical clearing time analyses where the number of cycles for which a transmission line can sustain a fault without causing loss of synchronism of any of the Resource is compared to the response of the protection systems. Such studies should incorporate reasonable and conservative assumptions regarding plant operating conditions. Proposed analyses shall be identified and defined in the FIS scope agreement. All stability studies shall be performed in accordance with NERC Reliability Standards, Protocols, this Planning Guide and the Operating Guides, and the results shall identify any additional facilities or other action(s) necessary to ensure conformance with that standard. Facility Study At a minimum, the facility study provides complete details and estimated cost of the facility requirements for the direct interconnection of the proposed Generation Resource project to the TSP.
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(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

5.4.6 (1)

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(2)

The facility study will provide conceptual design descriptions, construction milestones, and detailed cost estimates for all direct interconnection-related transmission and substation facilities proposed to be installed in accordance with the findings and recommendations of the FIS. Economic Study ERCOT shall perform an independent economic analysis of the transmission projects that are identified through this process as being needed for the direct connection of the proposed Generation Resource and that are expected to cost more than $25,000,000. This economic analysis is performed only for informational purposes, and no ERCOT endorsement will be provided. If the lead TSP determines that the costs of the recommended direct interconnection facilities for the proposed Generation Resource are expected to exceed $25,000,000, the lead TSP will communicate this finding to ERCOT and other TSP(s) via the confidential Transmission Owner Generation Interconnection email list within ten Business Days of such determination. This communication will include all available information upon which that finding is based, including but not limited to: (a) (b) (c) (d) A description of the direct interconnection facilities; Information necessary to modify a power-flow case to include those facilities; Any information obtained from the IE that would be helpful in modeling the proposed Generation Resource for the study; and The estimated cost of the facilities.

5.4.7 (1)

(2)

(3) (4)

The IE shall provide to ERCOT any requested information necessary to accurately represent the Generation Resource in the economic study. ERCOT will generally complete this economic study within 90 days, and will inform the TSP(s) and IE if additional time is required. ERCOT will provide the results of the economic study to the IE and to the TSP(s) via the confidential Transmission Owner Generation Interconnection email list. FIS Study Report and Follow-up The TSP(s) will present a preliminary report of its findings and recommendations for each of the study elements to ERCOT, to the IE and to the other TSP(s) via the confidential Transmission Owner Generation Interconnection email list. Any questions, comments, proposed revisions, or clarifications by any party shall be made in writing to the TSP(s) within ten Business Days after the issuance of each study report, which may cover one or more study elements. ERCOT can extend this review
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5.4.8 (1)

(2)

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period by an additional 20 Business Days by notifying the affected TSP(s) and the IE that it needs additional time to review the report. (3) After considering the information received from ERCOT and other TSPs, the study element(s) report will be deemed complete and a final report shall be provided to the IE, ERCOT, and all TSPs. The ten Business Day review period will be used by ERCOT to determine if any transmission upgrades proposed and clearly identified in the SteadyState Study Report need to be submitted to the RPG review process. Section 3.11, Transmission Planning, of the Protocols provides more information on the process to review transmission upgrades that are unrelated to the direct connection of new or modified generation. The TSP issuing the final FIS element report shall indicate that the report is the final report required by the FIS. At the end of the ten Business Day review period following the issuance of the final FIS element report, the FIS will be deemed complete and the IE and TSP may execute an SGIA. If an economic study of the direct interconnection facilities is required, pursuant to Section 5.4.7, Economic Study, and has not yet been completed, the IE and TSP may agree that the completion of the economic study is not required before the FIS is deemed complete. Should the IE wish to proceed with the proposed GINR, the IE must execute an SGIA with the respective TSP within 180 days following the completion of the FIS (includes all major study element reports). If during the time after the FIS is completed, and before the SGIA is executed, changes occur that substantially differ from the assumptions used for the FIS, ERCOT and the TSP(s) shall determine the impact of the changes on the results of the FIS. All changes should be submitted to ERCOT on the Resource registration form for a change comparison. If the proposed direct interconnection is negatively affected by the changes, the TSP(s) will make appropriate modifications to the FIS. Proof of Site Control Before ERCOT will proceed with the initiation of an FIS, the IE must submit to ERCOT proof of site control. To establish proof of site control, the IE must demonstrate through an affiliated company, through a trustee, or directly in its name that: (a) (b) (c) The IE is the owner in fee simple of the real property to be utilized by the facilities for which any new generation interconnection is sought; The IE holds a valid written leasehold interest in the real property to be utilized by the facilities for which new generation interconnection is sought; The IE holds a valid written option to purchase or obtain a leasehold interest in the real property to be utilized by the facilities for which new generation interconnection is sought; or

(4)

(5)

(6)

5.4.9 (1)

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(d)

The IE holds a duly executed written contract to purchase or obtain a leasehold interest in the real property to be utilized by the facilities for which new generation interconnection is sought.

(2) (3)

The IE must notify ERCOT of any substantive change in status of the arrangement used to demonstrate site control. The IE must maintain site control throughout the duration of the FIS and until execution of an SGIA. Otherwise, ERCOT will consider the GINR withdrawn as of the date of the loss of site control unless the applicant can show within 30 days that it has re-established site control or has established control of a new site that would not result in any material modification of any interconnection study requested under the current application. Confidentiality Once an FIS is requested by the IE, in accordance with Protocol Section 1.3.1.2, Items Not Considered Protected Information, the following information about the potential project will become public: (a) Project identification number (INR Number) (the unique name assigned according to Section 5.2.2, Generation Interconnection or Change Request Submission Requirements); Facility nameplate capacity; Anticipated in-service date; Facility fuel type; and County where facility is located.

5.4.10 (1)

(b) (c) (d) (e) (2)

All other data, documents or other information regarding the GINR, including the identity of the IE, will remain Protected Information until ERCOT receives written Notice from the IE that this information may be made public or until an SGIA is executed. Since the FIS scope agreement contains possibly confidential cost estimates and represents an agreement between the IE and the lead TSP, it will remain Protected Information and will not be released to parties other than those who are members of the confidential Transmission Owner Generation Interconnection email list except as required in a court of law or by regulatory authorities having jurisdiction. Once classified as a public project through one of these steps, ERCOT will post on the ERCOT website the project description, all FIS reports, the results of the economic analysis of direct interconnection facilities costing over $25,000,000, and any information developed throughout the interconnection study process about transmission improvement projects that may be submitted for RPG review as a result of the new generation. The lead TSP will notify the RPG email list within ten Business Days of the signing of an SGIA when the cost of the direct interconnection facilities is greater than $25,000,000.
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5.5 5.5.1 (1)

Interconnection Agreement Standard Generation Interconnection Agreement If the Interconnecting Entity (IE) decides to proceed with the construction and completion of the proposed generation project and interconnection within the 180-day period following the completion of the Full Interconnection Study (FIS), it shall execute a Standard Generation Interconnection Agreement (SGIA) with its respective Transmission Service Provider (TSP) as a condition for obtaining transmission service, as required by P.U.C. SUBST. R. 25.195, Terms and Conditions for Transmission Service. The IE and the TSP shall use the SGIA. A template of the SGIA can be found on the ERCOT website. Before an SGIA is signed, all studies included in the FIS scope must be completed, unless mutually agreed by the IE and the TSP. The IE and TSP must meet and maintain compliance with all North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) Reliability Standards, Protocols, and the requirements of this Planning Guide and the Operating Guides concerning interconnection. ERCOT does not participate in the IEs and TSPs negotiation of the SGIA. Other Arrangements for Transmission Service

(2)

(3) 5.5.2

In certain situations, the IE and the TSP may agree to allow the TSP to begin design or construction of facilities prior to the execution of the SGIA, or to allow the IE to delay issuing a Notice to proceed until sometime after the SGIA is signed. The TSP shall submit documentation of any alternative arrangements of this type to ERCOT within ten Business Days of executing the alternative arrangement. 5.5.3 (1) Provisions for Municipally Owned Utilities and Cooperatives A Municipally Owned Utility (MOU) or Electric Cooperative (EC) developing a proposed Generation Resource that will interconnect to its own transmission system is not required to execute an SGIA. However, an MOU or EC must execute an SGIA if its proposed Generation Resource would interconnect with another TSPs facilities. A letter from a duly authorized official from the MOU or EC confirming the Entitys intent to construct and operate the proposed Generation Resource will be deemed by ERCOT to be sufficient as a public commitment by the MOU or EC and will have the same impact as an SGIA for all purposes. Notification to ERCOT Concerning Certain Project Developments The following notifications shall be provided to ERCOT at [email protected]:
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(2)

5.5.4 (1)

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(a) (b) (c)

The IE shall notify ERCOT within ten Business Days of when it has given the TSP notice to proceed with the FIS. The TSP must transmit a copy of the signed SGIA to ERCOT within ten Business Days of execution. The TSP must transmit to ERCOT within a ten Business Days of execution a copy of any financially binding agreement between the IE and the TSP under which the interconnection for a Generation Resource will be constructed. The TSP must transmit a written notice to ERCOT within ten Business Days after it receives both a notice to proceed with construction of the interconnection for the Generation Resource and the financial security sufficient to fund the interconnection facilities pursuant to either agreement addressed in (1)(b) or (1)(c) above. A MOU or EC must transmit a letter from a duly authorized official to ERCOT confirming the Entitys intent to construct and operate a proposed Generation Resource and interconnect such Generation Resource to its own transmission system.

(d)

(e)

5.6

Compliance with Operational Standards

As permitted by paragraph (3) of Protocol Section 16.5, Registration of a Resource Entity, if at any time before initial synchronization of an All-Inclusive Generation Resource, ERCOT reasonably determines that the Resource may violate operational standards established in the Protocols, this Planning Guide, the Operating Guides, and Other Binding Documents, ERCOT may require the affected Resource Entity to demonstrate to ERCOTs reasonable satisfaction that the Generation Resource can comply with these standards before the Generation Resource is permitted to synchronize. ERCOT may refuse to allow synchronization of an All-Inclusive Generation Resource if the Resource Entity cannot demonstrate that the Generation Resource can comply with these standards. 5.7 5.7.1 (1) Interconnection Data, Fees, and Timetables Generation Resource Data Requirements The Interconnecting Entity (IE) shall submit with its Generation Interconnection or Change Request (GINR) the most current actual facility information (generation, substation, and transmission/subtransmission if applicable) or best available expected performance data for the physical and electrical characteristics of all proposed facilities (in sufficient detail to provide a basis for modeling) up to the Point of Interconnection (POI) with a Transmission Service Provider (TSP).

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(2)

Failure to supply the required data may delay ERCOT processing of the interconnection application and studies. Recommendations resulting from these studies that are based on outdated, false, or bad data may adversely affect the safety and reliability of the ERCOT System and can result in damage to generation or transmission equipment. The IE and subsequently, the Resource Entity associated with any approved Generation Resource, must promptly submit any updates to ERCOT to ensure the long-term adequacy, reliability, and safety of the ERCOT System, as required by the Protocols, this Planning Guide, the Operating Guides, and North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) Reliability Standards. Failure to comply may result in financial penalties. In an effort to produce the best available Security Screening Study and Full Interconnection Study (FIS), ERCOT suggests that IEs begin collecting all appropriate engineering and equipment data from manufacturers as soon as the IE selects its major equipment for the proposed project. While the duty to update data may require additional information, at a minimum, the IE should submit the following data and information to be provided to ERCOT at each step of the process: (a) (i) (ii) (b) (i) (ii) Application and Security Screening Study: Generation Resource Information Sheet; and Generation Interconnection Screening Study Request Data Sheet. FIS: Updates to the above information (if necessary); Applicable information required for interconnection studies as described in the Resource registration form instructions in all tabs applicable to the Generation Resource type within the Resource registration form; Provision of the appropriate dynamic model for the proposed Generation Resource (some standard dynamic model forms are posted on the ERCOT website); If alternative models are required to appropriately represent the proposed Generation Resource, an alternative model may be provided by the IE, subject to verification by the lead TSP and ERCOT; and In order to perform stability (transient and voltage) analyses, the IE shall provide unit stability information and data to the TSP(s) and ERCOT. The Dynamics Working Group Procedural Manual contains more detail and IE dynamics data requirements. Data submitted for transient stability models shall be compatible with ERCOT standard models (Siemens/PTI PSS/E and Powertech Labs Inc TSAT, VSAT and SSAT). If no compatible model exists, the IE shall work with a consultant or software vendor to
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(3)

(4)

(iii)

(iv)

(v)

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develop and supply accurate/appropriate models along with other associated data. These models shall be incorporated into the standard model libraries of both software packages. It is recommended that generation owners and developers encourage manufacturers and software vendors to work together to develop and maintain these important models. (c) (i) Prior to start of construction: Any significant design changes in the generator(s) or main power transformer(s) of the proposed Generation Resource shall be provided to ERCOT and the TSP to ensure compatibility with the existing transmission system. Prior to commercial service: Registration and official Resource registration form submittal; Updates to Resource registration form information based on as-built or as-tested data in all cases; and Proof of meeting ERCOT requirements (reactive, low-Voltage RideThrough (VRT) standards, stability models, Power System Stabilizer (PSS)). During continuing operations: The IE shall provide ERCOT and the TSP with any equipment data changes which result from equipment replacement, repair, or adjustment. Unless otherwise required in the Protocols, this Planning Guide or the Operating Guides, the IE shall provide such data to ERCOT and the TSP no later than 60 days prior to the date of the actual change in equipment characteristics or during annual data update filings whichever occurs first. This requirement shall also apply to all future owners throughout the service life of the project/plant.

(d) (i) (ii) (iii)

(e) (i)

5.7.2 (1)

Interconnection Study Fees P.U.C. SUBST. R. 25.198, Initiating Transmission Service, states in part that the customer requesting transmission service shall be responsible for all costs associated with the completion of the Security Screening Study and the FIS. The ERCOT Security Screening Study fee is a non-refundable fee associated with each specific interconnection request. The amount of this fee is listed in the ERCOT Fee Schedule of the Protocols. The appropriate Security Screening Study fee must be remitted for each GINR (i.e., each individual interconnection location, in-service date, and additional Generation Resource capacity at this specific interconnection location) at the time the application is submitted to ERCOT.
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(3) 5.7.3 (1)

The check should be made payable to the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, Inc. Stability Modeling Fee The ERCOT Stability Modeling Fee is a non-refundable fee based on the MW of additional installed capacity and is paid directly to ERCOT when an FIS is requested. The amount of this fee is listed in the ERCOT Fee Schedule of the Protocols. This fee will reimburse ERCOT for the development of stability software models for each proposed Generation Resource and allow for continually updating current models as new equipment changes are made. The check should be made payable to the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, Inc. Payment of the Stability Modeling Fee to ERCOT does not release an IE from its obligation to provide ERCOT accurate and appropriate stability software models and data (including load data) for each of its proposed generation plants. Full Interconnection Study Fee/Cost The FIS fee/cost shall be paid directly to the TSP(s) completing the studies associated with the FIS by the IE. The fee/cost will be agreed on and specified in the study scope agreement. The TSP(s) shall directly invoice the IE for the reasonable costs associated with undertaking and completing the FIS. ERCOT recommends that the Generation Resource and the TSP provide for a payment methodology and include a cancellation provision in the FIS scope agreement. If the IE cancels the proposed Generation Resource during the term of the FIS, the IE is required to immediately notify ERCOT and the lead TSP. The lead TSP should immediately notify any other TSPs that may be participating in the study, via the confidential Transmission Owner Generation Interconnection email list. The IE is responsible for all costs associated with any work performed or non-cancelable commitments made prior to notifying ERCOT and the TSP(s) of the termination date of the project. ERCOT highly recommends the TSP(s) receive the study fee before proceeding with work. Interconnection Process Timetables P.U.C. SUBST. R. 25.198, Initiating Transmission Service, provides deadlines for ERCOT and TSP(s) to complete and report on the required interconnection studies provided that the IE submits all required data and appropriate fee(s). Therefore, the IE must ensure that ERCOT and the TSP(s) performing these studies receive all required data in order to establish reasonable study models and assumptions that provide meaningful results and recommendations for interconnecting the proposed generating project.
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(2)

(3)

5.7.4 (1)

(2) (3)

(4)

5.7.5 (1)

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(2)

Because the FIS is generally the critical path item in the GINR process, ERCOT recommends that a timetable for the FIS be developed and included in the study scope agreement. In addition, major improvements to the transmission system resulting from interconnection requests should be identified as early in the process as possible so project validity can be considered before the parties go forward with extensive interconnection studies. Once the FIS is underway, the parties may determine whether an adjustment to the original estimated completion date is necessary. Should a schedule adjustment become necessary, the parties must provide Notice to ERCOT and the TSP(s) as soon as practicable, indicating the revised expected completion date. The following timetable complies with P.U.C. SUBST. R 25.198. It is intended to serve as a guideline only and the times stated are not requirements unless stated elsewhere in this section. If the number of days shown is less than 30, these are Business Days; if the number of days shown is 30 days or more, these are calendar days. Task Responsible Entity ERCOT ERCOT ERCOT Time Required to Complete (Days) 1 to 10 1 to 15 10 to 90

(3)

Acknowledgement of GINR Application Notification of Additional Information Needed to Complete Application Perform Security Screening Study (after application is deemed complete) Decision to Pursue FIS (following issuance of Security Screening Study by ERCOT) Develop Scope Agreement for FIS (following IEs Notification to ERCOT of desire for FIS and remittance of appropriate fees) Perform FIS (following agreement on scope) Steady-State and Transfer Analysis System Protection Analysis (following Steady-State Analysis) Dynamic and Transient Stability Analysis (following System Protection Study)

IE

Up to 180

IE, ERCOT, and TSP(s)

Up to 60

40 to 300 TSP(s) TSP(s) 10 to 90 10 to 30

TSP(s)

10 to 90

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Task Facility Study Study Report Review and Acceptance (following issuance of FIS) Negotiate and Execute SGIA (following acceptance of FIS) 5.8 5.8.1

Responsible Entity TSP(s) IE, ERCOT, and TSP(s) IE and TSP

Time Required to Complete (Days) 10 to 90 10 to 15 180

GENERAL AND TECHNICAL STANDARDS Other Standards

The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) Reliability Standards, the Protocols, this Planning Guide and the Operating Guides also contain provisions that apply to Generation Resources. 5.8.2 Transformer Tap Position

The Interconnecting Entity (IE) will contact the Transmission Service Provider (TSP) providing the interconnection before the main power transformers are placed into service and will work with the TSP to select the tap position on the main power transformers. The Generation Resource will confirm the use of this tap position with the TSP and ERCOT. The main power transformer will be considered the step-up to the transmission level voltage of the interconnection.

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