T

TRRA
ANN SS M
M II SS SS II O
ONN SS E
ERRV
V II C
CEE SS SS T
TAAN
NDDA
ARRD
D

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the

BPA Transmission Grid
STD-N-000001

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTENT...................................................................................................................... 5
1.1 Applicable Codes, Standards, Criteria and Regulations............................. 6
1.2 Effect of the National Environmental Policy Act.......................................... 6
1.3 Safety, Protection, and Reliability................................................................. 6
1.4 Responsibilities of the Parties ...................................................................... 6
1.5 Special Disturbance Studies ......................................................................... 7
1.6 Cost Estimates................................................................................................ 7
2. DEFINITIONS ............................................................................................................ 8
3. BACKGROUND....................................................................................................... 16
3.1 Revision History ........................................................................................... 16
4. REQUIRED INFORMATION FOR INTERCONNECTIONS ..................................... 17
4.1 Introduction................................................................................................... 17
4.2 Connection Location.................................................................................... 17
4.3 Electrical Data............................................................................................... 17
4.3.1 Electrical One-Line Diagram .................................................................... 17
4.3.2 Generator Data ........................................................................................ 17
4.3.3 Load Information Requirements............................................................... 18
5. SYSTEM PLANNING & PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS ................................ 20
5.1 General Configurations................................................................................ 20
5.2 Special Configurations ................................................................................ 20
5.2.1 Connection to Main Grid Transmission Lines and Substations................ 20
5.2.2 Connection to 287 kV and 345 kV Lines .................................................. 21
5.3 Generators (General Requirements)........................................................... 21
5.3.1 Generator Operation During Emergency System Conditions................... 21
5.3.2 Generator Performance During System Disturbances (Swings) .............. 21
5.3.3 Generator Low Voltage Ride Through Capability..................................... 21
5.3.4 Reactive Power Requirements ................................................................ 21
5.3.5 Asynchronous Generators ....................................................................... 22
5.3.6 Synchronous Generators ......................................................................... 26
5.3.7 Generator Performance Testing, Monitoring and Validation .................... 28
5.3.8 Blackstart Capability ................................................................................ 29
5.4 System Stability and Reliability................................................................... 30
Submitted Concurred Approved

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 PAGE 1 OF 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

5.4.1 Key Reliability and Availability Considerations......................................... 30

5.4.2 Atmospheric and Seismic ........................................................................ 31
5.4.3 Physical Security ..................................................................................... 31
5.4.4 Transmission and Substation Facilities.................................................... 31
5.4.5 Insulation Coordination ............................................................................ 31
5.4.6 Temporary Overvoltages ......................................................................... 32
5.4.7 Ancillary Services .................................................................................... 32
5.4.8 Power Quality .......................................................................................... 33
6. GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS ............................................................... 35
6.1 Minimizing Disturbances ............................................................................. 35
6.2 Existing Equipment ...................................................................................... 35
6.3 Safety and Isolating Devices ....................................................................... 35
6.4 Configuration for Sectionalizing and Maintenance ................................... 36
6.5 Synchro-phasers (Phasor Measuring Units) .............................................. 36
6.6 STATCOM Type Controllable Reactive Power Devices............................. 37
6.7 Higher Speed Switching of Low Voltage Shunt Capacitors...................... 37
7. SUBSTATION FACILITY / HIGH VOLTAGE EQUIPMENT DESIGN ..................... 38
7.1 BPA Substation Requirements.................................................................... 38
7.2 Customer Built Substations and Facilities................................................. 38
7.3 Switchgear .................................................................................................... 39
7.3.2 Circuit Breaker Operating Times.............................................................. 39
7.3.3 Other Fault-Interrupting Devices.............................................................. 40
7.3.4 Transformers, Shunt Reactance and Phase Shifters ............................... 40
7.4 Transformer Considerations ....................................................................... 40
7.4.1 New Installations...................................................................................... 40
7.4.2 Existing Installations ................................................................................ 41
7.4.3 Neutral Shifts ........................................................................................... 42
7.5 Substation Grounding.................................................................................. 43
7.6 Station Service.............................................................................................. 43
8. TRANSMISSION LINE DESIGN.............................................................................. 45
8.1 ROW Width.................................................................................................... 45
8.2 Cable and Structure Design......................................................................... 45
8.3 Lightning Protection and Grounding.......................................................... 45
8.4 Surge Protection........................................................................................... 46
8.5 Underbuild..................................................................................................... 46
9. CONTROL & PROTECTION DESIGN .................................................................... 47
9.1 Control and Protection Requirements........................................................ 47
9.1.1 Introduction .............................................................................................. 47
9.1.2 Protection Criteria .................................................................................... 48
9.1.3 Protection System Selection and Coordination........................................ 52
9.1.4 Generator Protection - Special Requirements ......................................... 54
9.1.5 Special Protection or Remedial Action Schemes..................................... 69
9.1.6 Disturbance Monitoring ............................................................................ 72
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 2 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

10. TELECOMMUNICATION DESIGN.......................................................................... 74

10.1 Introduction................................................................................................... 74
10.2 Radio Systems.............................................................................................. 74
10.3 Fiber Optic Systems..................................................................................... 74
10.4 Wireline Facilities ......................................................................................... 75
10.5 Voice Communications................................................................................ 75
10.5.1 Basic Requirements................................................................................. 75
10.5.2 Automatic Ringdown Trunks .................................................................... 75
10.5.3 Dial Automatic Telephone Switching – DATS .......................................... 75
10.5.4 Independent Communications ................................................................. 75
10.6 Data Communications.................................................................................. 76
10.6.1 SCADA .................................................................................................... 76
10.6.2 Automatic Generator Control (AGC) Interchange & Control Telemetering
76
10.6.3 General Telemetering .............................................................................. 76
10.6.4 Revenue Metering System (RMS) ........................................................... 76
10.7 Telecommunications for Control and Protection ...................................... 76
10.7.1 Application on Main Grid Transmission.................................................... 76
10.7.2 Speed of Operation.................................................................................. 77
10.7.3 Equipment Compatibility .......................................................................... 77
10.8 Telecommunications During Emergency Conditions ............................... 77
10.8.1 Emergency Conditions............................................................................. 77
10.8.2 Backup Equipment................................................................................... 78
10.8.3 Disaster Recovery ................................................................................... 78
10.8.4 Telecommunications Security .................................................................. 78
11. COMMISSIONING ................................................................................................... 79
11.1 Pre-energization Inspection and Testing ................................................... 79
11.1.1 Installation and Commissioning Test Requirements for Metering ............ 79
11.1.2 Installation and Commissioning Test Requirements for Protection Systems
79
11.2 Technical Operations Requirements .......................................................... 81
12. COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS & METERING REQUIREMENTS .......................... 82
12.1 Data Requirements For System Operation And Scheduling .................... 82
12.2 Telemetering Data Requirements for BPA Control Centers ..................... 82
12.2.1 Facilities Tied to the BPA Balancing Authority Area Boundary ................ 82
12.2.2 Data Requirements for Balancing Authority Area Services...................... 87
12.2.3 Generation and Network Interchange Scheduling Requirements ............ 94
12.2.4 Revenue and Interchange Metering System............................................ 96
12.2.5 Calibration of Metering, Telemetering, and Data Facilities....................... 96
12.2.6 Variable Generation Remote Dispatch and Data Requirements.............. 96
12.3 Voltage Schedules...................................................................................... 100
12.4 Reactive Power ........................................................................................... 100
12.5 Power System Disturbances and Emergency Conditions ...................... 101
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 3 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

12.5.1 System Frequency During Disturbances................................................ 101

12.5.2 Voltages During Disturbances ............................................................... 101
12.5.3 Local Islands.......................................................................................... 101
12.5.4 Responsibilities During Emergency Conditions ..................................... 101
13. MAINTENANCE .................................................................................................... 103
13.1 Outage Planning ......................................................................................... 103
13.2 Switchable Devices .................................................................................... 103
13.3 Frequency and Duration of Outages......................................................... 103
13.4 Inspection, Test, Calibration and Maintenance........................................ 103
13.4.1 Summary of the WECC Transmission Maintenance and Inspection Plan
(TMIP) 104
13.5 Calibration and Maintenance of Revenue and Interchange Metering .... 105
13.6 Synchronizing............................................................................................. 105
14. REFERENCES ...................................................................................................... 106
14.1 Bonneville Power Administration - United States and Other Codes...... 106
14.2 ANSI – IEEE – NFPA ................................................................................... 106

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 4 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

1. INTENT
The Bonneville Power Administration, Transmission Services (TS) prepared this
Technical Requirements For Interconnection To The BPA Transmission Grid document
to identify technical requirements for connecting transmission lines, loads and
generation resources into the BPA Grid. Also included are the Balancing Authority Area
(BAA) requirements for generation connected to a utility system located within BPA’s
BAA. The purpose of these requirements is to assure the safe operation, integrity and
reliability of the BPA Grid.
This document is not intended as a design specification or an instruction manual. The
information presented is expected to change periodically based on industry events and
evolving standards. Technical requirements stated herein are consistent with BPA’s
current internal practices for system additions and modifications. These requirements
are generally consistent with principles and practices of the North American Electric
Reliability Corporation (NERC), Western Electric Coordinating Council (WECC),
Northwest Power Pool (NWPP), Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
and American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Standards of the above listed
organizations are also subject to change. The most recent version of such standards
shall apply to each interconnection request.
Contractual matters, such as costs, ownership, scheduling, and billing are not the focus
of this document. Official requests for Interconnections or Transmission Service are not
addressed by this document. BPA’s Open Access Transmission Tariff governs the
commercial aspects of interconnections and transmission service. Please refer to the
BPA web site, www.bpa.gov, or contact a TS Account Executive for more information on
the interconnection process, business practices, contractual matters or transmission
services. Refer to the Large Generator, Small Generator and Line/Load procedures
and business practices for additional information.
http://www.transmission.bpa.gov/business/generation_interconnection/
Requests to interconnect generating resources or loads (Projects) are typically
submitted by the project developer but may be made in conjunction with what
Transmission Services refers to as a “Host Utility”, a utility located within BPA’s
Balancing Authority Area. BPA refers to the entity that submits the interconnection
request as the Requester. BPA evaluates and studies each Project individually, as it
was described in the request and determines impacts to BPA transmission facilities and,
if applicable, impacts to neighboring affected systems.
This document also addresses interconnection through another utility that may not
result in a direct interconnection to the BPA Grid. Through telemetering and
communications interconnections, BPA may incorporate loads, generators or
transmission lines into the BPA Balancing Authority Area. This type of interconnection,
which uses dynamic signals and telemetering, may transfer ancillary services from one
party to another.
Interconnection evaluations and studies usually result in a proposed plan of service for
physical and communications interconnections. Physical laws that govern the behavior
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 5 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

of electric systems do not recognize boundaries of electric facility ownership. Therefore

the electric power systems must be studied, without regard to ownership, to develop a
properly designed interconnection. The completed review may include studies of short-
circuit fault duties, transient voltages, reactive power requirements, stability
requirements, harmonics, safety, operations, maintenance and prudent electric utility
practices.
In this document, the terms BPA, BPA Balancing Authority Area, BPA Grid, etc. all refer
only to the BPA Transmission Services organization and transmission system, not to the
BPA Power Services (PS) organization. An interconnection request from BPA Power
Services is handled in the same manner as from any other Requester. The term
”Requester” describes the utility, developer or other entity that requests a new or
modified connection for a line, load or generation interconnection. The proposed
interconnection may be directly to BPA’s transmission system, or to another utility’s
system that is located within BPA’s Balancing Authority Area.
These technical requirements generally apply to all new or modified interconnections to
the BPA Grid and telemetered balancing authority area interconnections. The location
and type of the facility, and impacts on the BPA Grid or another utility’s system
determine the specific requirements. The interconnection must not degrade the safe
operation, integrity and reliability of the BPA Grid. The interconnection requirements
are intended to protect BPA facilities, but cannot be relied upon to protect the
Requester’s facilities.
1.1 Applicable Codes, Standards, Criteria and Regulations
To the extent that the codes, standards, criteria and regulations are applicable, the new
or modified facilities shall be in compliance with those listed in Section 14.
1.2 Effect of the National Environmental Policy Act
Federal law requires that BPA comply with the National Environmental Policy Act
(NEPA). BPA cannot commit to construction or interconnection agreements until its
NEPA requirements are satisfied.
1.3 Safety, Protection, and Reliability
BPA will make the final determination as to whether the BPA facilities are properly
protected before an interconnection is energized. The Requester or interconnecting
utility is responsible for proper protection of their own equipment and for correcting such
problems before facilities are energized or interconnected operation begins. BPA may
determine equivalent measures to maintain the safe operation and reliability of the BPA
Grid. For most generators and some loads, this will include BPA capability for direct
tripping through special protection schemes. In situations where there is direct
interconnection with another utility’s system, the requirements of that utility also apply.
1.4 Responsibilities of the Parties
BPA, the Requester and if applicable, the interconnecting utility, are each responsible
for the planning, design, construction, compliance with applicable statutes, reliability,

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 6 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

protection, and safe operation and maintenance of their own facilities unless otherwise
identified in the construction, operation and/or maintenance agreements.
1.5 Special Disturbance Studies
BPA uses series and shunt capacitors, shunt reactive devices, high-speed reclosing,
single-pole switching and high-speed reactive switching at various locations. These
devices and operating modes, as well as other disturbances and imbalances, may
cause stress on interconnected facilities. This may include the possibility of electro-
mechanical resonance between a generator and the power system, or large angle
changes when considering high-speed reclosing. BPA conducts studies of
interconnection impacts to BPA facilities at the Requester’s expense. The Requester is
solely responsible for any additional studies necessary to evaluate possible stresses on
their equipment and for any corrective actions.
1.6 Cost Estimates
BPA develops application-specific cost estimates as part of the interconnection studies
since each interconnection is different and causes different impacts to BPA facilities.
Cost estimates progress with study development, from typical estimates used in the
feasibility and system impact stages, to budget quality cost estimates used for business
case and work order approval.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 7 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

2. DEFINITIONS
For industry standard definitions of electric industry terminology, please refer to:
The Authoritative Dictionary of IEEE Standards Terms, IEEE 100.
For Bonneville Power definitions of electric utility terminology, please refer to:
BPA Definitions, available through BPA’s Document Request Line (800) 622-4520 or
www.bpa.gov/corporate/kcc/defn/starttx.shtml
For the purposes of this document the following definitions apply:
Active Power: The ‘real’ component of complex power carried by an alternating-
current circuit, produced by mutually-in-phase components of voltage and current
waveforms. Active power can be calculated as the product of apparent power and the
power factor. Measured in units of watts (W), kW or MW, active power is associated
with useful work, including mechanical work and heat. Active power used or transmitted
over time is energy, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh) or megawatt-hours (MWh.). Also
known as ‘real power’. See also ‘power factor’.
Ancillary Services: The term used by FERC to describe the special services that must
be exchanged among generation resources, load customers and transmission providers
to operate the system in a reliable fashion and allow separation of generation,
transmission and distribution functions. These include: 1) scheduling, system control
and dispatching, 2) reactive power supply and voltage control from generators, 3)
regulation and frequency response, 4) energy imbalance, 5) spinning reserves, and 6)
supplemental reserves. Most of these services are included in a similar set by NERC
and termed Interconnected Operations Services, which also include load following and
black start capability.
WECC Definition: Interconnected Operations Services identified by the U.S. Federal
Energy Regulatory Commission (Order No. 888 issued April 24, 1996) as necessary to
affect a transfer of electricity between purchasing and selling entities and which a
transmission provider must include in an open access transmission tariff.
Area Control Error (ACE): Area Control Error (ACE) is the instantaneous difference
between net actual and scheduled interchange, taking into account the effects of
frequency bias including a correction for meter error.
Automatic Generation Control (AGC) System: A system that measures
instantaneous loads at interchange points (boundaries with adjacent control area) and
adjusts generation to follow load. It consists of continuous, real time load signals (kW),
telemetered to AGC computers at a transmission control center.
NERC Definition: Equipment which automatically adjusts a control area’s generation
from a central location to maintain its interchange Schedule Plus frequency bias.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 8 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Balancing Authority Area: A term adopted by FERC, NERC and WECC to replace
“Control Area”.
The electrical (not necessarily geographical) area within which a controlling utility has
the responsibility to adjust its generation to match internal load and power flow across
interchange boundaries to other control areas.
A resource or portion of a resource that is scheduled by a specific utility. If the utility
schedules the resource, the resource becomes part of its control area. Physical
location of the connection point does not determine its control area.
WECC Definition: An area comprised of an electric system or systems, bounded by
interconnection metering and telemetry, capable of controlling generation to maintain its
interchange schedule with other control areas, and contributing to frequency regulation
of the interconnection.
Blackstart Capability: The ability of a generating plant to start its unit(s) with no
external source of electric power. (WECC definition)
BPA Dispatcher: The BPA Dispatcher or system operator is the ultimate authority on
all operations, switching, etc. that can affect the BPA Grid. The BPA Dispatchers work
24/7 in two control centers located at Mead and Vancouver, Washington.
BPA Grid: The transmission facilities owned or controlled by Bonneville Power
Administration, Transmission Services.
Control Area: See definition for “Balancing Authority Area”.
Coordinated Voltage Control (CVC): Using AGC data links to the power plant, BPA
will request a power plant to deviate from the published time-of-day high side bus
voltage schedule to coordinate closely coupled power plants to operate at the same
power factor. By minimizing circulating var flow between power plants, all power plants
will minimize their var production requirements. The CVC program runs once every
two-minutes. It is a slow adjustment of voltage schedules and is not intended to replace
the function of the automatic voltage regulator. Closely coupled power plants are
determined by incrementing and decrementing the bus voltages 0.01 pu in a power flow
study. Plants that show significant response by a change in var production are
considered closely coupled. Examples include: Chief Joseph and Grand Coulee 230
kV and 500 kV; Centralia and Big Hanaford and Chehalis 500 kV; John Day and
Boardman and Coyote Springs and Calpine Hermiston 500 kV and McNary and US Gen
230 kV.
Directional Relay: A relay that responds to the relative phase position of a current with
respect to another current or voltage reference, with the intent of distinguishing the
direction of the fault location.
Distribution: That part of the electric grid associated with delivery of energy to
customers. Distribution-level nominal voltages are generally considered to be 34.5 kV
or lower. The set of distribution facilities owned, leased, or operated by BPA is not

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 9 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

extensive, and BPA policy is to sell low voltage delivery facilities to distribution utilities
whenever possible.
Disturbance: An unplanned event that produces an abnormal system condition.
(WECC definition) The most common disturbances are: (a) faults with subsequent
tripping of a transmission line or distribution feeder and (b) loss of a generator with
subsequent temporary system frequency decrease.
Dynamic Signal: A telemetered reading or value that is updated in real time, and
which is used either as a tie line flow or as a schedule in the AGC/ACE equation
(depending on the particular circumstances). Common applications of dynamic signals
include ‘scheduling’ jointly owned generation to or from another control area and to
move control area boundaries. Another application provides for an entity to request
(schedule) a change in power flow. The resulting response is telemetered to the entity
signifying the actual movement of a resource. This form of dynamic signal is applied to
supplemental control area services. The integrated value of this signal is used for
interchange accounting purposes, as appropriate.
Eccentric (Non-Conforming) Loads: Any cyclic load with the ability to change
periodically by more than 50MW at a rate of greater than 50MW per minute, regardless
of the duration of this change.
Effectively Grounded: A system that provides an X0/X1<3 & R0/X1<1 where X0 and
R0 are zero sequence reactance and resistance respectively, and X1 is positive
sequence reactance.
Fault: A short circuit on an electrical transmission or distribution system between
phases or between phases(s) and ground, characterized by high currents and low
voltages.
Feeder: A radial electrical circuit, generally operating at or below 69 kV serving one or
more customers.
FERC: Federal Energy Regulatory Commission On-line at www.ferc.gov.
Ferroresonance: A phenomenon usually characterized by overvoltages and very
irregular wave shapes and associated with the excitation of one or more saturable
inductors through capacitance in series with the inductor. (IEEE definition). A condition
of sustained waveform distortion and overvoltages created when a relatively weak
source of voltage energizes the combination of capacitance and saturable transformers.
A sufficient amount of damping, or resistance, in the circuit usually controls or
eliminates the phenomenon.
Generation Site: The geographical location of the Project generator(s) and local
generator equipment. This may be near or far from either the Point of Interconnection
or the Interconnecting Substation.
Harmonic: A sinusoidal component of a periodic wave or quantity having a frequency
that is an integer multiple of the fundamental frequency. (IEEE definition) Harmonics
can damage equipment, cause misoperation of relays, and can interfere with

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 10 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

communications. Thus, they are an important aspect of power quality, and must be
controlled by filtering or other methods.
Host Control Area: A control area that is operated by an authority other than BPA
which does not overlap with the BPA Control Area.
Hybrid Single Pole Switching: A variation of single-pole switching that is used on
long lines to extinguish the secondary arc of single line-to-ground faults. The faulted
phase is detected and opened first via single-pole relaying. After approximately fifty
cycles the two unfaulted phases are opened to extinguish the secondary arc. Three-
phase automatic reclosing follows.
IEEE: Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers.
Interchange Metering: Metering at interchange points between two controlling utilities,
consisting of AGC (continuous kW) telemetering and hourly kWh (on-the-hour hourly
load kWh). These quantities must go to both controlling utilities so they can manage
their respective control areas.
Interchange Point: Locations where power flows from one control area to another (i.e.
connection between two controlling utilities).
Inter-Control Center Communications Protocol (ICCP): Inter-Control Center
Communication Protocol (ICCP) is an international standard communications protocol
for real time data exchange. The ICCP is defined in the international standard IEC 870-
6 TASE.2.
Island, intentional: A utility practice to deliberately isolate a portion of its distribution
line to use local generation to serve load during an outage of the transmission system.
Island, unintentional: A portion of an interconnected system that becomes isolated
due to a fault clearing or RAS action, resulting in a portion of the transmission system
divided split into isolated load and generation groups.
Main Grid: BPA’s Main Grid transmission facilities include all 500 kV lines, 345 kV
lines, as well as some lower voltage lines and supporting facilities (e.g., transformers)
that carry bulk power within the Northwest. Main grid lines and equipment include the
most critical equipment to the reliability of the BPA Grid.
MV-90: The Multi-Vendor Translation System interprets a variety of metering
communication protocols used for data collection and analysis. Data is retrieved over
dial-up (voice grade) telephone lines by the MV-90 master located at the BPA Control
Center. The master automatically polls the remotes daily can be used to poll a remote
at any time. In addition to polling raw impulses from the recorders, MV-90 can
perform data validation, editing, reporting and historical database functions.
NERC: North American Electric Reliability Council is a not-for-profit corporation formed
by the electric utility industry in 1968 to promote the reliability of the electricity supply in
North America. NERC consists of 10 Regional Reliability Councils, one of which is the
Western Electricity Coordinating Council. On-line at www.nerc.com .

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 11 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

OASIS: Open Access Same-Time Information System is an electronic posting system

for transmission access data that allows all transmission customers to view the data
simultaneously.
Phase Unbalance: The percent deviation of voltage or current magnitude in one phase
as compared to the mean average of all three phases.
Pilot Protection (Pilot Telecommunications): A communications signal between two
protective relay terminals used to provide a trip signal between terminals. The
communication channel may be power line carrier, microwave (or other radio-based)
path, fiber optic circuit, leased telephone line, or a dedicated hardwire circuit.
Point of Interconnection (POI): The physical location on the power system at which
Requester-owned facilities connect to those owned by BPA, defining the ‘change of
ownership.
Power Factor: The dimensionless ratio of active power to apparent power in an
alternating-current (ac) circuit. The power factor can range only between unity (with
voltage and current mutually in phase), and zero (with voltage and current 90 electrical
degrees mutually out of phase). A condition of ‘lagging’ power factor occurs when
active power and reactive power propagate in the same direction – e.g., with inductive
loads, which always consume reactive power; or with generators, when delivering
reactive power. A condition of ‘leading’ power factor occurs when active power and
reactive power propagate in opposite directions – e.g., with capacitive loads, which
always delivers reactive power; or with generators, when consuming reactive power.
For generators, operation with a lagging power factor is called an ‘overexcited’
condition; a leading power factor implies ‘under excited’ operation. Power factor is the
cosine of the electrical angle between the voltage and current.
Power System: Integrated electrical power generation, transmission and distribution
facilities.
Power System Stabilizer (PSS): A device that provides an additional input to the
exciter of a generator to provide damping of power system oscillations and improve
system stability.
Project: Non-BPA owned facilities included in the interconnection request.
Project Requirements Diagram (PRD): A BPA simplified drawing showing the
electrical requirements for the connection of a generator, a transmission line or a load to
the BPA Grid. The PRD consists of one or more pages that may include a connection
diagram of the 60 Hz high voltage equipment, telecommunications and data
requirements, and remedial action scheme (RAS) requirements.
Reactive Power: The ‘imaginary’ component of complex power carried by an
alternating-current circuit, produced by components of voltage and current waveforms
that are mutually out of phase by 90 electrical degrees. Reactive power can be
calculated as the product of apparent power and the sine of the power factor angle.
Measured in units of volt-amperes reactive (var), Kvar or Mvar, reactive power is
associated with the alternating exchange of stored energy between electric and
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 12 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

magnetic fields. Although reactive power does no useful work, it is inherently required
for operating any alternating-current power system or HVDC converter. By convention,
reactive power is absorbed or consumed by an inductance and generated or produced
by a capacitance. Reactive power transmitted over time is measured in var-hours
(varh). See also ‘power factor’.
Real Power: See ‘Active Power’.
Real-Time: Data reported as it happens, with reporting (update) intervals no longer
than a few seconds. Real-time applies to AGC type data, but not to kWh or RMS data,
which are accumulated and reported only when queried by a master station.
Remedial Action Scheme (RAS): A protection system that automatically initiates one
or more control actions following electrical disturbances. Also referred to as ‘Special
Protection System.’ Typical examples include tripping generators or loads and
switching of series capacitors, shunt capacitors or shunt reactors.
Requester: An electrical utility or other customer or their representative that is
requesting a new connection to the BPA Grid.
Reserve:
 Operating Reserve: That reserve above firm system load capable of providing for
regulation within the hour to cover load variations and power supply reductions. It
consists of spinning reserve and non-spinning reserve.
 Spinning Reserve: Unloaded generation which is synchronized and ready to serve
additional demand. It consists of Regulating Reserve and Contingency Reserve.
 Regulating Reserve: An amount of operating reserve sufficient to reduce Area
Control Error to zero in ten minutes following loss of generating capacity, which
would result from the most severe single contingency. At least 50% of this operating
reserve shall be Spinning Reserve, which would automatically respond to frequency
deviation.
 Nonspinning Reserve: That operating reserve not connected to the system but
capable of serving demand within ten minutes, or interruptible load that can be
removed from the system within ten minutes.
Revenue Metering: General term for metering which is calibrated to ANSI Standards
for Billing Accuracy.
Revenue Metering System (RMS): Provides hourly data daily (as compared to kWh
system that reports hourly load each hour). A meter and recording device are installed
at points where billing quality data is required. The device meters kW and Kvar (bi-
directional for Points of Interconnection) and records kWh and Kvarh data on an hourly
basis. Data is retrieved over dial-up (voice grade) telephone lines by the MV-90
system located at Dittmer Control Center. The MV-90 system automatically polls the
device every morning beginning at 0001 am. The MV-90 system can also other times
to poll a remote at.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 13 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Single Pole Switching: The practice of tripping and reclosing one phase of a three
phase transmission line without tripping the remaining phases. Tripping is initiated by
protective relays that respond selectively to the faulted phase. Circuit breakers used for
single pole switching must be capable of independent phase opening. For faults
involving more than one phase, all three phases are tripped. The purpose of single pole
switching is to improve system stability by keeping two of the three transmission line
phases energized and carrying power while the fault and secondary arc are removed
from the faulted phase. See also ‘hybrid single pole switching’.
Station Service: The electric supply for the ancillary equipment used to operate a
generating station or substation. (NERC definition) Generally, main grid substations
require two sources of station service for reliability.
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA): A system of remote control
and telemetering used to monitor and control the transmission system. (NERC
definition)
Tap Line: A line that connects to an existing transmission or distribution line without
breakers at the tap point, resulting in an additional terminal on the existing line. The
connection point may or may not include disconnect switches for isolation of one or all
terminals.
Telemetering: Continuous, real time data reporting, as for AGC and generation kW
(but not for kWh or RMS systems, which are not continuously reported).
NERC Definition - The process by which measurable electrical quantities from
substations and generating stations are instantaneously transmitted using
telecommunication techniques.
Transmission: That part of the electric grid associated with bulk transfer of energy, at
high nominal voltages (generally defined as 115 kV or above). BPA owns and operates
transmission facilities at voltages of 500, 345, 287, 230, 161, 138 and 115. of BPA’s
345 kV- and 287-kV transmission is on lines that are transformer-terminated at both
ends.
Transformers and Transformer Connections: Large three-phase power transformers
can be constructed using separate windings, as autotransformers or a combination of
these. Transformers can use one tank for each phase or have all three phases in a
single tank. The external winding connections can be delta (Δ) or grounded wye (YG),
creating winding combinations such as Δ - YG, YG - YG, YG - Δ – YG.
 Autotransformer: Transformer construction using a single coil where the lower
voltage or ‘winding’ is created by simply tapping that coil at the desired voltage level,
creating a metallic connection between the two windings. This is the typical
construction used to transform voltages at transmission levels and uses a YG, three-
phase connection (e.g. 525:230 kV, 230:115kV).
 Separate windings: Transformer construction where the higher and lower voltage
windings are individual coils, only coupled by a magnetic field. This is the typical

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 14 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

construction used to transform voltages from transmission to distribution levels and

for generator step-up transformers (e.g. 115:12.5 kV, 22:230kV).
 Wye (Y) connection: Transformer connections where one end of each winding of
the three phases is connected to a common point and then typically grounded (YG),
possibly through an impedance.
 Delta (Δ) connection: Transformer connections where one end of each winding of
the three phases is connected to the next phase, creating a closed loop of windings
with no connections to a common point.
WECC: Western Electricity Coordinating Council, is the reliability region to which BPA’s
Balancing Authority Area (control area) belongs. WECC establishes and enforces
reliability standards for operating and planning the bulk electric system in the region.
On-line at www.wecc.biz

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 15 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

3. BACKGROUND
Copies of this document are available from:
BPA’s Document Request Line at (800) 622-4520 and requesting DOE/BP– 3624
Or Web: http://www.transmission.bpa.gov/business/generation_interconnection/
If you have questions or need additional information, please call:
BPA’s Public Information Center at (503) 230-7334 or (800) 622-4520
If you wish to make comments, please contact Transmission Planning or e-mail
comments to [email protected].
Revision 0 of this document superseded DOE/BP-3183 Technical Requirements for the
Connection of Transmission Lines and Loads and DOE/BP-3162 Technical
Requirements for the Interconnection of Generation Resources.

3.1 Revision History

 Revision 03 (Current Revision), 11/6/13: General updates, re-organized document
 Revision 02, 8/26/11: Added requirements for integration of typical wind-generation
facilities
 Revision 01, 3/20/2009: Updated to include latest technical standards and
requirements. Adopted as BPA Standard number STD-N-000001
 Revision 00, 6/15/2005: Original issue. Replaces and supersedes BPA documents
DOE/BP-3162 and DOE/BP-3183.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 16 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

4. REQUIRED INFORMATION FOR INTERCONNECTIONS

4.1 Introduction
Requests for generation interconnection to the BPA Grid are made via the Large
Generation Interconnection Procedure (LGIP) for greater than 20 MW facilities, or by
the Small Generation Interconnection Procedure (SGIP) for generating facilities no
larger than 20 MW. Requests for non-generation interconnections are made through
the Line and Load Interconnection Procedure (LLIP). Requests for energy storage
should be made via the SGIP or LGIP depending on the nameplate peak power
capacity. Requestors must contact a BPA Account Executive and refer to BPA
Business Practices for application forms and procedures. This section describes typical
information and data that BPA requires at various points in the life of the Interconnection
Request.
4.2 Connection Location
BPA requires the Requester to submit location information with the interconnection
request in order to adequately study the impacts. Location information required will vary
depending upon the proposal.
 Locations of new substations, generators or new taps on existing lines must include
the state, county, township, range, elevation, latitude and longitude.
 BPA requires driving directions to the location for a site evaluation.
 Identify the substation if connecting to an existing BPA substation.
 For connection to an existing BPA transmission line, identify the line by name as well
as the location of the proposed interconnection.
4.3 Electrical Data
The specific electrical data required will depend upon the type of connection requested.
BPA will provide supplemental data request forms when specific information is required
that was not included with the application or other project submittals.
4.3.1 Electrical One-Line Diagram
The electrical one-line diagram should include equipment ratings, equipment
connections, transformer configuration, generator configuration and grounding, bus,
circuit breaker and disconnect switch arrangements, etc.
4.3.2 Generator Data
If one or more generators are included as part of the connection request, the following is
typical data needed. If different types of generators are included, data for each different
type of generator and generator step up transformer is needed.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 17 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

4.3.2.1 Typical Generator data:

 Energy source (e.g., wind, natural gas, hydro, bio-mass, bio-gas, solar, geothermal,
etc.)
 Number of rotating generators
 Number of turbines and type: wind, combustion, steam, hydro, engine generator,
etc.
 Number and nameplate rating of static conversion devices (e.g. inverters for solar
photovoltaic projects)
 Total nameplate rating in MW
 Nameplate power factor
 Station service load for plant auxiliaries, kW and Kvar
 Station service connection plan (specifically, which distribution utility will provide
station service to the project when all generation is off line)
4.3.2.2 DC Sources
If the generator project includes dc sources such as fuel cells or photovoltaic devices,
provide the number of dc sources and maximum dc power production per source in kW.
Provide the nameplate output rating of each inverter in KW and power factor.
4.3.2.3 Variable Generation
The following data is generally required of each asynchronous variable Large
Generation Plant consisting of multiple generation units connected via a network
(collector) system proposed or in operation within BPA’s Balancing Area. Similar data
may be required for Small Generation consisting of multiple generation units and other
asynchronous generation. The information is required to meet the WECC/NERC
compliance requirements for Generation Owners / Generation Operators (GO/GOp).
 Proposed Wind Turbine Generator (WTG) or other variable generator manufacturer
and data sheet(s), and main transformer(s) size and impedance.
 Collector system single line diagram that includes any proposed reactive equipment.
 Plant equivalent representation as defined by WECC.
 Submit post construction “as built” updates per WECC/NERC requirements to BPA
following project commissioning. Include measured net reactive capability as
measured at the POI.
 The owner must submit periodic updates of the Wind Generation Plant to BPA as
required for WECC compliance with NERC Reliability Standards.
4.3.3 Load Information Requirements
If a new load or point of delivery is requested, the following information will generally be
required.
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 18 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

 Type of load, such as industrial, commercial, residential or combination

 Load data
o Delivery voltage, kV
o Projected peak load, kW
o Summer peak load, kW
o Winter peak load, kW
o Anticipated power factor

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 19 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

5. SYSTEM PLANNING & PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS

5.1 General Configurations
Connection of new facilities into the transmission system usually falls into one of three
categories:
 Connection to an existing 69 kV to 500 kV bulk power substation, with (depending
on the bus configuration) the existing transmission and new connecting lines each
terminated into bays containing one or more breakers.
 Connection to an existing 69 kV to 500 kV transmission line via a tap
 Connection by looping an existing 69 kV to 500kV transmission line into a new
customer or BPA owned substation.
These three categories may include the situation where another utility owns the
transmission line or equipment that directly connects to the BPA Grid.
BPA must maintain full operational control of the transmission line. This may include,
but not be limited to, SCADA control and monitoring of circuit breakers, disconnects and
other equipment in the new substation. Additionally, BPA will retain contractual path
capacity rights. New equipment installed in series with the existing transmission line
shall have continuous thermal rating not less than the transmission line rating.
A multi-terminal line is created when the new connection becomes an additional source
of real power and fault current beyond the existing sources at the line terminals. A line
with three terminals affects BPA’s ability to protect, operate, dispatch and maintain the
transmission line. BPA determines the feasibility of multi-terminal line connections on a
case-by-case basis.
If BPA allows a new customer-owned line to tap an existing BPA transmission line, the
reliability of the BPA line is decreased due to short-term and long-term outages on the
new line. BPA may require switching equipment at the tap point to provide automatic
isolation of the new line if the expected decrease in BPA line reliability is substantial.
Each situation is evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
5.2 Special Configurations
The following configurations may substantially affect the costs of a particular connection
plan.
5.2.1 Connection to Main Grid Transmission Lines and Substations
Main Grid transmission lines include all 500 kV, 345 kV and some lower voltage lines,
as defined by BPA’s Reliability Criteria and Standards. These circuits form the
backbone of the Pacific Northwest transmission system and provide the primary means
of serving large geographical areas. In general, BPA requires a substation with
additional breakers at the POI to maintain reliability and security of the main grid
system. Breaker and a half configuration is typical. See the Breaker Arrangement
Application Policy (STD-N-000003) for more on this topic.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 20 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

5.2.2 Connection to 287 kV and 345 kV Lines

BPA can operate its 287 kV and 345 kV transmission lines at either the normal voltage
or at 230 kV. Each of these lines is terminated with transformers that can be bypassed
for 230 kV operation. BPA reserves the right to operate these lines at 230 kV. If the
transformer fails at a terminal, extended 230 kV operation will be required. For
continued operation the connected facilities must also be capable of operating at 230
kV.
5.3 Generators (General Requirements)
5.3.1 Generator Operation During Emergency System Conditions
The generator, when requested by the BPA Dispatcher during emergency conditions,
will be expected to supply reactive power up to its maximum available capability, even if
reductions to generation levels are required. Dispatch for non-synchronous sources will
be examined on a case-by-case basis, depending upon the performance characteristics
of the source and its location within the BPA grid.
5.3.2 Generator Performance During System Disturbances (Swings)
Response to frequency and voltage variances during a system disturbance are defined
in Section 9. Unless otherwise allowed, the generators are to stay connected and
operational during such disturbances, up to the limits provided in Section 9. Deviation
from these requirements will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and may result in
additional reserve requirements or other system compensation.
5.3.3 Generator Low Voltage Ride Through Capability
All large generator (20 MW or greater) installations shall meet NERC and WECC
requirements for low voltage ride through (LVRT). The generator(s) shall be capable of
staying on-line for nearby faults, except for faults on the line or bus the generator is
connected to. This includes traditional thermal, hydro, wind, solar PV, and solar thermal
greater than 20 MW. Small generation installations (less than 20 MW) LVRT will be as
determined by BPA studies.
In addition to the NERC and WECC LVRT requirements, all generators must meet the
BPA under/over voltage and under/over frequency requirements for operation in the
BPA system listed in this document, unless BPA Planning has determined otherwise.
Section 9.1.4.3.1 prescribes the voltage with time delays requirements for generators.
Frequency requirements are listed in Table 4 in section 9.1.4.3.2.
5.3.4 Reactive Power Requirements
All large generator installations are required to provide reactive power for voltage
support of the transmission system. Both Primary and Secondary reactive power may
be required. From the standpoint of voltage stability, it is necessary to distinguish
between Primary and Secondary voltage control.
Primary voltage control acts upon fast-acting continuously controllable (dynamic)
reactive power devices to provide automatic voltage response to system voltage
changes, including generation output changes, grid disturbances to stabilize the power
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 21 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

system; and to smooth shunt reactive switching steps. Continuously controllable, fast-
acting reactive power devices include synchronous generator excitation systems,
generators with electronically controlled output and electronically controlled reactive
power devices. The Primary response typical time frame is from several cycles (after
fault interruption) to a second, similar to synchronous generators with modern excitation
systems.
Secondary voltage control is slower acting to maintain a voltage schedule during normal
system operation, to aid system recovery after a disturbance, and to maximize the
availability of the generator installation’s fast acting, continuously controllable reactive
power devices for Primary voltage control. The Secondary response typical time frame
is several seconds to a minute. Secondary reactive power is often provided by
mechanically-switched shunt capacitors and reactors. Secondary voltage control is
usually implemented in a programmable logic controller as part of the generation
installation’s control system.
All large generator installations shall be designed to provide dynamic reactive power at
rated power output at the Point of Interconnection. The requirement is over the range of
0.95 leading to 0.95 lagging power factor (FERC requirement for synchronous
generation) or as determined by BPA studies.
BPA studies may allow the Large generator installation to provide the Primary reactive
power as a combination of low side bus fast-acting, continuously controllable reactive
power capability (e.g. synchronous generators, generators with electronically controlled
output or static var devices) and switched reactive equipment connected to the low side
bus or at the POI. Switched reactive power equipment shall be sized to compensate for
reactive power losses and injection between the generator installation and the POI and
to meet the total reactive power requirement at the POI as determined by BPA studies.
The compensation shall consider the effects of low voltage generator (collector) system
reactive losses, step-up transformer reactance, transmission line reactive losses,
voltage taps/turns ratios, and bus-fed auxiliary load. The compensation shall also
consider the effects of reactive power injection due to low voltage generator (collector)
systems and transmission lines at low generation levels when connected to the BPA
system.
Additional reactive capability may be required, as determined by BPA technical studies.
Large generation will be required to provide data on reactive capability. See section
12.2.2.3 for Dispatch and Data Requirements and Table 7.
5.3.5 Asynchronous Generators
Asynchronous generation includes wind, solar and other generation resources that rely
on induction generators or inverters to provide power to the transmission system.
5.3.5.1 Asynchronous Squirrel Cage Induction Generators (Type 1) or Wound
Rotor Induction Generators (Type 2)
Large asynchronous generators with only switched capacitors for PF correction shall
provide reactive power compensation via supplementary external equipment as
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 22 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

specified in the BPA system planning studies. For Type 1 and 2 wind generators, the
dynamic reactive power is supplied by a separate fast-acting, continuously controllable
reactive power device (STATCOM typically) providing compensation in response to the
power plant voltage controller, while the individual generators operate in constant power
factor mode. The dynamic reactive power device is typically connected to the power
plant collector bus.

BPA Voltage
Reference
Wind Power
Raise / Lower
Plant Voltage
Controller
LDC
V
Q
W

Switched Shunt
Capacitors

SVC, DVAR
STATCOM WTG Power-factor
Correction capacitors

Figure 1..---Example of Type1, 2 wind turbine reactive power control with fast
acting, continuously controllable plant-level reactive compensation (SVC,
STATCOM, DVAR, etc). Switched shunts are used to meet the BPA reactive
requirements at the POI.
Additional switched reactive power devices required to meet the total reactive power
requirement at the POI shall be controlled by the power plant voltage controller. The
voltage controller is to switch shunt devices to optimize available dynamic reactive
reserves at the POI. The required dynamic reactive power device supports the
transmission system during disturbances and can be used to smooth shunt reactive
switching steps.
5.3.5.2 Asynchronous Double-fed Wound Rotor Induction Generators (Type 3)
and Generators with Solid-State Inverters (Type 4)
For Type 3 and 4 wind generation (may include solid state Inverter type generation such
as solar PV), the continuous dynamic response reactive power is provided by each
generator or the solid state equipment at each generator per BPA system planning
studies. The generation facility has a voltage controller that dispatches reactive power

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 23 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

output from each generating unit (Type 3 or 4) and controls switched shunt reactive
devices.

BPA Voltage
Reference
Wind Power
Raise / Lower
Plant Voltage
Controller
LDC
V
Q
W

Switched shunt capacitors to

extend reactive capability

Figure 2.---Example of Type 3, 4 wind turbines providing Primary generator

reactive power. Voltage controller switches shunt devices to maximize available
dynamic reactive reserves at the POI. Switched shunts are used to meet the BPA
reactive requirements at the POI.
(Note: The generators must be capable of reactive power output for the BPA system in
response to the plant voltage controller demands, i.e. there are no patent or other
issues preventing such control to qualify as the dynamic reactive source).
The generation facility provides the Primary reactive power to maintain voltage of the
transmission system and can be used to smooth shunt reactive switching steps.
Additional switched reactive power required to meet the total reactive power
requirement at the POI shall be controlled by the power plant voltage controller. The
voltage controller is to switch shunt devices to optimize available dynamic reactive
reserves at the POI.
5.3.5.3 Mitigating Voltage Impacts to the Transmission System
This issue is applicable to all types of power generators, but particularly acute for
variable generation resources. If a power plant is connected to a weak transmission
system, the power output fluctuations may cause excessive voltage change for
transmission customers in the area due to fluctuations in transmission line power flows.
Figure 3 illustrates the issue. The voltage change at V2 may cause excessive operation
of customer load tap changers and voltage regulators. The generator voltage control
system shall be coordinated to minimize operation of customer load regulation
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 24 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

equipment including voltage regulators and tap changers. This may typically require the
control system to adjust reactive compensation in less than 20 seconds and the reactive
step size such that switching action does not cause voltage change outside regulator’s
voltage band.
Perceptible flicker may also result from the change in voltage at the terminal of the
generation project for changes in generation output and / or as the power output
changes the line loading voltage. As the power plant output fluctuates, so does the
customer POI voltage, even if the voltage at plant POI is held constant.
When the need is identified by BPA studies or from operational experience, the project
will be required to provide dynamic controllable reactive compensation such as static
VAR compensators (SVC).

V2 V1

P
Additional reactive
support is needed
V3
G

V
V1
V3

V2

Figure 3.---Voltage Impact on line connected load for Variable Generation

5.3.5.4 Other Asynchronous Generation
Large generation (>20 MW aggregate nameplate including solar PV and solar thermal)
from other resources shall be required to provide reactive power compensation as
specified in the BPA system planning studies. The reactive power will either be
supplied by the solid-state inverter used for energy conversion or from a separate fast-
acting, continuously controllable reactive power device (STATCOM typically) providing
compensation in response to a voltage controller. The separate reactive power device
is typically connected to the power plant collector bus. The required Primary reactive
power device supports the transmission system during disturbances and can be used to
smooth shunt reactive switching steps.
For applications where continuous dynamic reactive power is not required, voltages at
the POI shall not vary more than 0.5% per capacitor switching operation during normal

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 25 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

transmission system conditions; and shall not deviate more than 1% due to changes in
generation output caused by rapid fluctuations in the prime mover output.
5.3.6 Synchronous Generators
5.3.6.1 Voltage Control
Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR) is required for an individual generator with
nameplate rating 20 MVA or above, and on each generator regardless of size in a group
installation where the aggregate nameplate rating is 75 MVA or above.
Power System Stabilization (PSS) is required on each individual generator with
nameplate rating 20 MVA or above.
Regardless of whether the GO/GOp registers, if the above criteria apply, BPA will
require that the generation facility is equipped and operated in a manner that supports
BPA’s compliance with mandatory reliability standards. Therefore, the requirement for
AVR and PSS will apply at the same MVA ratings listed above if the individual
generating unit or generating plant/facility is covered by the NERC Statement of
Compliance Registry Criteria.
The Interconnection Customer shall equip each generator with Automatic Voltage
Regulation (AVR). Interconnection Customer shall operate AVR in voltage control
mode at all times when the generator is synchronized to the transmission system.
The Interconnection Customer shall include a Power System Stabilizer (PSS) feature in
the generator AVR. The PSS shall be dual input integral of accelerating power type
(IEEE type PSS2A). Minimum PSS performance requirements shall be as described in
the Western Electric Coordinating Council’s “WECC PSS Design and Performance
Criteria”. Interconnection Customer shall maintain the PSS in service at all times when
the generator is synchronized to the transmission system.
All large generators shall operate on voltage control or as determined by BPA studies.
Power factor control is not allowed except as determined by BPA. The power plant
voltage controller must coordinate the mechanically switched shunts and dynamic
reactive resources to optimize the Primary (dynamic) response for support of the
transmission system during disturbances. The voltage controller shall coordinate the
mechanically switched shunts and dynamic reactive resources to provide smooth shunt
reactive switching steps. The preferred voltage control point for Primary voltage control
is the power plant generator bus (or collector bus for wind and other multi-generator
systems) with line drop compensation looking approximately two-thirds forward through
the substation step-up transformer impedance. The power plant voltage controller shall
be capable of receiving BPA voltage reference raise and lower signals. When the
voltage at the control point is above the scheduled voltage, the plant is expected to
consume reactive power (inductive operation). When the voltage at the control point is
below the scheduled voltage, the plant is expected to supply reactive power (capacitive
operation).
For applications where no dynamic devices are required, the automatic voltage control
system shall be sufficiently fast to react to the maximum change in generation
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 26 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

anticipated without invoking the operation of system voltage control devices such as
shunt capacitors and tap changers. Further, the control system shall be coordinated to
minimize operation of customer load regulation equipment including voltage regulators
and tap changers. This typically requires the control system to adjust switched reactive
compensation in less than 20 seconds. For switched reactive equipment supporting
generation reactive power requirements, voltages at the POI shall not vary more than
0.5% per switching operation; and POI voltage shall not deviate more than 1% due to
changes in generation output caused by rapid fluctuations in the prime mover speed.
When the need is identified by BPA studies, the requester will be required to provide
dynamic controllable compensation such as static VAR compensators (SVC).
5.3.6.2 Excitation Equipment
Synchronous generator excitation equipment shall follow industry best practice and
applicable industry standards. The excitation equipment includes the exciter, automatic
voltage regulator, power system stabilizer and over-excitation limiter. Supplementary
controls are required to meet BPA transmission voltage schedules.
All synchronous generators shall be operated with their excitation system in the
automatic voltage control mode unless approved otherwise by the transmission system
operator. The intent and BPA requirement is that continuous automatic voltage control
not be overridden by supplementary power factor or reactive power controls that are
either part of the automatic voltage regulator or the power plant distributed control
system.
Generators shall maintain a network voltage or reactive power output as required by
BPA within the reactive capability of the units. Generator step-up and auxiliary
transformers shall have their tap settings coordinated with the electric system voltage
requirements.
Voltage regulator controls and limit functions (such as over and under excitation and
volts/hertz limiters) shall coordinate with the generator’s short duration capabilities and
protective relays.
The synchronous generator exciter is normally of the brushless rotating type or the
static thyristor type. The excitation system nominal response shall be 2.0 or higher (for
definitions see IEEE Standard 421). The excitation system nominal response defines
combined response time and ceiling voltage. In some cases, the high initial response
static type may be required to economically improve power system dynamic
performance and transfer capability.
Automatic voltage regulators (AVRs) should be of continuously acting solid-state analog
or digital design. Generator voltage regulators to the extent practical should be tuned
for fast response to step changes in terminal voltage or voltage reference. It is
preferable to run the step change in voltage tests with the generator not connected to
the system so as to eliminate the system effects on the generator voltage. Terminal
voltage overshoot should generally not exceed 10% for an open circuit step change in
voltage test. Tuning results should be included in commissioning test reports provided
to BPA.
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 27 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

WECC requires that generating unit voltage regulators on generating units where rated
output exceeds certain thresholds, individually or in aggregate, be equipped with a
power system stabilizer (PSS). The PSS should be tuned in accordance with WECC
guidelines and other industry practices. The ‘integral of accelerating power’ type of PSS
is preferred. Its input can be a speed-related signal derived from terminal voltage and
current measurements used in the basic AVR. The PSS can be implemented as a
software module within the AVR. BPA recommends that the PSS be included in the
procurement specifications as an integral part of the voltage regulator and that AVR and
PSS tuning and commissioning be performed.
The voltage regulator shall include an over-excitation limiter. The over-excitation limiter
shall be of the ‘inverse-time’ type, adjusted to coordinate with the generator field circuit
time-overcurrent capability. Automatic voltage regulation shall be restored automatically
when system conditions allow field current below the continuous rating. BPA may
request connection of the voltage regulator line drop compensation circuit to regulate a
virtual location 50–80% through the step-up transformer reactance.
The supplementary automatic control is required to adjust the AVR set point to meet the
BPA network side voltage schedule. This supplementary control should operate in a
10–30 second time frame, and may also balance reactive power output of the power
plant generators.
5.3.6.3 Governors
To comply with the upcoming NERC BAL-003-1 Reliability Standards, BPA will need to
acquire frequency response from generators within its Balancing Authority. BPA,
therefore, requires that all generators have capabilities to provide frequency response,
specifically:
 Prime mover control (governors) shall operate with appropriate speed/load
characteristics to regulate frequency
 Prime mover control (governors) should operate freely to regulate frequency.
Governor droop should generally be set at 5% and total governor dead band
(intentional plus unintentional) should generally not exceed ±0.06%. These
characteristics should in most cases ensure a coordinated and balanced response to
grid frequency disturbances. Prime movers operated with valves or gates wide open
should control for overspeed/overfrequency.
 Load controllers, when used, must have a frequency bias setting
BPA realizes that some generating facilities will operate at maximum turbine output
unless providing frequency control and spinning reserve ancillary services. BPA
interprets G6 to require governor controls to be set for ‘droop control mode’.
5.3.7 Generator Performance Testing, Monitoring and Validation
Each generator owner is responsible to provide a dynamic model of its generating plant
to BPA. The model will characterize plant responses to system disturbances (voltage
and frequency deviations at point of interconnection, oscillations) and control signals
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 28 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

(power and voltage schedule). The dynamic model will be a part of the power system
model used in system studies to determine operating transfer limits and network
reinforcements. An incorrect model may result in incorrect transfer limits, which can
either put the system at risk of failure or unnecessarily restrict transmission use.
5.3.7.1 Parametric Testing
Parametric testing is a detailed test performed on a generator to determine parameters
of a synchronous machine and its controls, as defined in the WECC test guidelines.
Parametric testing shall be done for the following equipment:
 Synchronous machines
 Exciter and Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR)
 Turbine – governor
 Power System Stabilizer (PSS)
 Over-Excitation Limiter (OEL)
Typical data cannot be substituted for actual parametric test data when required by
NERC or WECC standards. Testing is required:
 On a new generator during commissioning.
 When the generator or turbine is retrofitted.
 When the generator controls are replaced or retuned.
When a severe discrepancy is observed in performance validation.
5.3.7.2 Performance Validation
Performance validation of the generator model is done using measurements recorded
during actual disturbances and tests. Recorded generator voltage and frequency are
input into the model to verify that simulated real and reactive power responses are in
good agreement with the recorded responses. Generator owners shall submit an
Evidence of Performance Validation every five years. Performance validation shall
include:
 Responses to at least three frequency excursions greater than 0.1 Hz (alternatively
1% speed or 20% power reference steps);
 Responses to at least three voltage changes greater than 2% (alternatively 2%
voltage reference steps).
5.3.7.3 Performance Monitoring
BPA will monitor performance of a generating plant as described in Section 6.5
5.3.8 Blackstart Capability
Blackstart is the term describing the startup of a generating plant under local power,
isolated from the power system. Blackstart capability is needed in some rare

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 29 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

circumstances, depending on the size and location of the generation facility. It is

generally not needed for small generators or for projects that are near other major
generation. This capability is addressed in the planning and review process, and
indicated on the Project Requirements Diagram. Loads that are scheduled and
available for blackstart are selected to avoid tripping generation units by exceeding
frequency and voltage set points. Selecting voltage variable loads, avoiding motor start-
up loads, and imposing block size limits of (50 MW or less) can accomplish this. During
blackstart restoration, the tapped connection must be able to be opened to avoid
interference with BPA restoration procedures on the BPA transmission path.
Considerations related to blackstart capability include the following:
 Proximity to other major generation facilities (i.e. Can startup power be provided
more efficiently from an existing plant?)
 Location on the transmission system (i.e. Is the generation facility near major load
centers and far from generation?)
 Cost of on-site start-up
 Periodic testing to ensure personnel training and capabilit
5.4 System Stability and Reliability
The BPA Grid has been developed with careful consideration for system stability and
reliability during disturbances. The type of connection, size of the source or load,
breaker configurations, source or load characteristics, and the ability to set protective
relays will affect where and how the connection is made. For most generators and
some loads, the Requester will also be required to participate in special protection or
Remedial Action Schemes (RAS) including automatic tripping of generation or load.
Section 9.1.5 provides additional information and requirements for RAS schemes.
5.4.1 Key Reliability and Availability Considerations
 The new connection shall meet all applicable NWPP, NERC and WECC operating
and reliability criteria requirements. When in conflict, the more restrictive
requirement shall apply.
 Tools and spare equipment must be readily available to accomplish operations and
maintenance tasks.
 Bypass equipment must be fully rated to allow continued operation without creating
a bottleneck. Alternate feeds, when provided, shall have sufficient rating to not
restrict operation of the BPA Grid.
 Shielding and electromagnetic interference (EMI) protection shall be provided to
insure personnel safety and proper equipment functioning during disturbances such
as faults and transients.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 30 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

 Standardized design, planning, operating practices and procedures should be used

so the new connection may be readily incorporated into the existing transmission
network.
 For reliable operation, the telecommunications, control and protection equipment
must be redundant to the extent described in Sections 9 and 10.
 The equipment for the new connection shall have sufficient capabilities for both the
initial operation and for long-range plans.
 Operations and maintenance personnel must be properly trained for both normal
and emergency conditions
5.4.2 Atmospheric and Seismic
The effects of windstorms, floods, lightning, elevation, temperature extremes, icing,
contamination and earthquakes must be considered in the design and operation of the
connected facilities. The Requester is responsible to determine that the appropriate
standards, codes, criteria, recommended practices, guides and prudent utility practices
are met for equipment it furnishes and installs.
5.4.3 Physical Security
The potential vulnerability of the facility to sabotage or terrorist threat must be factored
into the design and operating procedures. The Requester is responsible to determine
that the appropriate standards, codes, criteria, recommended practices, guides and
prudent utility practices are met for its installation.
5.4.4 Transmission and Substation Facilities
Some new connections to the BPA Grid require that one or more BPA lines (a
transmission path) be looped through the Requester’s facilities, or sectionalized with the
addition of switches. The design and ratings of these facilities shall not restrict the
capability of the line(s) and BPA’s contractual transmission path rights. Customer
owned transmission lines that interconnect with BPA facilities shall meet the
requirements specified herein at the POI and where specified to maintain worker safety
and electrical protective margins.
5.4.5 Insulation Coordination
Power system equipment is designed to withstand voltage stresses associated with
expected operation. Adding or connecting new facilities can change equipment duty,
and may require that equipment be replaced or switchgear, telecommunications,
shielding, grounding and/or surge protection be added to control voltage stress to
acceptable levels. Interconnection studies include the evaluation of the impact on
equipment insulation coordination. BPA may identify additional requirements to
maintain an acceptable level of BPA Grid availability, reliability, equipment insulation
margins and safety. Voltage stresses, such as lightning or switching surges, and
temporary overvoltages may affect equipment duty. Remedies depend on the
equipment capability and the type and magnitude of the stress. In general, stations with
equipment operated at 15 kV and above, as well as all transformers and reactors, shall
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 31 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

be protected against lightning and switching surges. Typically this includes station
shielding against direct lightning strokes, surge arresters on all line terminals,
transformers, reactors, and station entrance shielding with OHGW as specified in
Section 5 on the incoming lines.
5.4.6 Temporary Overvoltages
Temporary overvoltages can last from seconds to minutes, and are not characterized as
surges. Although BPA follows NESC operating procedures such that voltage control
practices do not normally cause temporary overvoltage, temporary overvoltages may be
present during islanding, faults, loss of load, or long-line situations. All new and existing
equipment must be capable of withstanding temporary overvoltage.
5.4.7 Ancillary Services
All new connections to the BPA Grid require an interconnection agreement. The
interconnection agreement does not imply or guarantee transmission service or ancillary
services.
All loads and transmission facilities must be part of a balancing authority area. The
balancing authority area provides critical ancillary services, including load regulation,
and frequency response, operating reserves, voltage control from generating resources,
scheduling, system controls and dispatching service, as defined by FERC, or their
successors. A transmission contract is optional. The Requester must choose the
balancing authority area in which the new facilities will be located and the source or
provider of ancillary services. This election should be identified in the ancillary service
exhibit of the transmission contract.
Of particular importance is the Requester’s selection of the source for regulating and
contingency reserves, if needed. BPA will then determine the telemetering, controls,
and metering that will be required to integrate the load or facility into the chosen
balancing authority area and to provide the necessary ancillary services. If the
Requester chooses a self-provision or a third party provision of reserves, then special
certification and deployment procedures must be incorporated into the BPA automatic
generation control, (AGC) system. The provision of the required ancillary services must
meet all relevant NERC, WECC and NWPP reliability policies and criteria.
The generator is required to operate in automatic voltage control mode, regulating the
voltage to a BPA provided schedule. Typically the generator should supply reactive
power for its station service loads and reactive power losses up to the POI. Generator
projects may be requested to supply reactive power as an ancillary service.
Normally, the generator will operate its governor to respond independently for frequency
deviations. If the governor is controlled through the plant central controller, the
governor shall be in ‘droop control’ mode. Droop setting and performance shall comply
with NERC and WECC reliability standards.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 32 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

5.4.8 Power Quality

Power quality is the responsibility of both the end users (loads and generation)
connected to a utility system and the utilities providing distribution and transmission.
Since this document focuses on the interconnection of loads and generation to the BPA
Grid, this section will deal primarily with power quality problems typically introduced by
the end user or Requester as termed in this document. The Requester is expected to
address, in the design of their facilities, potential sources and mitigation of power quality
degradation prior to interconnection. Design considerations should include applicable
standards including, but not limited to IEEE Standards 142, 519, 1100 1159, 1547, and
ANSI C84.1.
In general, the Requester has the responsibility not to degrade the voltage of the utility
(BPA) serving other users by requiring nonlinear currents from the system. The
Requester also has certain responsibilities to account for transmission system events
such as switching transients and fault-induced voltage sags. Standards exist for
manufacturers and system designers to take into account short duration system events
in order to design equipment or systems with sensitivities capable of riding through
events that are within utility system operating standards. If it is determined that the new
connection facility is causing a power quality problem, then the Requester will be held
responsible for installation of the necessary equipment or operational measures to
mitigate the problem. Typical forms of power quality degradation include, but are not
limited to voltage regulation/unbalance, harmonic distortion, flicker, voltage
sags/interruptions, and transients. Some of the more common forms of degradation are
discussed below.
5.4.8.1 Voltage Fluctuations and Flicker
Voltage fluctuations may be noticeable as visual lighting variations (flicker) and can
damage or disrupt the operation of electronic equipment. IEEE Standard 519 and IEC
61000-3 provides definitions and limits on acceptable levels of voltage fluctuation.
Loads or system connections to the BPA Grid shall comply with the limits in these
standards.
5.4.8.2 Harmonic Distortion
Nonlinear devices such as adjustable or variable speed drives (ASD/VSD), power
converters, arc furnaces, and saturated transformers can generate harmonic voltages
and currents on the transmission system. These harmonics can cause
telecommunication interference, increase thermal heating in transformers and reactors,
disable or cause misoperations of solid-state equipment and create resonant
overvoltages. In order to protect power system equipment from damage or
misoperations, harmonics must be managed and mitigated. The new connection shall
not introduce harmonics into the BPA Grid in excess of the limits specified in IEEE
Standard 519.
In addition to loads with nonlinear devices, new generation resources or distributed
resources should be evaluated not only for possible injected harmonics, but also for
potential resonant conditions. For example, some generation resources, whether due to
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 33 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

power factor correction capacitors or cable capacitances, may be capacitive during

certain operating configurations. These types of configurations may result in resonant
conditions within the project or in combination with the utility system. The short circuit
ratio (SCR) tests as listed in IEEE 1547 and IEEE 519 can be good indicators of this
potential problem. If the evaluation of the new connection indicates potential harmonic
resonance the requester may be required to filter, detune, or mitigate in some way the
potential resonant conditions associated with connection of the new resource.
For individual end users, the IEEE 519 Standard limits the level of harmonic currents
injected at the POI (listed in IEEE literature as the Point of Common Coupling (PCC))
between the end user and the utility. Recommended limits are provided for individual
harmonic components and for the total demand distortion. These limits are expressed
as a percentage of the customer’s demand current level, rather than as a percentage of
the fundamental, in order to provide a basis for evaluation over time. There are also
limits for voltage distortion for both individual frequency and total harmonic distortion.
5.4.8.3 Phase Unbalance
Unbalanced phase voltages and currents can affect coordination of protective relaying,
create higher flows of current in neutral conductors, and cause thermal overloading of
transformers and motors. The measurement of voltage unbalance, Negative Sequence
Unbalance Factor (NSUF) is the ratio of the negative sequence voltage divided by the
positive sequence voltage, expressed as a percentage. The NSUF limits listed herein
applies to normal system operations. For connections at 230 kV and above, the voltage
unbalance should not exceed 1%. For connections below 230 kV, the contribution at
the POI from a single interconnection should not be allowed to cause a voltage
unbalance greater than 1.3%. The voltage unbalance limit is 2% at Points of Common
Coupling for the aggregate effect of multiple loads.
System problems such as a blown transformer fuse or open conductor on a
transmission system can result in extended periods of phase unbalance. It is the
Requester’s responsibility to protect all of its connected equipment from damage that
could result from such an unbalanced condition.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 34 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

6. GENERAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

6.1 Minimizing Disturbances
The new facilities shall be designed, constructed, operated, and maintained in
conformance with this document, applicable laws and regulations, and standards to
minimize the impact of the following:
 Electric disturbances that produce abnormal power flows
 Power system faults or equipment failures
 Overvoltages during ground faults
 Audible noise, radio, television, and telephone interference
 Power system harmonics
 Other disturbances that might degrade the reliability of the interconnected BPA Grid
6.2 Existing Equipment
The proposed new connection may cause existing equipment such as transformers,
power circuit breakers, disconnect switches, arresters, and transmission lines to exceed
their ratings. New connections may require equipment replacement or an alternate plan
of service.
6.3 Safety and Isolating Devices
A disconnect switch is required at any interconnection to the BPA Grid to provide
physical and visible isolation of the BPA Grid from the connected facilities. The isolation
device may be placed in a location other than the Point of Interconnection (POI), by
agreement of BPA and affected parties. Safety and operating procedures for the
isolating device shall be in compliance with the BPA Accident Prevention Manual (APM)
and the Requester’s and interconnecting utility’s safety manuals. All switchgear that
could energize equipment shall be visibly identified, so that all maintenance crews can
be made aware of the potential hazards. Isolating devices on lines or in substations
that may be used for electrical clearance boundaries or maintenance purposes shall
meet the “visible air gap” requirement in the BPA APM. The following requirements
apply for all isolating devices:
 Must simultaneously open all three phases (gang operated) to the connected
facilities.
 Must be accessible by BPA.
 Must be lockable in the open position by BPA.
 Will not be operated without advance notice to affected parties, unless an
emergency condition requires that the device be opened to isolate the connected
facilities.
 Must be suitable for safe operation under all foreseeable operating conditions.
All work practices involving BPA owned, maintained, and/or operated equipment, must
be done in accordance with the principles contained in the BPA Accident Prevention
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 35 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Manual, the BPA Work Standards, and done at the direction of BPA Dispatchers. BPA
personnel may lock the isolating device in the open position and install safety grounds:
 For the protection of maintenance personnel when working on de-energized circuits.
 If the connected facilities or BPA equipment presents a hazardous condition.
 If the connected facilities jeopardize the operation of the BPA Grid.
6.4 Configuration for Sectionalizing and Maintenance
The configuration of interconnected facilities shall provide sufficient flexibility to allow
taking each transmission line or line section, and each circuit breaker and other key
equipment out of service, for both operation and maintenance purposes.
6.5 Synchro-phasers (Phasor Measuring Units)
BPA monitors the response to system events by generation projects connected to the
BPA grid by measuring bus voltage and frequency, and generation current and power.
Performance monitoring is required to fully validate performance and verify the model
provided under Section 5.3.8. BPA will collect disturbance data and will perform
performance validation. If BPA observes a severe discrepancy between Requester-
provided data and monitored results, the generation project owner shall be required to
perform parametric testing of the generation equipment.
BPA uses a Phasor Measuring Unit (PMU) to monitor generator performance. A PMU
provides digital high-speed time-synchronized voltage and current phasors and
frequency measurements. BPA requires PMU functionality at all generation projects
that are directly connected to the BPA grid at voltages 230-kV and above, and at some
lower voltage interconnections when identified during the interconnection studies. The
PMU will be installed at the project substation (typically a collector station if a wind
generation project) and will measure quantities at either the low side or high side of
each substation step-up transformer (e.g. 34.5/230 kV).
BPA will install the PMU and the required communication circuits/equipment at the
project substation to transport the information to the Control Center. After a system
event, BPA will download data from the PMU. Depending on the Point of
Interconnection to the BPA grid, and as identified during the interconnection studies,
BPA may also require a continuous data stream to a BPA Phasor Data Concentrator
(PDC) located at the BPA Point of Interconnection via the installed communications
network at the project substation. The PMU must be tested after configuration (but prior
to installation) for compliance with IEEE C37.118 standard and WECC filtering and
dynamic performance requirements. A typical PMU installation is shown in Figure 4
below.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 36 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

BPA PDC

3-phase Voltage
230-kV
PMU
60 messages/sec 3-phase Current
IEEE C37.118

G G

Figure 4.--- Typical Phasor Measurement Unit (PMU) Installation

6.6 STATCOM Type Controllable Reactive Power Devices
Dynamic reactive devices such as a STATCOM typically have an overload capability of
200% or more for 2 seconds. BPA studies have found that this overload capability can
be used to reduce the size of the continuous rating in combination with switched
capacitors. STATCOM devices inherently include capacitor control as part of the total
reactive power system. As allowed by BPA studies, the total reactive power dynamic
requirement can be provided as a combination of 50% fast-acting continuous
STATCOM rating (with a minimum of 200% overload capability for 2 seconds) and 50%
switched shunt capacitors to provide the continuous reactive power requirement.
Voltage control shall include line droop to provide fast response for major system events
while desensitizing for small changes in voltage. Intentional deadband or additional
time delays in the voltage control are not permitted without concurrence by BPA.
All additional switched reactive power required to meet the total reactive power
requirement at the POI shall be controlled by the STATCOM voltage controller. The
controller will be the interface for BPA dispatch of Primary and Secondary reactive
power control functions.
6.7 Higher Speed Switching of Low Voltage Shunt Capacitors
Shunt Capacitors are used to provide reactive support for asynchronous generation
facilities. They typically have a re-insertion delay (close-open-close) to allow for
discharge of trapped charges. The time to discharge can be several minutes. Magnetic
(wire-wound) potential transformers added to each capacitor section on the high voltage
terminals can reduce the time to reinsert to only a few seconds. Planning studies will
specify when this is a requirement for the power plant for system reliability. This may be
especially useful for sub-grid applications that do not require dynamic equipment.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 37 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

7. SUBSTATION FACILITY / HIGH VOLTAGE EQUIPMENT DESIGN

7.1 BPA Substation Requirements
BPA owned or maintained substations shall be designed to meet all applicable reliability
criteria and the BPA Design Standards, and shall meet the requirements of the BPA
Accident Prevention Manual. Among these requirements are the following:
 The requirements of the NESC C2 and OSHA shall be met.
 Substations shall be designed to meet BPA’s minimum approach distances as
specified in the APM and “Preferred” spacing for phase to phase and phase to
ground distances consistent with BPA Substation Design Standards.
 Substation line terminals shall include OHGW as defined in Section 5.
 All substation layouts and expansions will provide adequate space and distance to
property lines to meet BPA requirements for noise control per BPA Noise Policy.
 Substations shall include direct stroke lightning shielding consistent with BPA
Substation Design Standards.
 All substation line terminals shall incorporate surge protection on the line side with
metal oxide varistors (MOV) and will be coordinated with the existing substation and
equipment insulation levels. This includes all lines or cables below 69kV (those not
required to have OHGW) entering a BPA substation and connecting directly to BPA
substation equipment such as station service transformers or BPA owned
switchgear.
7.2 Customer Built Substations and Facilities
When BPA allows a customer-built substation to interrupt or tap an existing BPA
transmission line, the facility shall be designed to meet BPA Design Standards and all
applicable reliability criteria and shall meet the requirements of the BPA Accident
Prevention Manual. A summary of these requirements follows:
 The facility must be designed to applicable requirements of the NESC C2, NEC,
ANSI and IEEE Standards.
 The site selection must consider environmental aspects, including noise control, oil
containment, and fire suppression.
 Grounding must be in accordance with BPA Substation Design standards and
applicable IEEE Standards.
 For substations that interrupt a BPA transmission line, two independent sources of
station service are required.
 Electrical equipment in the substation must be sized to carry the full current rating of
the interrupted transmission path. This includes all conductors in the substation,
transformers, circuit breakers, disconnect switches, current transformers and all the
ancillary equipment that will serve as the continuation of the path during any
switching configuration.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 38 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

7.3 Switchgear
7.3.1 General Requirements
Circuit breakers, disconnect switches, and similar equipment connected to BPA’s
transmission facilities shall be capable of carrying both normal and emergency rating
load currents, and must also withstand available fault currents without damage. This
equipment shall not become a limiting factor, or bottleneck, in the ability to transfer
power on the BPA Grid. During prolonged steady-state operation, all such equipment
shall be capable of carrying the maximum continuous current that the interconnected
facility can reasonably deliver.
All circuit breakers and other fault-interrupting devices shall be capable of safely
interrupting fault currents for any fault that they may be required to interrupt. Application
shall be in accordance with ANSI/IEEE C37 Standards. These requirements apply to
the equipment at the POI as well as other locations on the BPA Grid. BPA supplies the
fault-interrupting requirements.
The connection of a transmission line or load can coincidentally include other
generating resources. When this system configuration is connected to the low-voltage
side of a -YG transformer, the high-voltage side may become ungrounded when
remote end breakers open, resulting in high phase-to-ground voltages. This neutral
shift phenomenon is described in Section 7.4.3. Switchgear on the high side of a -YG
transformer that interrupt faults or load must be capable of withstanding increased
recovery voltages.
Circuit breakers shall be capable of performing other duties as required for specific
applications. These duties may include capacitive or inductive current switching, and
out-of-step switching. Circuit breakers shall perform all required duties without creating
transient overvoltages that could damage BPA equipment.
Generally, circuit breakers for transmission lines are required to provide automatic high-
speed reclosing, with reclose times ranging from 1/3 of a second to two seconds (20 to
120 cycles). Circuit breakers for 500 kV lines will also typically be required to perform
single-pole switching. 500 kV breakers without resistors on transmission lines will use
staggered three-pole closing, in which each phase is closed about one cycle (16 ms)
apart.
7.3.2 Circuit Breaker Operating Times
Table 1 specifies the interrupting times typically required of circuit breakers on the BPA
Grid. These times will generally apply to equipment at or near the POI. System stability
considerations may require faster opening times than those listed. Breaker close times
are typically three to eight cycles. Circuit breaker interrupting time may vary from those
in Table 1 but must coordinate with other circuit breakers and protective devices.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 39 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Table 1.— Typical Circuit Breaker Interrupting Times

Voltage Class (kV L-L rms) Rated Interrupting Time (Cycles)

Below 100 kV ≤8

100 kV to 138 kV ≤5

161 kV to 230 kV ≤3

287 kV to 345 kV ≤2

500 kV ≤2

7.3.3 Other Fault-Interrupting Devices

Depending on the application, the use of other fault-interrupting devices such as circuit
switchers may be allowed. Fuses may be adequate for protecting the high-voltage delta
side of a -YG transformer. Trip times of these devices are generally slower, and
current-interrupting capabilities are often lower, than those of circuit breakers. These
devices must have been tested for the duty in which they are to be applied and they
must coordinate with other protective devices operating times. Use of transformer fuses
may result in ‘single phasing’ of low-side connected loads.
7.3.4 Transformers, Shunt Reactance and Phase Shifters
Transformer tap settings (including those available for under load and no load tap
changers), reactive control set points of shunt reactive equipment, and phase shift
angles for phase shifters must be coordinated with BPA to optimize both reactive flows
and voltage profiles. Automatic controls may be necessary to maintain these profiles on
the interconnected system. Timed changes should be coordinated with time schedules
established by the NWPP.
Transformer reactance and tap settings for generator transformers should also be
coordinated with BPA to optimize the reactive power capability (lagging and leading)
that can be provided to the network. Refer to IEEE Standard, C57.116, Guide for
Transformers Directly Connected to Generators. The continuous reactive-power
capability of the generator shall not be restricted by main or auxiliary equipment, control
and protection, or operating procedures.
7.4 Transformer Considerations
7.4.1 New Installations
The BPA transmission system typically uses autotransformers to change transmission-
level voltages (e.g. 500-230 kV, 230-115 kV), where the voltages on each side are in
phase. Some 69 kV and most lower-voltage circuits (34.5 kV and below) will
incorporate a Δ-Y, or 30 deg phase shift from the higher transmission voltages.
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 40 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Interconnection requests, particularly involving transformers, need to consider the

phase relationship between the BPA transmission voltages and the Requester’s desired
or existing system voltages.
Transformers connecting to the transmission system where a source of real power flows
through the transformer to the BPA high voltage transmission system shall provide a
ground source of current on the high voltage side. A YG-Δ or a YG-Δ-YG transformer
with the Y-ground connection on the high voltage side can accomplish this. A YG-YG
connection is only appropriate if there is a sufficient ground source on the low voltage
side and will need to be evaluated by BPA before being permitted. New Δ-YG
transformers with the delta connection on the high side are only permitted on radial
(feeder) systems with no power flow into the BPA high voltage transmission system.
For generator interconnections where a low-impedance ground source is also desired
on the generator side of the transformer, such as for a connection to a wind farm, the
most typical transformer configuration is YG-Δ-YG (e.g. 230–34.5 kV). Where low-
impedance grounding is not desired on the generator side, the typical configuration is
YG-Δ (e.g. 230-23 kV), with the Δ connection on the generator side.
Some substations on the BPA transmission system have very high ground fault levels.
Interconnection at or near these substations naturally increases these levels and the
additional ground source on the high voltage side increases them further. BPA may
place special requirements on the connection transformer to increase the high-side
grounding impedance. This will be done to decrease the ground fault contribution of the
interconnection while still maintaining acceptable high-side grounding. These
requirements are determined on a case-by-case basis.
7.4.2 Existing Installations
Generation or transmission connections to existing -YG transformers used to serve
load may require additional system equipment, such as a grounding bank, to provide
adequate protection against ungrounded system operation. Relay protection schemes
may also be required to ensure immediate disconnection of the power source following
disconnection of the transmission system components. BPA will consider these on a
case-by-case basis only.
7.4.2.1 Radial 525/230 kV Transformer Installations for Generation
To meet demand for several renewable generation projects to interconnect in the same
proximity in the most efficient manner possible, a radial 500/230 kV plan of service may
be recommended by Transmission Planning. A position in the 500 kV yard of a new or
existing BPA substation will include a 1300 MVA transformer bank (3 x 433 MVA
525/230-34.5 kV single phase auto-transformer units) with a spare 433 MVA phase to
provide for interconnections at 230 kV. The spare transformer phase is required to
minimize outage times if a transformer failure occurs, and provides maintenance
flexibility.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 41 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

In general, bulk transfers delivering generation to load centers occur across the 500 kV
main grid transmission system. A radial 500/230 kV transformer (Hub) connection to
the 500 kV system reduces the cumulative effects of large number of individual
generation projects connecting to the 230 kV system in the area and the associated
reliability mitigation issues. This plan of service injects the generation directly into the
500 kV main grid system, avoiding 230 kV system expansion and reinforcements
needed to deliver the generation to the main grid. Potential overloads are limited and
easier to manage across the 500 kV system. Transmission Planning will decide which
plan of service is warranted based on system conditions in the area of the requested
generation interconnections and the number of requests anticipated in the area.
7.4.3 Neutral Shifts
When generation is connected to the low-voltage, grounded wye side of a delta-
grounded wye (Δ – YG) transformer, opening the high voltage connection due to fault
clearing may cause overvoltage on the high voltage terminal. These high voltages can
affect personnel safety and damage equipment. This type of overvoltage is commonly
described as a neutral shift and can increase the voltage on the unfaulted phases to as
high as 1.73 per unit. At this voltage, the equipment insulation withstand duration can
be very short. Several alternative remedies to avoid neutral shift and its potential
problems are possible.
7.4.3.1 Effectively Grounded System
Utilize appropriate transformer connections on the high-voltage side to make the system
‘effectively grounded’. Effectively grounded is defined as a system X0/X1 ≤ 3.0 and
R0/X1 ≤ 1.0. Any of these methods can result in an effectively grounded system that
will minimize the risk of damage to surge arresters and other connected equipment.
Methods available to obtain an effective ground on the high voltage side of a
transformer include the following:
 A transformer with the transmission voltage (BPA) side connected in a YG
configuration and low voltage side in a closed .
 A three winding transformer with a closed Δ tertiary winding and both the primary
and secondary sides connected YG.
 Installation of a grounding transformer on the high voltage side.
7.4.3.2 Increase Insulation Levels
Size the insulation of equipment connected to the transmission line high-voltage side to
be able to withstand the expected amplitude and duration of the neutral shift. This may
include equipment at other locations.
7.4.3.3 High Speed Separation
Rapidly separate the back-feed source from the step-up transformer by tripping a
breaker, using either remote relay detection with pilot scheme (transfer trip) or local
relay detection of the overvoltage condition.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 42 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

7.5 Substation Grounding

Each substation must have a ground grid that is solidly connected to all metallic
structures and other non-energized metallic equipment. This grid shall limit the ground
potential gradients to such voltage and current levels that will not endanger the safety of
people or damage equipment in, or immediately adjacent to, the station under both
normal and fault conditions. The ground grid size and type are in part based on local
soil conditions and available electrical fault current magnitudes. In areas where ground
grid voltage rises beyond acceptable and safe limits (for example due to high soil
resistivity or limited substation space), grounding rods and grounding wells may be
required to reduce the ground grid resistance to acceptable levels.
If a new ground grid is close to another substation, the two ground grids may be isolated
or connected. If the ground grids are isolated, then no metallic ground connections are
allowed between the two substation ground grids. Cable shields, cable sheaths, station
service ground sheaths and overhead transmission shield wires can all inadvertently
connect ground grids. All-dielectric type fiber optic cables are highly preferable for
providing telecommunications and control between two substations while maintaining
isolated ground grids. If the ground grids are to be interconnected, the interconnecting
cables must have sufficient capacity to handle fault currents and control ground grid
voltage rises. BPA must approve any connection to a BPA substation ground grid.
New interconnections of transmission lines and/or generation may substantially
increase fault current levels at nearby substations. Modifications to the ground grids of
existing substations may be necessary to keep grid voltage rises within safe levels. The
connection study will determine if modifications are required and the estimated cost.
The ground grid should be designed to applicable ANSI and IEEE Standards relating to
safety in substation grounding.
7.6 Station Service
Power that is provided for local use at a substation or generation facility to operate
lighting, heat and auxiliary equipment is termed station service. Alternate station
service is a backup or alternate independent source of AC power, used in emergency
situations or during maintenance when primary station service is not available.
Station service power is the responsibility of the Requester. The station service
requirements of the new facilities, including voltage and reactive requirements, shall not
impose operating restrictions on the BPA Grid beyond those specified in applicable
NERC, WECC and NWPP Reliability Criteria.
Appropriate providers of station service and alternate station service are determined
during the interconnection study and planning process, including Project Requirements
Diagram development and review. Generally, the local utility will be the preferred
provider of primary station service unless it is unable to serve the load, or the required
facilities are prohibitively expensive. Note that even if one source of station service is
backfeed via the BPA grid, the Requester must make commercial arrangements with
the local utility for retail service.
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 43 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

The Requester must provide metering for station service and alternate station service,
as specified by the metering section of this document or negotiate other acceptable
arrangements.
If the Requester intends to schedule station service energy to the Project, the
Requester is responsible to make arrangements for TSIN registration, appropriate
Source/Sink identification, commercial transmission service and scheduling. The
Requester should contact the BPA Transmission Services Account Executive at least
six months prior to the desired energization date.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 44 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

8. TRANSMISSION LINE DESIGN

BPA owned or maintained transmission lines shall be designed to meet all applicable
reliability criteria, BPA Design Standards, and the requirements of the BPA Accident
Prevention Manual. Among these requirements are the following:
8.1 ROW Width
BPA’s ROW widths are based on maintaining horizontal clearances to buildings and
other installations with the conductor displaced from rest by 6-psf (49 mph) wind
pressure on bare conductor at 60° Fahrenheit (F) final sag. The ROW width of all new
transmission lines owned or maintained by BPA shall be designed to meet BPA
Standard STD-DT-000062.

8.2 Cable and Structure Design

All new transmission lines owned or maintained by BPA shall be designed to meet all
BPA design and maintenance standards. Designs shall use existing BPA standard
cables and structures if at all possible. Coordinate with BPA staff to determine the
appropriate standards to use and apply.

8.3 Lightning Protection and Grounding

All new transmission lines owned or maintained by BPA shall be designed according to
BPA transmission line design standards STD-DT-000024: Transmission Line Grounding
Standard, and STD-DT-000064: Transmission Line Lightning Protection. Briefly a few
of the main requirements of these standards are as follows.
 To provide substation shielding and to reduce the risk of substation equipment
damage from incoming lightning surges on the transmission lines, all new lines
connecting to a BPA substation shall have overhead ground wires (OHGW) extend
out at least ½-mile from the BPA substation for 69 kV to 161 kV and 1-mile for lines
at 230 kV. See requirements below for 500 kV transmission lines. The transmission
line OHGWs shall be insulated from the substation ground grid. The number of
OHGWs used for shielding depend on reliability required and will be determined by
BPA on a case-by-case basis.
 Interconnected substations that are adjacent, or in close proximity, to each other
shall include continuous OHGW or shield wire between stations. Close proximity is
defined here for 230kV and above stations that are less than 1 mile apart in line
length, and stations below 230kV that are less than ½ mile apart in line length.
 All new 500 kV transmission lines shall provide shielding with one or more OHGW
for the entire length of the line. These OHGW are segmented into isolated sections,
insulated with single point grounds near the center of each isolated section. Each
segment is limited to 8 miles for single-circuit and 3.5 miles for double circuit.
Locate towers with OHGW grounding away from public-use areas.
 If the Requester proposes to tap a shielded (OHGW) transmission line, the tap line
must also be shielded for its entire length. When tapping into an unshielded
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 45 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

transmission line, the tap line shall be shielded in accordance with the requirements
above; except for short taps (whose total lengths are less than the shielding lengths
listed above). In this case, the tap line shall be shielded for its entire length.
8.4 Surge Protection
All lines connecting to a BPA substation shall include substation entrance surge
protection, typically in the form of Station class MOV surge arresters. BPA will
determine the appropriate level of surge protection as described in section 5.4.5.
Line sectionalizing switching stations or switching terminals utilizing power circuit
breakers, circuit switchers or similar electronically controlled switching device shall
include surge protection on both line sides.
8.5 Underbuild
BPA transmission lines are not designed to accommodate underbuilds. Site specific
analysis must be completed to determine if BPA will allow an underbuild. If permitted,
the permitting shall be documented with requirements set forth by a pole contact
agreement.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 46 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

9. CONTROL & PROTECTION DESIGN

9.1 Control and Protection Requirements
BPA coordinates its protective relays and control schemes to provide for personnel
safety and equipment protection and to minimize disruption of services during
disturbances. New connections usually require the addition or modification of protective
relays and/or control schemes, including replacement or modification of equipment at
the remote terminal(s). The new protection must be compatible with existing protective
relay schemes and present standards. The addition of voltage transformers, current
transformers, or pilot scheme (transfer trip) may also be necessary. If protective
relaying equipment installed at the POD or POI will be maintained or operated by BPA
personnel, or if these relays must communicate with BPA installed relays at remote
terminals, then the BPA standard for this application must be followed. BPA will supply
the Requester with protective relay system recommendations.
9.1.1 Introduction
The protection requirements identified in this document address the following
objectives:
Specify adequate protective relays that will quickly and reliably remove faulted
equipment from the power system in order to:
 Minimize disruptions to the BPA transmission system and interconnected systems
 Minimize safety risk to the public and utility personnel
 Minimize damage to power system equipment
Ensure that protective relays are reliable and meet the requirements of BPA, NERC,
WECC, and NWPP.
Introduce requirements for other protection and control schemes that may be required,
e.g. transfer trip, RAS, load tripping, generator tripping, underfrequency load shedding,
etc.
In order to achieve these objectives, certain protective equipment (relays, circuit
breakers, etc) must be installed. These devices ensure that the appropriate equipment
is promptly disconnected from the BPA Grid during faults or other abnormal conditions.
Protective equipment requirements depend on the plan of service. Significant issues
that could affect these requirements include:
 The location and configuration of the proposed connection.
 The level of existing service and protection to adjacent facilities (including those of
other BPA customers and potentially those of other utilities).
 The connection of a line or load that coincidentally connects a generation resource,
which was not previously connected to the BPA Grid. In this case, the Requester
must also follow the additional requirements for interconnection of generation
resources.
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 47 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

BPA will work with the Requester to achieve an installation that meets the Requester’s
and BPA’s requirements.
BPA cannot assume any responsibility for protection of Requester’s equipment.
Requesters are solely responsible for protecting their equipment in such a manner that
faults, imbalances, or other disturbances do not cause damage to their facilities or result
in problems with other customers.
9.1.2 Protection Criteria
The protection system must be designed to reliably detect faults or abnormal system
conditions and provide an appropriate means and location to isolate the equipment or
system automatically. The protection system must be able to detect power system
faults within the protection zone. The protection system should also detect abnormal
operating conditions such as islanding, equipment failures or open phase conditions.
Special relaying practices may also be required for system disturbances, such as
undervoltage or underfrequency detection for load shedding or reactive device
switching. For most generation and some loads, the Requester will also be required to
participate in special protection schemes or RAS including automatic tripping or
damping.
9.1.2.1 General Protection Practices
The following summarizes the general protection practices as required by NERC and
WECC, as well as specific practices and applications as applied to BPA transmission
lines and interconnections. The protection schemes and equipment necessary to
integrate the new connection must be consistent with these practices. Table 2 specifies
maximum allowable operating times for protection systems and breakers by voltage
category.
9.1.2.1.1 Selection and Review Considerations
The POI protection system security and dependability and the related effects on the
power system must be carefully weighed when designing the protection system. BPA
reserves the right to review and require changes to the POI protection system and
settings.
9.1.2.1.2 Regulatory Requirements
Protective relays and their settings are required to follow various regulatory
requirements such as NERC and WECC Standards. These requirements are subject to
change. Although BPA attempts to provide guidance to customers regarding these
requirements, BPA is not responsible for the failure of a customer’s protective relay
systems to meet these requirements.
9.1.2.1.3 Reliability and Redundancy
Protective relay systems must be designed for reliability and redundancy. The
protection system must be capable of meeting the operating times for the appropriate
voltage class specified in Table 2, and redundancy is required so that the failure of any
single protection system component will not prevent the system from meeting the
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 48 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

requirements of Table 2. This will normally require redundant relays—each with

currents and voltages provided from separate secondary windings—redundant breaker
trip coils, and if required by the protection scheme, redundant communication systems.
Redundant station batteries are not required if battery monitoring meets NERC
standards, but each set of relays must have its own separately protected DC source.
9.1.2.1.4 Instrument Transformers
The secondary relay currents and potentials to the redundant relays must be sourced
from separate instrument transformer secondary windings so that the failure of one
secondary winding will not disable all of the redundant relays. The use of capacitive
voltage transformers (CVTs) and magnetically coupled voltage transformers (MVTs) is
generally acceptable for protection purposes. The use of bushing potential devices for
protective relaying may not be appropriate if the protection device includes settings for
frequency deviations and overvoltages. Current transformers used for protective
relaying should generally have a C800 accuracy class rating.
9.1.2.1.5 Test Switches
For relay installations that BPA will own or maintain, BPA requires a sufficient number of
test switches and isolating devices to provide ease of testing and maintenance without
the need for lifting wires.
For customer owned and maintained relay installations, BPA recommends sufficient test
switches and isolating devices to allow ease of maintenance and testing. BPA also
recommends that maintenance tagging and switching procedures be developed to
prevent inadvertent trips during maintenance, or test switches or isolating devices being
inadvertently left in an incorrect state.
9.1.2.1.6 Security over Ranges of Loading and System Voltage
NERC Standard PRC-023 requires that protective relays must not operate for load
conditions up to 150% of the equipment rating and voltages as low as 85% of nominal.
Relay settings shall not infringe upon BPA’s ability to operate at maximum transfer
levels.
9.1.2.1.7 Synchronizing and Reclosing
At the POI, the customer is not allowed to energize a de-energized line connected to the
BPA grid without approval of the BPA dispatcher. Breaker reclose supervision
(automatic and manual including SCADA) may be required at the connecting substation
and/or electrically adjacent stations. This may include hot-bus and dead-line checking,
synchronization checking, etc.
9.1.2.2 Protection Performance
Protection systems must be capable of performing their intended function during fault
conditions. The magnitude of the fault depends on the fault type, system configuration,
and fault location. It may be necessary to perform extensive model line tests of the
protective relay system to verify that the selected relay works properly for various
system configurations. Power system swings, major system disturbances and islanding
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 49 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

may require the application of special protective devices or schemes. The following
discussion identifies the conditions under which relay schemes must operate.
9.1.2.2.1 Phase Fault Detection
The relay system must be able to detect multi-phase faults and trip at high speed for
high fault currents. Non-directional overcurrent, directional overcurrent, distance, and
line differential relays may be applicable depending on system requirements.
Infeed detection to faults within the power system usually requires directional current-
sensing relays to remove the contribution to the fault from the POI. The distance relay
(IEEE device 21) is a good choice for this application since it is generally immune to
changes in the source impedance.
9.1.2.2.2 Ground Fault Detection
Ground fault detection has varying requirements. The availability of sufficient zero-
sequence current sources and the ground fault resistance both significantly affect the
relay’s ability to properly detect ground faults. The same types of relays used for phase
fault detection are suitable for ground fault detection. If ground fault distance relays are
used, backup ground time-overcurrent relays should also be applied to provide
protection for the inevitable high-resistance ground fault.
9.1.2.2.3 Breaker Failure Protection
Breaker Failure Protection is required on all breakers at transmission voltage, which
BPA defines as 69 kV and above. For three-cycle or faster breakers, the breaker failure
relay is generally set to trip if the fault has not been cleared within 8 cycles after the
relay trip command. Breaker failure relays are not required to be redundant.
9.1.2.2.4 Islanding
Intentional islanding is a utility practice to deliberately choose to isolate its distribution
system and use local generation to feed loads during transmission system outages.
Unintentional islanding describes a condition in which the power system splits into
isolated load and generation groups, usually when breakers operate for fault clearing or
system stability remedial action. Delayed fault clearing, overvoltages, ferroresonance,
extended undervoltage and off-nominal frequency operation, and degraded service
quality for other customers can result from a local unintentional islanded condition.
BPA does not allow unintentional islanding conditions to persist that include its facilities,
except for a controlled, temporary, area-wide grid separation. Where generation is
connected to the BPA transmission system, implications of unintentional islanding must
be addressed to minimize adverse impacts on connected loads.
Generation facilities equipped with over and under frequency (81O/U) and over and
under voltage (59/27) protective relays may also use those relays to partially meet
BPA’s requirements to detect and trip on unintentional islanding conditions. Settings for
these relays shall be in accordance with WECC underfrequency load shedding

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 50 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

requirements. BPA reserves the right to require more extensive unintentional islanding
protection.
9.1.2.2.5 Relay Performance and Transfer Trip Requirements
Relay systems are designed to isolate the transmission line and/or other facilities from
the BPA Grid. However, the performance (clearing time) of local relay systems and the
associated isolating devices (circuit breakers, etc) will vary. The protection equipment
of the new connection must, at least maintain the performance level of the existing
protection equipment at that location.
In general, protective relay schemes at 230kV and above require the relays to be
capable of providing an instantaneous trip for faults anywhere on the protected line.
This will require some type of pilot communications to insure secure, high-speed fault
clearing. Lower voltages may also require pilot communications to insure secure, high-
speed fault clearing. BPA normally uses direct under-reaching and permissive
overreaching transfer trip for its pilot schemes, but other types of pilot tripping such as
directional comparison, phase comparison or current differential may also be acceptable
if the chosen scheme can achieve the total clearing times required and is compatible
with the selected method of pilot communication.
There are several other situations that will require a transfer tripping scheme to facilitate
the operation of a remote breaker. Some of these situations are given below.
 Transient or steady-state studies identify conditions where maintaining system
stability requires immediate high-speed separation of the POI facility from the power
system.
 Special operational control considerations require immediate separation of the POI
from the BPA Grid.
 Extended fault duration represents an additional safety hazard to personnel and can
cause significant damage to power system equipment.
 Slow clearing or other undesirable conditions such as extended overvoltages or
ferroresonance which, cannot be resolved by local conventional protection
measures, will require the addition of pilot tripping using remote relay detection at
other substation sites. This scenario is a distinct possibility should a BPA circuit that
connects other customer loads become part of an unintentional island that includes
a generator.
 When remote circuit breaker tripping is required, in order to clear faults in a
transformer not terminated by a high side breaker, high-speed transfer tripping will
be required. The transfer trip may also be required to block automatic reclosing.
Other unique configurations may impose the same requirement.
 Relay operate times are adjusted to coordinate for faults on the local configuration
such as a three terminal lines, fault currents available, etc. Total clearing times must
be less than those listed in Table 2. Refer to Section 10 for telecommunication
issues as they pertain to control and protection requirements.
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 51 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

9.1.2.2.6 Synchronizing and Reclosing Requirements

Synchronizing and reclosing requirements can vary widely depending on the specific
circumstances. For radial feeds, single- or multi-shot reclosing is generally allowed for
single- or multi-phase faults. For network transmission lines, reclosing is generally
limited to a single shot for 230kV and above lines, and only for single-phase faults for
500kV lines. A minimum dead time of 35 cycles is required. If the new connection
results in the possibility of connecting a generation source, special considerations may
be required. Section 13.8 identifies synchronizing and reclosing requirements
specifically related to generator additions.
If a connection is made to an existing line, automatic reclosing schemes at the remote
line breakers may need to be modified. On transmission lines below 138 kV, automatic-
sectionalizing schemes may be installed to isolate a portion of the system that has a
permanent fault. This includes multi-shot automatic reclosing at remote terminals. A
new interconnection should be compatible with such existing schemes.
Table 2.— Relay and Breaker Operating Times by System Voltage
Connection Total PCB Trip
Maximum Relay Time Delayed
Voltage Clearing
Operate Time Time Tripping
Time
(Line-Line Acceptable?
(Cycles) (Cycles)
rms) (Cycles)

< 100 kV ≤ 12-14* ≤ 4-6* ≤8 Yes

100 to 138 kV ≤ 7-9* ≤ 2-4* ≤5 Yes
161 to 230 kV ≤ 5-7* ≤ 2-4* ≤3 Yes
230 kV Main ≤4 ≤1 ≤2 No**
Grid to 345 kV
500 kV ≤4 ≤1 ≤2 No**
* Relay operating and total clearing times are for instantaneous element trips at the
terminal closest to the fault. Inverse time and time delayed elements are considerably
longer. Sequential instantaneous or time delay tripping may occur at the remote terminal.
**Transfer trip or other communications aided-tripping is required.
9.1.3 Protection System Selection and Coordination
9.1.3.1 Protection Requirements for the Interconnecting System
Upon request, BPA will supply the Requester with a list of protective relay systems
considered suitable for use at the POI. Should the Requester select a relay system not
on the approved list, BPA reserves the right to perform a full set of acceptance tests
prior to granting permission to use the selected protection scheme. Alternatively, the
relay vendor or a third party may be asked to perform thorough model line tests of the

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 52 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

proposed relay system. If there are special performance requirements for the protective
relays at the POI, BPA will notify the Requester.
9.1.3.2 Protection System Coordination and Programming
The following are basic considerations that must be used in determining the settings of
the protection systems. Depending upon the complexity and criticality of the system at
the POI, complete model line testing of the protection system, including the settings and
programming, may have to be performed prior to installation to verify the protection
system performance.
 Fault study models used for determining protection settings should take into account
significant zero-sequence impedances. Up-to-date fault study system models shall
be used.
 Protection system applications and settings should not normally limit transmission
use.
 Application of zone 3 relays or other relays with settings overly sensitive to overload
or depressed voltage conditions should be avoided where possible. These relays
must meet NERC and WECC standards for relay loadability.
 Protection systems should prevent tripping for stable swings on the interconnected
transmission system. During a system disturbance, power swings may result which
can affect operation of protective relays, especially distance relays. Out-of-step
blocking is commonly applied to distance relays to prevent inadvertent operation
during a power swing. However, the application of such schemes must be
coordinated with BPA to assure that blocking the distance elements will not result in
the inappropriate or undesirable formation of islands.
 Protection system applications and settings should be reviewed whenever significant
changes in generating sources, transmission facilities, or operating conditions are
anticipated.
 All protection system trip misoperations shall be analyzed for cause, and corrective
action taken.
9.1.3.3 Relays for the Point of Interconnection
The following list of relays has been developed in recognition of varied interconnection
requirements. Relay performance under certain fault scenarios is also a consideration
in the selection of these relays. The specific relays used must be functionally consistent
with and complementary to BPA’s general protection practices identified in Section
9.1.2.
The relay functions generally necessary to serve this purpose as used by BPA include:

Phase overcurrent (non-directional) (50/51)

Neutral overcurrent (non-directional) (50/51-N)

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 53 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Zone distance (phase or phase and ground distance) (21/21-N)

Directional ground overcurrent (67-N)

Ground overcurrent (51-G)

or ground fault detection scheme (59-Z)

Over/under voltage (59/27)

Over/under frequency (81)

Instantaneous overvoltage (ungrounded high side) (59)

Remote automatic breaker reclose supervision (79-X)

(HB/DL, HB/HL with synchronism check)

Current differential (87)

Except as otherwise agreed by BPA, BPA will furnish, install, operate and maintain all
relaying at the POI for the purposes of protecting the BPA Grid. Other relaying for
protection of the Requester’s equipment will be the responsibility of the Requester. All
relays, which can adversely affect the BPA Grid, shall be ‘utility grade’ quality, subject to
review by BPA.
Refer to Section 10 for telecommunication issues as they pertain to control and
protection requirements.
9.1.4 Generator Protection - Special Requirements
Integration of new generation has special requirements in addition to the previously
described protection requirements. This section primarily deals with the protection
requirements for the integration of synchronous and asynchronous rotating machines.
Wind turbine installations require special considerations. The actual protection
requirements and choice of relay type will vary depending upon several factors:
 MVA capacity of the generation
 Generation Type: synchronous or asynchronous
 Location of the generation interconnection on the transmission grid
 Voltage level of the generation interconnection
 Transformer winding configuration for the generator step-up transformer and/or
interconnecting transformer
 Change in the fault current capacity as a result of the added generation
 Availability of telecommunications facilities
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 54 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Examples of some typical generator integration plans are shown in Table 3 and Figures
5 through 9. Table 3 identifies only the protection equipment, which may affect the
operation of the BPA Grid. The type of resource proposed and location of the POI will
determine any special protection requirements for other types of resources, such as
photovoltaic, wave, etc.
9.1.4.1 Fault Protection
Protective relays are required to detect phase and ground faults on the generator
interconnection. The relay systems shown in Figures 5 through 9 are designed to
isolate the generator from the BPA grid at or near the POI. However, the performance
(clearing time speed) of these local relay systems and the associated isolating devices
(circuit breakers, circuit switches etc.) will vary. In most cases, protective devices
described in Section 9.1.3 will also be appropriate for this interconnection.
Ground fault detection has varying requirements. The most significant consideration in
the ability to detect ground faults on the BPA Grid is the winding configuration of the
transformer connecting the generator to the grid. The scenarios below assume that the
generator is connected to the low-voltage side of this transformer.
9.1.4.1.1 Transformer Grounded Wye (YG) Connection on the BPA Grid
Side
This is the BPA required transformer connection when adding a new generation
resource to the transmission grid. The transformers will either be YG- or YG--YG.
Either of these connections provides a solid ground source for the transmission grid.
For a transformer connected with a grounded-wye on the primary (high-voltage) side, a
ground overcurrent relay (50/51-G) connected in the neutral of the wye winding provides
transmission fault detection. This relay also protects the transformer.
A directional ground overcurrent relay (67-N) is generally provided for detection of
ground faults in the transmission system when transformer connections are of the types
identified above. Since this relay function complements zone-distance protection used
for phase fault detections, it is included in many presently manufactured relays. See
Figures 5, 6 and 9 for typical examples of this configuration.
9.1.4.1.2 Transformer Delta () Connection on the BPA Grid Side and
Potential Overvoltages
Some smaller generation projects are proposed for integration into existing utility power
systems through a delta transformer connection to the transmission grid. This -YG
transformer was originally designed only to serve loads; e.g., connection at the 12.5 kV
side of the 115 kV/12.5 kV transformer. This common transformer configuration
requires special relay considerations when generation is proposed for connection to the
low voltage terminal. The existing protection at these installations was applied under
the assumption that there was not a source from the low-voltage side to infeed to faults
in the power system. BPA will review all such requests on a case-by-case basis to
determine acceptability. New relays, transfer trip, ground detection equipment, or a
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 55 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

grounding transformer may be required to assure timely removal of the generation

source for safe clearing of faults on the transmission system. Figures 7 and 8 show
examples of this configuration.
Table 3.— Relay Functions for Figures 5 to 9

Interconnecting Substation, High Voltage Transmission Line Protection

The following relays are intended for the interconnecting substation to detect faults on
the BPA Grid and isolate the interconnecting substation from the BPA Grid.

Figure Relay Intent

Distance relays trip line breakers for multi-phase faults on the

transmission lines to the Interconnecting Substation. Ground
5, 6, 21-1, distance relays may be used for ground faults. These relays may
8, 9 21-2/ 62 have single pole switching capability. They also may be connected to
a transfer trip or other pilot channel. More than two zones may be
required.

Directional ground overcurrent relay trips line breakers for ground

faults on the transmission lines to the Interconnecting Substation.
5, 6, These relays may have single pole switching capability. They also
67 N
8, 9 may be connected to a transfer trip or other pilot channel. Potential
polarization: shown in the figures. Current polarizing or negative
sequence polarizing may also be used.

Line differential relays are often necessary to avoid coordination

5, 6, problems with other relays to limit nuisance trips of the generator.
87
8, 9 Distance relays (21), directional overcurrent ground relays (67N), and
a permissive overreach transfer trip may also be used.

Automatic reclose supervision is necessary at the interconnecting

substation and/or the remote high voltage substations when a
generator is added. This includes a hot bus/dead line (HB/DL) check
5-9 79 X
and a synchronism check. The automatic reclose supervision will
prevent the transmission line from reclosing if the generator remains
in service and is not in synchronism with the BPA Grid.

This relay detects overvoltages, and ground faults as indicated

above. With an instantaneous trip at 1.5pu overvoltage. It is
7, 8 59 provided to avoid arrester failure for ground faults. This scheme is
most often required when the interconnecting substation includes a
-YG transformer.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 56 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Table 3 Continued…

Interconnecting Substation, Transformer Protection

The following devices are typically used at the interconnecting substation to provide
protection of the power transformer that interfaces between the generator and the BPA
Grid.

Figure Relay Intent

A ground fault detection scheme is used to detect ground faults on

the tapped transmission line. (Normally the open delta 3V0 scheme
with inverse time characteristic). Trips of this relay may need to be
7, 8 59 Z time coordinated with other relays so that faults beyond the tapped
transmission line do not cause unnecessary trips of the generator
feeder. This scheme is most often required when the interconnecting
substation includes a -YG transformer.

Some existing -YG transformers may have high side fuse

7 Fuse
protection. This is generally not acceptable for new installations.

These relays protect transformers from overcurrent conditions

caused by low side faults extreme overloads or unbalances. Phase
overcurrent relays are usually set to pickup at approximately twice
50/51,
5-9 the transformer thermal rating. These relays are time-coordinated
50/51N
with low side feeder relaying. Voltage restrained time overcurrent
relays may be used instead of the standard 50 element. 50/51 relays
may also provide backup for transformer 87 relays.

This relay protects transformers from overcurrent conditions caused

5, 6,
50/51G by low side ground faults or extreme unbalances. These relays are
8, 9
time-coordinated with low side feeder relaying.

Sudden pressure or Buchholz relays may also be provided for the

5-9 63
transformer.

Transformer differentials relays may be used for transformer

protection.
5-9 87

Generator Interconnection

The following relays are required at or near the generation. These relays do not provide
fault protection for the generator itself, which is the responsibility of the generator owner.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 57 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Table 3 Continued…

Figure Relay Intent

This relay provides synchronism check supervising function for

generator breaker close circuits.
5-8 25

These relays detect abnormal voltage conditions often caused by

unintentional island operation scenarios. The undervoltage relay can
serve as a means of fault detection for instances of weak fault current
5-9 27/59 infeed from generator to faults on the feeder or interconnected
system. It protects generator against extended operation at
abnormal voltages. Undervoltage relay settings are coordinated with
Pacific Northwest undervoltage load shedding plan..

This relay detects abnormal frequency conditions, often caused by

unintentional island operation scenarios. It protects generator
5-9 81 against extended operation at abnormal frequencies.
Underfrequency relay settings are coordinated with the WECC and
NWPP underfrequency load-shedding plan.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 58 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Remote Station Remote Station

"L" "R"

L R
~
~

~
~
(3V0) 79
X
67 21- 21-
N 2 1

62 C
79 79 (3V0)
X X
Interconnecting 21- 21- 67
Substation 1 2 N

A B 62

CT and PT locations shown for

illustration. Actual locations and
connections to be identified on Project
Diagram.

Pilot trip requirements contingent upon

~
~ 87

specific project details.

A short distance from the
Relay Trips interconnecting substation
to generator is assumed.
Line Protection
Line to L D
21-1, 21-2/62, 67N A, C

Line to R
21-1, 21-2/62, 67N B, C

Line protection relays may be single- 50/ 50/ Transformer

pole type. Additional zones may be 51 51N O.C.’s
required.

Line to Generator
87 A, B, D 50/
51G
21 and 67N Relays with POTT may
also be used.

GSU Transformer Protection

50/51, 50/51N D, E
50/51G D, E
25
87 Relays may also be used on GSU. E
Generator
27/59 E
81 E 27/
81
59

Relays used specifically for generator Generator Loads G

protection not shown.

Figure 5.---Integration of Generation into a Transmission Level Substation

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 59 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Other Loads
Remote Station Remote Station
"L" "R"

L R

79 HB/DL Automatic 79
X reclose supervision X

HB/HL w/sync. check

supervision of automatic
Transformer reclosing or reclosing cut
O.C's out
50/ 50/
51 51N

A (3V0)
Distance and directional
ground relays "look" into
Interconnecting 21- 21- 67 transmission system -
Substation 1 2 N additional zones may be
used.
62

50/
51G

CT and PT locations shown for 50/ 50/ Feeder

51 51N O.C's
illustration. Actual locations and
connections to be identified on Project
Diagram. * Typical BPA Substations with transformers
B connected YG-have a grounding transformer to
Pilot trip requirements contingent upon provide a zero sequence source for relaying. In
* Grounding some cases, the grounding transformer may be sized
specific project details. Transformer to provide ‘effective grounding’ of the Delta bus.
Relay Trips ~
~ Current differential relays may be appropriate for a
To customer short line between B and D.
Line Protection loads
21-1, 21-2/62, 67N A
D 51V Relays may be appropriate for Generator at D.
Transformer Protection Generator
50/51, 50/51N A, B 50/ 50/ Project
50/51G A, B 51 51N
O.C's

Feeder Protection
50/51, 50/51N B

Generator
25
50/51, 50/51N D or E E
27/59 D or E
81 D or E

Relays used specifically for generator 27/

81
protection not shown. 59

Loads G

Figure 6.--- Integration of Generation into a Low Voltage Substation Protected by

a High Side Circuit Breaker and Connected to a Transmission Line Through a YG-
 (as shown) or YG--YG Transformer

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 60 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Remote Station Other Loads Remote Station

"L" "R"

L R

79 HB/DL Automatic 79
X reclose supervision X

HB/HL w/sync. check

supervision of automatic
reclosing or reclosing cut
out

(3V0)
59
Z

Fuse

Interconnecting
Substation
Distance and directional
ground relays "look" into
21- 21-
1 2
59 transmission system -
additional zones may be
used.
62

50/ 50/ Feeder

51 51N O.C's

CT and PT locations shown for

B
illustration. Actual locations and Current differential relays may be
connections to be identified on Project appropriate for a short line between B and
Diagram.
~
~ D.

Pilot trip requirements contingent upon To existing 51V Relays may be appropriate for
specific project details. customer loads Generator at D.

Relay Trips
D
Generator
Line Protection 50/ 50/ Project
21-1, 21-2/62 B 51 51N
O.C's
59Z, 59 B

Feeder Protection
50/51, 50/51N B
25
Generator E
50/51, 50/51N D or E
27/59 D or E
81 D or E
27/
81
59
Relays used specifically for generator
protection not shown. Loads G

Figure 7.--- Integration of Generation to an Existing Low Voltage Substation

Connected to the Transmission line Through a Fused -YG Transformer

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 61 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Other Loads
Remote Station Remote Station
"L" "R"

L R

79 HB/DL Automatic 79
X reclose supervision X

HB/HL w/sync. check

supervision of automatic
reclosing or reclosing cut
out
50/ Transformer (3V0)
51
O.C's 59
Z

A
Distance and directional
ground relays "look" into
21- 21-
59
transmission system -
Interconnecting 1 2 additional zones may be
Substation used.
62

50/
51G

50/ 50/ Feeder

CT and PT locations shown for 51 51N O.C's
illustration. Actual locations and
connections to be identified on Project
Diagram. B
Pilot trip requirements contingent upon
specific project details. Current differential relays may be

Relay Trips
~
~
appropriate for a short line between B and
D.
To existing
Line Protection customer loads 51V Relays may be appropriate for
Generator at D.
21-1, 21-2/62 B D
59Z, 59 B
Generator
Transformer Protection 50/ 50/ Project
50/51 A, B 51 51N
O.C's
50/51G A, B

Feeder Protection
50/51, 50/51N B
25
Generator Protection E
50/51, 50/51N D or E
27/59 D or E
81 D or E
27/
81
59
Relays used specifically for generator
protection not shown. Loads G

Figure 8.--- Integration of Generation to an Existing Low Voltage Substation

Connected to a Transmission line a -YG Transformer and Protected by a High
Side Circuit Breaker (Switcher)

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 62 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Remote Station Other Loads

Remote Station
"L" "R"

L R

79 HB/DL Automatic 79
X reclose supervision X

HB/HL w/sync. check

supervision of automatic
reclosing or reclosing cut
Transformer out
O.C's
50/ 50/
51 51N
CT and PT locations shown for
illustration. Actual locations and
connections to be identified on Project
Diagram. A (3V0)
Distance and directional
Pilot trip requirements contingent upon ground relays "look" into
specific project details. 21- 21- 67
transmission system -
1 2 N
additional zones may be
Relay Trips used.
62
Interconnecting
Line Protection 50/
Substation 51G
21-1, 21-2/62, 67N A

Transformer Protection 50/

51G
50/51, 50/51N A, B
50/51G A, B 50/ 50/ Transformer
51 51N O.C's
Wind String Protection
50/51, 50/51N D, etc.
81
27/59 B
81 B B
Relays used specifically for generator 27/
59
protection not shown.

50/ 50/ 50/ 50/ 50/ 50/

51 51N 51 51N 51 51N

C D E F
Station
Service

G
G
G Additional Strings or
Power Factor Collectors
Correction Capacitors G
G
Wind String, Collector #1

Figure 9.--- Integration of a Typical Wind Generation Facility to a 69 kV or 115 kV

Transmission Line Through a YG--YG Transformer

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 63 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

9.1.4.1.3 Potential Overvoltages with Delta Connection on the

Transmission Side
For ground faults on the high voltage system, protective relaying at the transformer
cannot detect zero sequence current at this location unless a ground source (grounding
bank) is connected to the high-voltage side of the transformer. Circuit breaker
operation(s) at the remote terminal(s) of the transmission line will isolate the line.
However, the generator will continue to energize the transmission line creating a ‘local
island’ condition described previously. With one phase grounded, energizing from the
transformer low side can result in significant overvoltages (neutral shift) on the unfaulted
phases of the transmission line.
It is normally assumed that these overvoltages would equal 1.7 pu. However, studies
indicate that the voltages on the unfaulted phases of the transmission line can be even
higher than the 1.7 pu, particularly if the generation is large compared to the local load
that is islanded with the generator when the line-end breakers trip.
When induction machines are at or near full load, there is usually a considerable
amount of capacitance also in service to keep the delivered power factor near 1.0.
When the transmission line breakers open, the generator(s) are suddenly unloaded, and
there is generally enough capacitance to make the induction machines self-excite. This,
in combination with the line capacitance, will cause the voltage to increase above one
(pu) at the generator terminals and consequently on the transmission line.
When a synchronous generator is at full load, the excitation system creates a high
equivalent internal voltage, supplying the necessary vars to keep the overall delivered
power factor near 1.0 and assist with local voltage control. When the system breakers
open, unloading the generator, the high internal excitation will increase the voltage on
the generator terminals and on the transmission line.
If the generator rating is about the same as the local load on the islanded transmission
line, additional overvoltages above 1.7 pu would not be expected. Studies show that if
the generator rating is considerably smaller (1/3 or less) than the minimum local load,
then the voltage on the islanded system should quickly collapse.
9.1.4.1.4 Acceptable Solutions to Transmission Line Overvoltages
Overvoltages can potentially fail lightning arresters and other equipment connected to
an isolated transmission line. There are three acceptable solutions to resolve the
potential overvoltage problems resulting from the -YG transformer neutral shift
following a line to ground fault on the transmission line.
 High Side Grounding
 The best and preferred solution to eliminate the 1.7 pu overvoltages is to replace the
-YG transformer with a YG- or YG--YG transformer or install a separate ground
source on the transmission line. Wind turbine sites usually require a grounded
distribution or collection system, so the YG--YG transformer configuration is
necessary. See Figure 9. If the transformer configuration is changed or a separate
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 64 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

grounding transformer added, overcurrent protection similar to that described in

Section 9.1.4.1.1 can be used.
 Transfer Trip
 Transfer trip is installed from the circuit breaker(s) that clear the transmission line to
breakers that can isolate the generator. The breaker that is used for this separation
should be as fast as available. One of the line end breakers may even need delayed
trip to insure that it clears last, preventing islanded generator operation. Transfer trip
is usually necessary when the high side grounding solution is not feasible or for an
existing station with a delta connected high side transformer winding. Transfer trip
may still be required, even with high side grounding, to meet special protection
and/or remedial action requirements.
 Broken Delta 3V0 Voltage Detection Scheme
 It may be possible to use a zero sequence overvoltage (3V0-59) relay connected to
the high side of the -YG transformer to detect this ungrounded operation. The 3V0
protection scheme uses three voltage transformers on the primary side of the
transformer connected phase-to-ground. The voltage transformers must have a full
line-to-line voltage rating and must be capable of measuring voltages up to 1.9 pu
voltage continuously. The relay initiates a trip to eliminate the generator infeed on
the faulted line. BPA will review each application to determine the acceptability of
this scheme. If the 3V0 voltage detection scheme is selected, it may also require the
replacement of lightning arresters on the transmission line. The new arresters
require a higher rated voltage and higher temporary overvoltage capability properly
sized to withstand the expected overvoltage conditions. Other high-voltage line-to-
ground equipment that may be damaged by the overvoltage also needs to be
replaced.
 The 3V0 open delta scheme cannot protect for the case of overvoltages created
when a small generator is isolated in a ‘local island’ with a relatively large amount of
capacitance, such as a long line or a capacitor bank. Under and overvoltage relays
(27, 59) measuring each phase voltage may be used in conjunction with the 3V0
overvoltage relay to provide additional protection for these conditions.
If a transfer trip scheme or 3V0 scheme is selected to detect a ground on the
transmission side of the step-up transformer, it is also critical that the device trip a circuit
breaker on the low voltage or grounded side of the step-up transformer. Neutral shift on
the high side can limit the interrupting capability of high side devices, possibly causing
failure. The number of low side devices allowed to trip for a high side fault may be a
consideration. BPA reserves the right to require additional equipment, such as a low
side circuit breaker on the transformer, to minimize the number of devices tripped.
9.1.4.2 Synchronizing and Reclosing
The generator operator is responsible to synchronize the unit to the BPA Grid. See
Section 13.8. Circuit breakers under the control of the BPA, required to maintain system
integrity, shall not be used for synchronization. The BPA Dispatcher must give the
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 65 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

generator operator permission before a generator is synchronized to the BPA Grid. All
circuit breaker closing operations must automatically synchronize the generator to the
transmission system.
If the generator connects to an existing line, automatic reclosing schemes at the remote
terminals require modification to accommodate the generator interconnection. A hot
bus/dead line check is usually applied at one terminal before attempting an automatic
reclose. Hot bus/hot line with synchronism check supervision is necessary for
automatic reclosing at the other terminal.
9.1.4.3 Required Relay Settings for Generators Connected to the Transmission
Grid
Voltage and frequency relays used for protecting a generator and preventing an
unintentional island condition from persisting must meet the requirements listed below
to allow proper coordination with the power system. These relays are usually installed
at the generation site or at the interconnecting substation. See Section 9.1.2.2.4.
The ranges, settings, and delays below for both voltage and frequency relays are
understood by BPA to be well within the capabilities of small and large modern steam
turbines as well as other generators. BPA will evaluate proposed alternative
voltage/frequency settings based upon the impact on system performance and
reliability. The settings must comply with existing WECC and NERC requirements.
9.1.4.3.1 Voltage Relays (27, 59)
The over/under voltage relay setting/delays listed below are intended to insure that
generators trip when the connections to the power system have been interrupted,
preventing extended unintentional islanding. However, minimum time delays before
tripping are required to allow generators to ride through temporary low or high voltages
that result from system faults or other transient events. The table below shows these
minimum time delays and follow the voltage ride-through requirements of NERC PRC-
024.
In areas where under-voltage load shedding plans are in use it is critical that generators
do not trip prior to the completion of all automatic undervoltage load shedding. BPA
may require additional time delays to those shown below on generation applied in an
area which is part of an under-voltage load shedding plan.
Overvoltage (59)
Voltage Action
≥1.200 pu Instantaneous tripping allowed
≥1.175 pu 0.20 second minimum delay before unit tripping
≥1.150 pu 0.50 second minimum delay before unit tripping
≥1.100 pu 1.00 second minimum delay before unit tripping
<1.100 pu no over-voltage tripping allowed

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 66 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Undervoltage (27)
Voltage Action
<0.45 pu 0.15 second minimum delay before unit tripping
<0.65 pu 0.30 second minimum delay before unit tripping
<0.75 pu 2.00 second minimum delay before unit tripping
<0.90 pu 3.00 second minimum delay before unit tripping
≥0.90 pu no under-voltage tripping allowed
9.1.4.3.2 Frequency Relays (81)
If a generator facility includes a frequency relay (81) for under and/or overfrequency
protection, the frequency settings and time delays must coordinate with the
underfrequency load shedding plan. The frequency ranges and minimum setting/delay
requirements for over/under frequency relays (81), shown in Table 4, were established
by the WECC Coordinated Off-Nominal Frequency Load Shedding and Restoration
Program and the NWPP Enhanced Underfrequency Load Shedding Program and have
now been incorporated in NERC Standard PRC-024. The objective of these settings is
to use the machine capability to support the power system and prevent unnecessary
loss of system load during disturbances, and ultimately, to help prevent system
collapse. Generating resources must not trip off before load is shed by underfrequency
relays. A generator should not be tripped by frequency relays for frequencies between
59.4 Hz and 60.6 Hz. For frequencies equal to or below 57.0 Hz or above 61.7 Hz there
are no special requirements for tripping times. Table 4 specifies the under and
overfrequency limits and minimum time delays. The intent is to coordinate generator
tripping with load shedding schemes.
Table 4.— Under and Overfrequency Relay Settings and Operate Times

Underfrequency Overfrequency Minimum Time

Limits (Hz) Limits (Hz) Delay Setting

60.0 > f > 59.4 60.0 < f < 60.6 No generator tripping allowed

59.4 ≥ f > 58.4 60.6 ≤ f < 61.6 3 minutes

58.4 ≥ f > 57.8 61.6 ≤ f < 61.7 30 seconds

57.8 ≥ f > 57.3 7.5 seconds

57.3 ≥ f >57.0 45 cycles

f ≤ 57.0 f ≥ 61.7 Instantaneous trip

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 67 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

For generators that are not susceptible to damage for the frequency ranges listed above
(e.g. typical hydro units), tripping above 61.7 Hz and at or below 57.0 Hz, with no
intermediate steps is suggested. For steam turbines and similar units, relay(s) with
multiple frequency setpoints and discrete time delays could be used to realize the
settings above.
Often, large generation resources are directly connected to a substation at the
transmission level voltage and would not be part of the unintentional islanding condition
previously described in Section 9.1.2. For these generators, the 61.7 Hz trip level may
be raised and the 57.0 Hz trip level may be lowered. However, the minimum delays
listed above for all frequency deviations from 60 Hz must be maintained. For those
generators that may become part of an unintentional island, a maximum delay of 0.1
sec at 57.0 Hz and >61.7 Hz should be used. This will help insure that the generator
trips for the unintentional island condition.
Voltage and frequency relays must have a dropout time no greater than two cycles.
Frequency relays shall be solid state or microprocessor technology; electro-mechanical
relays used for this function are unacceptable.
9.1.4.4 Generator Relays
Except as specifically identified in these technical requirements, BPA does not have
requirements for the type of protection used for a generator. Generator protection is the
responsibility of the Requester. However, the protection should meet the general
requirements of NERC and WECC Standards. The level of redundancy and overlap of
protection schemes are determined by the Requester. BPA's primary concern with
generator protection is that the protection is available to isolate a generator fault from
the BPA Grid. Types of protection used to isolate a generator from the BPA Grid
include:

Percentage differential (87)

Phase balance current (46)

Phase sequence voltage (47)

Reverse power (32)

Thermal (49)

Loss of field (40)

Over-speed device (12)

Transformer sudden pressure (63)

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 68 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Voltage controlled/restrained o.c. (51-V)

Volts per Hertz (overexcitation) (24)

Neutral overvoltage (59-N)

Under-, overvoltage relays (27, 59)*

. Under-, overfrequency relays (81)*

*The settings of 27, 59 and 81 relays must be reviewed and approved by BPA.
9.1.5 Special Protection or Remedial Action Schemes
Connections to the BPA Grid may require special protection or Remedial Action
Schemes (RAS). BPA determines the RAS requirement during the interconnection
studies. All Wide Area Protection RAS schemes must be fully compliant with WECC
Class 1 requirements. WECC RAS criteria specifies that there be “no credible single
point of failure” that would keep the scheme from operating, which, in most cases,
requires geographically diverse communication paths. Redundancy or equivalent, as
determined by BPA, is required for all RAS. WECC compliant RAS schemes must also
be tested regularly by BPA personnel. BPA’s Wide Area Protection RAS target
functional test date is Annually, with a do not exceed date of two years. BPA’s Local
Area Protection RAS target functional test date is every 5 years with a do not exceed
date of 75 months. BPA reserves the right to alter the test frequency for all RAS as
rules change at WECC. BPA selects the timing of the RAS functional test during times
of low transmission system stress in the area protected by the RAS. The most common
special protection schemes include load shedding, line loss detection, and generator
tripping.
BPA staff will design the RAS schemes to ensure the design meets BPA and WECC
requirements.
The Requester is expected to provide sufficient rack space in their facilities to
accommodate additional equipment for relaying, telecommunications, special protection
or RAS Schemes needed to facilitate the interconnection.
9.1.5.1 Load Shedding
The proposed connection may require special load shedding schemes based upon BPA
Control Area requirements. These may include underfrequency load shedding,
undervoltage load shedding, or direct load tripping. The intent of load shedding is to
balance the load to the available generation resources, reduce the possibility of voltage
collapse, and to minimize the impact of a system disturbance. Underfrequency load
shedding generally includes a coordinated restoration plan, which is intended to
minimize frequency overshoot following a load shedding condition. Tripping levels,
restoration, and other details of load shedding schemes will be determined by BPA,

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 69 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

following NERC, WECC and NWPP criteria. Section 9.1.4.3 includes specific
requirements for generation tripping by voltage and frequency relays.
9.1.5.1.1 Direct Load Tripping
Direct load tripping may be required for large loads, typically in excess of 50 megawatts.
Direct load tripping is achieved with the use of redundant, dedicated transfer trip
schemes from the remedial action scheme controllers to the load. Communication
channels should be alternately routed. BPA Dispatchers will enable or disable direct
load tripping schemes depending upon system conditions.
9.1.5.1.2 Underfrequency Load Tripping
Underfrequency load tripping may be required to balance generation resources and
loads. Underfrequency load shedding must meet the following requirements:
 Electromechanical frequency relays (81) are not allowed.
 Frequency relays should utilize the definite time characteristic.
 Total operate time for underfrequency load tripping, including circuit breaker tripping,
shall not exceed 14 cycles.
 The frequency relay should be voltage supervised to prevent operation when the bus
voltage drops below 0.7 pu voltage.
 The frequency element (81) may be included as a part of a multifunction protective
relay.
 Frequency setting levels will be supplied by BPA.
 Load restoration settings will be supplied by BPA.
9.1.5.1.3 Undervoltage Load Tripping
Undervoltage load tripping may be required to prevent possible voltage collapse on loss
of major transmission paths or generation resources. Undervoltage load shedding must
meet the following requirements:
 Electromechanical voltage relays (27) are not allowed.
 Voltage relays should utilize the definite time characteristic.
 The voltage transformer source for the voltage relay (27) must be on the source side
of any automatic load tap changers or voltage regulators.
 A three-phase voltage element must be used to detect the undervoltage condition.
Averaging of the three phase voltages is not acceptable.
 The undervoltage element (27) may be included as a part of a multifunction
protective relay.
 The undervoltage relay should not operate for a single-phase low voltage nor for a
three phase low voltage below 0.5 pu.
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 70 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

 Total operate time for undervoltage load tripping shall be greater than expected fault
clearing times, typically 30 cycles or 0.5 seconds.
 Voltage setting levels and operate time delays will be supplied by BPA. Typical
settings may be in the range of 0.9 to 0.92 pu voltage with a delay of 3.5 to 8
seconds.
 Restoration settings will be determined by BPA.
9.1.5.2 Generation Tripping
New generation installations are required to participate in any Remedial Action Scheme
required to assure reliability of the transmission system. BPA uses RAS generator
tripping to maintain dynamic stability, voltage stability, and prevent transmission system
overload. BPA Dispatchers arm and disarm generator tripping schemes based upon
system conditions. RAS schemes must be fully redundant. BPA RAS controllers will
send generator reduction signals to the generators via redundant transfer trip channels.
If the new connection includes generation not previously part of the BPA Control Area,
the generation may also require additional special trip schemes and RAS arming
procedures. These schemes typically require a sequential events recorder as described
in Section 9.1.6.1
It is the plant operator's responsibility to develop and maintain procedures for RAS
arming of the individual generator units, and procedures for plant restoration following a
RAS action.
9.1.5.3 Transmission Line Loss Detection Logic
To sense an outage that would trigger RAS action, transmission lines may require Line
Loss detection Logic, (LLL). Line loss is typically sensed by the position of the circuit
breaker (52/b) auxiliary switch, isolating disconnect switch status, and also from the
circuit breaker trip bus. Substation bus configuration and the type of protective line
relaying will determine the exact requirements for implementing line loss detection logic.
Line loss sensing must be implemented at all terminals of the transmission line. Line
loss detection is sent to the appropriate BPA RAS controllers via redundant
telecommunications channels.
9.1.5.4 Other Special Protection and Control Schemes
The location of the POI, the amount of load or generation expected, and various other
system conditions may require special protection schemes. The need for and type of
schemes required are determined during the interconnection studies. For example,
RAS may be required for stability purposes or out-of-step tripping may be needed for
controlled system grid separations. Generator or load tripping may be required to
prevent line or equipment overloading. Special breaker tripping or closing schemes
such as staggered closing or point-on-wave closing may be necessary to reduce
switching transients. These special protection and control schemes may require stand-
alone relay systems or additional capabilities of particular substation equipment.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 71 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

9.1.5.5 Telecommunications Requirements for Special Protection or Remedial

Action Schemes
The special protection schemes described in this section require telecommunications
channels between the RAS controllers and the remote devices. The schemes will
require redundant remote devices, redundant channels, and in most cases,
geographically diverse communication paths. Specific details for telecommunications
channels are in Section 10 Telecommunications Requirements.
9.1.5.6 Remedial Action Scheme Design and Operational Requirements
Minimum requirements for a RAS scheme include the following:
 The RAS should be independent of all other control actions.
 The RAS will have a common architecture as much as possible with existing
schemes.
 The RAS will utilize standard alarms to identify operation actions and trouble.
 The RAS scheme must be designed with the ability to safely test the scheme.
 The RAS will be provided with the ability to arm/disarm via SCADA if a SCADA RTU
is available.
9.1.5.7 Future Modifications or Revisions to Special Protection or Remedial Action
Schemes
Any modification, change, or revision of an installed RAS scheme at a requestor’s site
must be reviewed by BPA before it is implemented. Proposed changes may also
require review by the WECC Remedial Action Scheme Subcommittee.
9.1.6 Disturbance Monitoring
Depending upon the type of connection, location, and operating voltage, disturbance
monitoring equipment may be required. The monitoring equipment is intended to record
system disturbances, identify possible protection scheme problems, and to provide
power quality measurements. Sequential event recorders, digital fault recorders, (DFR)
and dynamic disturbance recorders may be required. BPA may require remote access
to these recorders and relay systems at the POI. Upon request, and if available, BPA
will reciprocate by supplying the Requester with limited access to the corresponding
equipment at the remote BPA terminals. Refer to section 6.5 for Synchro-phaser (PMU)
requirements for generation facilities.
9.1.6.1 Sequential Event Recorders (SER)
A Sequential Event Recorder (SER) time tags and records digital events with one
millisecond time resolution. The SER uses a Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) clock
receiver for a timing reference. The SER must have sufficient channels to monitor relay
and RAS performance, circuit breaker positions, generator status, and other events
within the interconnecting substation or generator plant. SERs are required in all 500
kV substations. Generators that are part of a RAS must also have SERs. The SER
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 72 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

must have capability for remote communications to connect to BPA's SER master
station. At lower voltage substations, multifunction digital relay event recording
capability may serve as a possible substitute for a dedicated SER.
9.1.6.2 Digital Fault Recorders (DFR)
The Digital Fault Recorder (DFR) must have sufficient analog channels to monitor
critical currents and voltages. The DFR may also include digital channels to monitor
selected equipment status in the substation. The DFR must be time synchronized via a
GPS satellite clock. A stand-alone DFR is required in 500 kV substations. For lower
voltages, it may be acceptable to use multifunction digital relays that have oscillographic
capability; if so, the relay must be synchronized to a GPS clock.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 73 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

10. TELECOMMUNICATION DESIGN

10.1 Introduction
Telecommunications facilities shall be installed to fulfill the control, protection, operation,
dispatching, scheduling, and revenue metering requirements. They may be owned by
BPA, another utility or a third party. At a minimum, telecommunications facilities must
be compatible with, and have similar reliability and performance characteristics to, that
currently used for operation of the power system to which the new generation or loads
will be connected. Telecommunications facilities will be identified on the Project
Requirements Diagram (PRD) and will employ redundant equipment and geographically
diverse paths when required by WECC criteria. Depending on the performance and
reliability requirements of the control and metering systems to be supported, the
facilities may consist of any or all of the following:
10.2 Radio Systems
A radio system requires transmitters, receivers, telecommunication fault alarm
equipment, antennas, batteries, chargers, and multiplex equipment. It may also include
buildings, towers, emergency power systems, mountaintop repeater stations and their
associated land access rights, as needed to provide an unobstructed and reliable
telecommunications path. In order to meet power system reliability requirements, radio
path diversity, equipment redundancy or route redundancy may be required. These
measures protect against telecommunications outages caused by equipment failure or
atmospheric conditions. In the vicinity of wind turbines the use of radio systems may be
limited because of interference from the turbine blades.
10.3 Fiber Optic Systems
A fiber optic system requires light wave transmitters, receivers, telecommunication fault
alarm equipment, multiplex equipment, batteries, chargers, emergency power systems,
fiber optic cable (underground or overhead) and rights-of-way. Cable route redundancy
may be required in order to prevent telecommunications outages caused by cable
breaks.
Customer installations are not to adversely affect the BPA communication system. In
particular, the BPA sites on a fiber ring are not to be impacted by an outage or delayed
restoration of either customer fiber cable or customer electronics. The following
guidelines apply:
 No customer sites are to be added into BPA main rings.
 Subtending rings off BPA nodes to nodes that are owned and/or operated by foreign
utilities /other parties are not acceptable. Only non-SONET electrical connections
are allowed. SONET overhead is not to be passed between BPA and another entity.
Refer to STD-DT-000088 and STD-DT-000089 for additional design requirements,
including those pertaining to fiber cables, demarcation, and vault requirements.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 74 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

10.4 Wireline Facilities

A wireline facility (e.g., leased line) requires telecommunications cable (underground or
overhead), high-voltage isolation equipment, and rights-of-way. It may also include
multiplex equipment, emergency power systems, and batteries, depending on the
wireline technology employed. Cable route redundancy may be required in order to
prevent telecommunications outage. Redundancy of the wireline communications is
required when utilized to meet protection requirements per Table 2 or control
requirements in Section 9.
10.5 Voice Communications
10.5.1 Basic Requirements
If the generation or load facility is within the BPA Control Area and any type of
telemetering is required, then voice communications to the operator are also required.
Voice communications may be accomplished by the Public Switched Telephone
Network, or by BPA’s DATS system, or by Automatic Ringdown Trunks to each
appropriate control center. Any of these are sufficient for facilities 50 MW or less. If the
facility is not staffed with operators, alternative arrangements with a scheduling or
control agent may be made, subject to BPA approval.
10.5.2 Automatic Ringdown Trunks
Dedicated, direct automatic ringdown trunk (or equivalent) voice circuits between each
appropriate BPA control center and the operator of the generators or loads may be
required for:
 Generators or loads of 50 MW or greater, at continuously staffed locations,
 Eccentric (non-conforming) generators or loads
 Connected networks that include automatic generation tripping for BPA
Transmission system remedial action.
 A non-radial interconnection to another electric utility with a transfer capability in
either direction of 50 MW or greater.
10.5.3 Dial Automatic Telephone Switching – DATS
Note: An automatic trunk has an advantage if it is important for the Gen plant to also be
able to reach BPA Dispatch immediately to report conditions that are not alarmed via a
SCADA RTU. This is because the BPA Dispatch DATS number that the plant is asked
to call may be busy because the Dispatcher is talking to someone else on that DATS
line.
10.5.4 Independent Communications
Independent voice communications for coordination of system protection, control and
telecommunication maintenance activities between BPA and the generation facility or
POI should also be provided.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 75 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

10.6 Data Communications

Telecommunications for SCADA, RMS and telemetering must function at the full
performance level before and after any power system fault condition. Repair personnel
must restore service continuity immediately after the fault without the need for
intervention. The following requirements for telemetering of data are specified:
10.6.1 SCADA
For communication of SCADA information, one or more dedicated circuits are typically
required between a new facility and both BPA control center(s).
10.6.2 Automatic Generator Control (AGC) Interchange & Control Telemetering
One or more dedicated circuits are typically required between the new generation
facility and the appropriate BPA control center(s) for telemetering of AGC Interchange
and control information for operations and scheduling applications. If AGC services are
required, data will be sent to and from the appropriate BPA control center(s) using the
Inter-Control Center Communications Protocol (ICCP) over private control synchronous
communication channels operating at a minimum rate of 9600 baud.
10.6.3 General Telemetering
General telemetering of power and energy data (in kW, Kvar, kWh) and data acquisition
systems typically require one or more dedicated communication circuits. These circuits
link the new facility to the master computer receiving the data. Refer to BPA’s Revenue
and Interchange Metering Application, Standard Number STD-DC-000005, and to
Section 12 of this document.
10.6.4 Revenue Metering System (RMS)
Commercial dial-up telephone exchange line facilities or functional equivalent are
required for support of the MV-90™ compatible remote RMS equipment. The exchange
line facilities communicate with the MV-90™ compatible master computer at the Dittmer
Control Center. The circuit used for this purpose may also be shared with voice
communications and other dial-up data communications. Refer to BPA’s Revenue and
Interchange Metering Application, Standard Number STD-DC-000005, and to Section
12 of this document.
10.7 Telecommunications for Control and Protection
Telecommunications for control and protection must function at the full performance
level before, during and after any power system fault condition. The delivery of a false
trip or control signal, or the failure to deliver a valid trip signal is unacceptable. Active
telecommunication circuits for control and protection must not be tested, switched,
shorted, grounded or changed in any manner by any worker, unless prior arrangements
have been made through the BPA dispatcher.
10.7.1 Application on Main Grid Transmission
The highest telecommunications performance level as specified by the WECC is
99.95% availability. This level of performance is required on all protection circuits for
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 76 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

lines connected to the BPA Main Grid. This performance level is also required for RAS
circuits that must meet WECC compliance criteria. These circuits require totally
redundant schemes.
Availability is determined for the total path of the protective relaying circuit, from one
end of the transmission line to the other. Options for achieving these availability
requirements by utilizing two or more separate telecommunication methods, routes or
systems may be considered. When alternately routed telecommunications for
protective relaying schemes are required, a combination of two of these
telecommunications methods may be used to meet availability requirements.
10.7.2 Speed of Operation
Throughput operating times of the telecommunications system must not add
unnecessary delay to the clearing or operating times of protection or RAS. System
studies and WECC trip time requirements determine maximum permissible throughput
operating times of control schemes.
10.7.3 Equipment Compatibility
Protection systems and supporting telecommunications equipment installed at the
interconnecting facility must be functionally compatible or identical to the corresponding
equipment employed at the BPA facility. This functionality need not extend to
peripherals, such as signal counters and test switches that might be present on BPA’s
equipment. Teleprotection equipment employed by the Requester must be approved by
BPA prior to installation. At the time of the request for interconnection BPA will supply
the Requester with a list of acceptable, pre-qualified equipment. Should the Requester
choose to employ equipment not on this list, BPA reserves the right to test the
equipment for acceptable performance in the required control application. Equipment
that passes this testing can be approved by BPA for subsequent installations.
Teleprotection systems, including transfer trip, must be properly designed and tested to
demonstrate that they perform their intended functions. When applying digital
telecommunications systems to protection schemes, care must be taken ensure
equipment compatibility .
10.8 Telecommunications During Emergency Conditions
10.8.1 Emergency Conditions
Emergency telecommunications conditions may develop that affect telecommunications
equipment with or without directly affecting power transmission system facilities.
Examples of telecommunications emergencies include the following:
 Interruption of power to telecommunications repeater and relay stations
 Telecommunications equipment failure, whether minor or catastrophic
 Interruption or failure of commercial, public switched telephone network facilities or
services

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 77 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

 Damage to telecommunications facilities resulting from accident, acts of vandalism,

or natural causes
Equipment redundancy and telecommunications route redundancy can protect against
certain kinds of failure and telecommunications path interruption. A repair team
dedicated to the telecommunications of the interconnecting facility should be retained
along with an adequate supply of spare components.
10.8.2 Backup Equipment
Where commercial, public telephone network facilities or services support important
power system telecommunications, a backup strategy should always be developed by
the Requester to protect against interruption of such services. Backup methods could
include redundant services, self-healing services, multiple independent routes, carriers
and combinations of independent facilities such as wireline and cellular, fiber and radio,
etc. Backup telecommunications system equipment such as emergency standby power
generators with ample on-site fuel storage and reserve storage battery capacity must be
incorporated in critical telecommunications facilities. Backup equipment should also be
considered for certain non-critical telecommunications to provide continued operation of
telecommunications during interruption of transmission services.
10.8.3 Disaster Recovery
The Requester should have a disaster recovery plan in place for telecommunications
restoration that should be exercised periodically. The disaster recovery plan should
include the ability to provide equipment capable of bypassing or replacing entire
telecommunication stations or major apparatus until permanent repairs can be made.
10.8.4 Telecommunications Security
The operation of power system telecommunications facilities should be continuously
monitored at a central alarm point so that problems can be immediately reported,
diagnosed and repaired. Telecommunication sites and facilities should be secured
against unauthorized access.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 78 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

11. COMMISSIONING
11.1 Pre-energization Inspection and Testing
The Requester is responsible for the pre-energization and testing of their equipment.
For equipment that can impact the BPA Grid, the Requester shall develop an Inspection
and Test Plan for pre-energization and energization testing. BPA may request to review
the test plan prior to the test(s). BPA may require additional tests. The Requester shall
make available to BPA, upon request, all drawings, specifications, and test records of
the POI equipment. Also upon request BPA will make available to the Requester similar
documents describing the BPA POI equipment.
11.1.1 Installation and Commissioning Test Requirements for Metering
BPA requires meter testing prior to commissioning. Refer to Section 13.5 and the BPA
Metering Application Guide, STD-DC-000005, for additional information.

11.1.2 Installation and Commissioning Test Requirements for Protection Systems

Thorough commissioning or installation testing of the protection system(s) is an
important step for the installation of a new terminal or when changes to the protection
system are made. The protection system includes the protective relays, the circuit
breakers, instrument transformer inputs, and all other inputs and outputs associated
with the protection scheme. The actual protection equipment used will determine the
type and extent of commissioning tests required. Following are the minimum tests that
must be performed on protection schemes at the POI that could affect the BPA Grid.
11.1.2.1 Verify All Protective System Inputs
 Check for proper ratio, polarity, connections, accuracy, and appropriate grounding
on current and voltage transformer circuits.
 Verify that shorting of unused current transformer windings is proper and that
windings used for protection systems are not shorted.
 Verify that all other inputs to the protection system including battery supplies, circuit
breaker auxiliary switches, pilot channel inputs, etc. are correct.
11.1.2.2 Verify Protection System Settings
 Check protection system settings and programming.
 Perform acceptance or calibration tests of the protection system if it was not
performed previously.
 Verify that any changes in relay settings required for relay acceptance testing are
restored to the desired settings.
11.1.2.3 Protection System Drawings and Wiring
 Verify switchboard panel wiring is intact and matches drawings.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 79 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

 Verify interconnections between protection system and other devices are intact and
match drawings.
 Verify that the drawings are correct.
11.1.2.4 Verify All Protective System Outputs
 Verify that all trip outputs will trip intended trip coil(s).
 Verify that all close outputs will properly close the breaker(s).
 Verify proper relays key the appropriate pilot channel.
 Verify other outputs such as breaker failure initiate, special protection scheme
signals, reclose initiate and reclose block, relay alarms, event recorder points, and
any other relay outputs to other equipment.
11.1.2.5 Perform Trip or Other Operational Tests
 Assure correct operation of the overall protection systems.
 Test automatic reclosing.
11.1.2.6 Pilot Schemes
 Measure channel delays.
 Check for noise immunity.
 Check for proper settings, programming, etc.
 Check transmit and receive levels.
 If automatic channel switching or routing is utilized, check for proper relay operation
for alternate routing.
11.1.2.7 In Service, Load and Directional Tests
 Measure AC current and/or voltage magnitudes applied to the relay system.
 Measure AC current and/or voltage phase angles applied to the relay system.
 Test the relay system for proper directional operation when applicable.
11.1.2.8 Special Protection Scheme/Remedial Action Scheme Testing
 The RAS must be thoroughly tested prior to energization. This includes an end-to-
end test, functional test, or operational tests.
 If the RAS is a part of a WECC compliant RAS, an annual functional or operational
test is required.
Many utilities now use coordinated end-to-end tests to verify the overall operation of the
protection system and the pilot channel as part of their commissioning tests. This
method is acceptable to BPA.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 80 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Modifications to a protection system or RAS scheme also requires testing similar to that
listed above. The extent of testing and types of tests required depend upon the
changes made. Modifications include changes or additions to protection circuits,
changes or upgrades of protective relay firmware, and changes in protective relay logic
and/or programming. Many utilities also consider it good practice to perform various
levels of tests and calibrations following changes in protective relay settings. When
making protection system modifications, attention must be paid to any circuits that may
be inadvertently affected (e.g.) an auxiliary relay having multiple circuits tied to its
outputs.
11.2 Technical Operations Requirements
See Operations Requirements for Generation Interconnection, STD-N-000002.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 81 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

12. COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS & METERING REQUIREMENTS

12.1 Data Requirements For System Operation And Scheduling
All transmission arrangements for power schedules within, across, into or out of the
BPA Balancing Authority Area require metering and telemetering. Some generators or
loads that are in another balancing authority area, referred to as a ‘host’ balancing
authority area, also require metering and telemetering to the BPA Balancing Authority
Area. Transmission arrangements with loads, generators, or new transmission facilities
may include voltage control, and automatic generation control (AGC). The WECC
Reliability Coordinator for the region requires data to ensure the reliable operation of the
entire grid. The technical plan of service for interconnecting a load, generator, or new
transmission facility is shown on the BPA Project Requirements Diagram (PRD) and
includes the metering and telemetering equipment consistent with the transmission
contract, or balancing authority area services agreement. Such metering and
telemetering equipment may include options of being owned, operated, and maintained
by BPA or by other parties approved by BPA. See the BPA Metering Application Guide,
STD-DC-000005, for more information. Telecommunications requirements for data
collection are included in Section 10.
Revenue billing, system dispatching, operation, control, transmission scheduling and
power scheduling each have slightly different needs and requirements concerning
metering, telemetering, data acquisition, and control. Specific requirements also vary
depending upon whether the new connection is physically connected to the BPA Grid or
electronically connected via telemetering, placing the Project within the BPA Balancing
Authority Area.
12.2 Telemetering Data Requirements for BPA Control Centers
BPA requires telemetering data for the integration of new interconnections at adjacent
balancing authority area boundaries, as well as new generation within the BPA
Balancing Authority Area. This typically consists of the continuous telemetering of
active power quantities (in kW) and hourly transmission of the previous hour’s energy
(in kWh) from the Point Of Interconnection, (POI) to the appropriate BPA Control
Center. Table 5 lists the typical users of metering and telemetering data, and Tables 6
and 7 identify general metering and telemetering requirements for loads and generation.
Tables 8 through 11 identify typical additional data requirements.
12.2.1 Facilities Tied to the BPA Balancing Authority Area Boundary
Telemetering is required for all normally closed interconnections at a BPA Balancing
Authority Area boundary. For this case, telemetering of active power and energy (kW,
kWh) is required. There may also be a need for reactive power (Kvar, Kvarh)
information for purposes of billing based on power factor. High capacity
interconnections may require redundant metering and telemetering.
For connections that are to be normally open, or closed only for emergencies, BPA
determines telemetering needs on a case-by-case basis.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 82 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Table 5.— Typical Metering & Telemetering Data Usage

System or Quantity BPA Dispatching Transmission Revenue Billing

and Operations Scheduling
kW Yes No No1
kWh Yes5 Yes Yes4
Kvar Case-by-case No No
Kvarh Case-by-case5 No Yes
kV Yes6 No No
Load Size  3 MW  1 MW  1 kW
kW: 1 second or Hourly kWh data
other approved rate Last hour kWh sent retrieved daily
Data Sample Rate
compatible with each hour
NERC policy (RMS2 type system)

All normally closed All normally closed

Tie Capacity All ties
ties ties

AGC Yes3 Yes3 No

Operating,
Generation spinning, Actuals as
Actuals as delivered
Reserves regulating, & MW delivered
capability
Notes:
1. A kW reading for revenue billing may be required where special transmission
arrangements are necessary.

2. Direct Incoming Dial Public Switched Telephone Line or its equivalent required for
RMS.

3. All balancing authority area boundaries & customer connections providing ancillary
services.

4. Revenue Billing typically receives kWh via the MV-90 system.

5. Electric Industry Data Exchange (EIDE) data link is an alternative to acquire and
share kWh and other hourly data between utilities.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 83 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

6. kV system quantity not required for generation connected to a host utility distribution
system at or below 34.5 kV.

Table 6.— Metering, Telemetering and SCADA Data Requirements for Loads (L),
Including Station Service, At the Meter Point and inside BPA Balancing Authority
Area.
Quantity L < 1 MW L  1 MW

Yes
3 2
Billing Information [RMS ]; Hourly kWh & Kvarh If L 1 kW Yes

Hourly Estimate of Load

No Yes4
(by web, FAX, or phone)

kW Continuous Data No No6

Loss of Meter Potential Alarm No No6

Telemetering Equipment
No No6
Failure Alarm

Bi-Directional kW & Bi-Directional Kvar Meter5 Yes Yes

kV No No6

Kvar No No6

Redundant Meters No No6

Notes:
1. Hourly estimate of load must equal the sum of transmission schedules for delivered
power.
2. Hourly integration of Kvar may be used for reactive billing if Kvarh not available from
meters.
3. Direct Incoming Dial Public Switched Telephone Line or its equivalent required for
RMS.
4. Required from the scheduling agent to BPA.
5. BPA’s standard revenue meter is bi-directional for kW. Refer to BPA’s Revenue
and Interchange Metering standard for additional details.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 84 of 107

 Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

6. Required as determined by Technical Operations or Planning studies.

Table 7.— Metering, Telemetering and SCADA Data Requirements for Generation

System or Quantity G < 3 MW 3 < G < 50 MW 2 G  50 MW

Yes, if
Billing Information (RMS) Yes Yes
G 200 kW
Hourly Estimate of Generation 1
Conditional2 Yes Yes
(by web, FAX, or phone)
Hourly kWh (telemetered) No Yes Yes
kW Continuous Data10 No Yes Yes

Limit Variable Generation

No Yes7 Yes7
(See Section 12.2.6)
Loss Of Meter Potential No Yes Yes

MW & Mvar On Each Unit 3 Yes If integrated at

No No
230 kV or above

Bi-directional kW & Bi-

Yes Yes Yes
directional Kvar meter6

Redundant Meters (A & B) No Yes If G > 20 MW Yes

Gen-ICCP (Redundant Links) No No Yes or via SCADA8

kV, Kvar, Circuit Breaker Status No Yes9 Yes9

Notes:
1. Hourly estimate of generation must equal the sum of transmission schedules for
marketed power. It is required from the scheduling agent to BPA

2. Hourly estimate is not required if generation is serving local load only. It is required
if generation is being used as a marketing resource. Local load is defined as load
that is on the generator side of the meter.

3. Separate meters for each unit are required when generators per line are not
identical.
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 85 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

4. Required if BPA is the designated scheduling agent.

5. Station service metering is required for all generation, and station service
telemetering may be required. See Sections 12.2.3 and 12.2.4.

6. For generating resources with nameplate rating greater than 200 kW and located in
the BPA Balancing Authority Area, BPA revenue metering is required. Refer to the
BPA Metering Application Guide requirements for Generation Integration Metering.
For generating resources 200 kW and less connected to a Host Utility (i.e. not
directly connected to the BPA transmission grid), the Host Utility is responsible for
the metering requirements.

7. Wind generating plants with aggregate nameplate rating between 3 and 50 MW may
use BPA’s alternative Wind Limit communications (email and website) until the total
wind generation connected to a single BPA POI equals or exceeds 70 MW. See
Section 12.2.6.

8. Wind / variable generation may be allowed to use SCADA as determined by BPA.

Redundant links required as determined by Technical Operations.

9. If there is an electrical connection to BPA.

10. Continuous kW may be required if the capacity of a BPA-managed WECC path is

impacted, even if outside BPA’s BA and not connected to BPA’s system.

12.2.1.1 Loads Within BPA Balancing Authority Area

For loads with direct electrical connections to the BPA Balancing Authority Area, AGC
telemetering is not normally required. For interruptible loads, BPA determines
telemetering needs on a case-by-case basis. Significantly large and intermittent loads
(e.g. arc furnaces, irrigation pumps, electric draglines) may require an interface to the
BPA AGC system. Existing practices throughout North America usually require a
warning signal of pre-loading in order to assure that adequate generation reserves are
spinning before any sudden load change occurs. Table 6 summarizes metering,
telemetering, and SCADA requirements for loads based upon size.
12.2.1.2 Generation Within BPA Balancing Authority Area
For generation connected internal to the BPA Balancing Authority Area, telemetering is
required for generation facilities of aggregate output equaling or exceeding three MVA.
For this case, telemetering of real power and energy (kW, kWh), and reactive power
(Kvar, Kvarh) is normally required. BPA will determine telemetering needs on a case-
by-case basis for generation sites that remain below three MVA. Station service load
may require separate telemetering if it comes from a different balancing authority area.
Table 7 summarizes metering, telemetering and SCADA requirements for generation
within the BPA Balancing Authority Area.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 86 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Metering and telemetering for temporary generation installations (planned for less than
one year of service) will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Generation sites with an aggregate output equaling or exceeding 50 MVA may require a
direct link with BPA via a generation ICCP communication server or SCADA RTU in
order to send and receive data directly from the BPA AGC System. ICCP is the Inter-
Control Center Communications Protocol, defined by IEC 870-6 TASE.2 standard. See
Section 12.2.2.3 for additional details on the ICCP requirements.
WECC requires any generation plant over 200 MVA to have data sent to the Extra High
Voltage (EHV) Data Pool. BPA will provide the required data to the EHV Data Pool for
any plant over 200 MVA in the BPA Balancing Authority Area unless the generator is a
WECC member. In that case, the generator is responsible for reporting to the EHV
Data Pool directly or via an agent.
12.2.1.3 Jointly-owned Load or Generation
Telemetering for interconnection of shared or jointly owned loads or generation
commonly use dynamic signals. These signals are usually a calculated portion of an
actual metered value. The calculation may include adjustments for losses, changing
ratios of customer obligations or shares, or thresholds and limits. Two-way dynamic
signals are used when a customer request for MW change that can only be met by an
actual change in generation. In this case, a return signal is the official response to the
request and its integrated value is designated the official meter reading. Previous
integration intervals were typically one hour. Some types of dynamic signals may
require shorter integration intervals. The integration interval is determined by the type
of service provided consistent with BPA tariffs to properly account for transmission
usage. BPA uses the NERC recommended ‘accumulator method’ for accounting, not
the ‘rounding method’ for integrated values.
12.2.1.4 Generation in the BPA Balancing Authority Area Not Controlled by BPA
Telemetering is required for generation located internal to the BPA Balancing Authority
Area to account for the scheduling that is required to deliver that energy to the
appropriate host balancing authority area. The requirements are similar to interchange
telemetering requirements. In this case, GenICCP is typically not required by BPA.
12.2.2 Data Requirements for Balancing Authority Area Services
The following are the data requirements for balancing authority area services if the
requestor wishes to locate a load or generator in the BPA Balancing Authority Area.
12.2.2.1 Requirements for Interconnected Loads
Non-traditional sources are sometimes used for supplying ancillary services. If a load
provides regulating or contingency reserve services, data requirements for deployment
of the reserves will be similar to those applied to generating resources. To the extent
that a third party may externally supply regulating or contingency reserve services at the
BPA Balancing Authority Area interconnecting boundary, data requirements for their
deployment may be similar to those applied to generating resources.
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 87 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Technical discussions are necessary before the specific data requirements can be
determined. The following provides a brief overview of these requirements:
12.2.2.1.1 Supplemental AGC Services
If BPA is purchasing supplemental AGC services, AGC interface is required on a long-
term basis. Prior to BPA purchasing supplemental services, an investigation into the
capabilities, cost, and benefits of AGC control is required to determine the specific AGC
requirements. Most supplemental services are scheduled and delivered using real-time
dynamic signals, thus requiring telemetering.
12.2.2.2 Ancillary Services
Ancillary Services requirements are also driven by how the interconnected customer
chooses to meet these obligations. Either the Requester or the entity making the
transmission arrangements is responsible for meeting obligations for necessary
ancillary services associated with the interconnection. Most self-provided ancillary
services are scheduled and delivered using real-time dynamic signals, which require
telemetering. The responsible party may fulfill these obligations in any of the following
ways:
 Directly provide ancillary services by making resources available to BPA to deploy
 Contract with a third party to make resources available to BPA to deploy
 Contract with BPA to cover this ancillary services obligation
The Requester must demonstrate that the selected options are technically sound and
meet all relevant reliability policies and criteria of NERC, WECC and NWPP or their
successors as well as the BPA business practices.
Where a third party is providing ancillary services, the following data is required with a
sampling rate established in BPA’s business practices – typically four seconds between
samples for regulation and ten seconds for operating reserves:
 Net instantaneous active power transferred (in MW)
 Instantaneous reactive power (in Mvar) and total reactive power (Mvarh) transferred
 Operating reserve capability during the upcoming ten minutes
 kWh for most-recent hour
 Area Control Error (Station Control Error for Generating unit)
 Actual Scheduled Interchange
12.2.2.2.1 Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition System (SCADA)
Additional data may be required from loads such as steel rolling mills and wind tunnels,
in order to make generation control performance more predictable. Such additional
data may include, but not be limited to, precursor signals of expected load changes.
SCADA control may also be required. Specific requirements and needs are determined

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 88 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

for each load. This may require a separate SCADA remote terminal unit or it may
require data be added into an existing SCADA as determined by BPA.
12.2.2.3 Dispatch and Data Requirements for Interconnected Generation
Dispatch and Data requirements for balancing authority area services, such as
regulation or operating reserves, apply only to generation resources inside the BPA
Balancing Authority Area. For resources that are not part of BPA’s Balancing Authority
Area, the operator of the Host balancing authority area determines the data
requirements.
Inter-Control Center Communication Protocol (ICCP) is a standard communications
protocol for data exchange used by BPA and many other entities. ICCP is an
international standard for communications of real time data. The IEC 870-6 TASE.2
Standard defines the ICCP. The ICCP protocol is being revised to include certificate
authentication and encryption for security purposes. When this package is available, all
ICCP servers must be retrofitted. BPA has two systems that communicate via ICCP.
The first is GenICCP used for exchanging generation data between the BPA Control
Center and the Generation facility. It is an internal, point-to-point service. The second
system, called simply ICCP, was previously known as inter-utility data exchange. It is
used to exchange SCADA data between BPA and other utilities and balancing authority
area operators. This form of data exchange uses public switched telecommunications
services, not general internet communications.
For generation resources inside the BPA Balancing Authority Area, Ancillary Services,
(e.g. reserves) must be acquired. Provision for all Ancillary Services are specified in the
Interconnection Agreement (LGIA or SGIA) or Balancing Authority Area Services
Agreement (BAASA). BPA must specifically approve all arrangements for generators
intending to provide Ancillary Services to BPA. If the generator is capable of providing
Ancillary Services in excess of its obligation, then BPA may choose to contract with the
generator operator to provide additional Ancillary Services.
Technical discussions between BPA and generator developers are necessary before
the specific implementation requirements can be determined. For generation facilities
with a total capacity of 50 MVA or above, GenICCP will generally be required to transmit
automated Dispatch instructions and unit status,MW, Mvar and kV from the project,
among other data requirements. The AGC data to be passed over the data link may
include some or all of the data quantities listed in Tables 8 and 9. For each project a
detailed data requirements list with definitions will be provided during the design phase
of the interconnection of the project. Actual generator specific data requirements are
developed after an Interconnection Agreement or Balancing Authority Area Services
Agreement is signed.
All interconnected generation projects are required to implement and maintain
automatic voltage control on a voltage schedule provided by BPA Dispatchers. The
status and availability of each auxiliary reactive support device is also required.
Generation facilities are required to receive automated Dispatch instructions and
provide other status and data as needed for the operation of the transmission system.
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 89 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

12.2.2.4 Ancillary Services

If BPA is purchasing ancillary services from the generation facility, AGC control of the
generator capability is required on a long-term basis. Prior to purchasing AGC services,
a capabilities, cost, and benefit investigation as to the AGC control capabilities of the
generation facility is required to determine the specific AGC requirements.
Requirements for Ancillary Services are also driven by how the generator operator or
the purchaser chooses to meet the reserve obligations of the generation facility, as
described below. Either the generation operator or the entity making the transmission
arrangements is liable for the reserve obligations associated with the operation of the
generation facility consistent with the BPA Tariff. Generation marketed as interruptible
power is treated separately under special provisions and guidelines by the WECC and
BPA. The responsible party may fulfill these obligations in any of the following ways:
 Make these reserves available to BPA from the generating facility
 Make these reserves available to BPA from another one of their generation
resources
 Contract with another generator operator to make these reserves available to BPA
on their behalf
 Contract with BPA to cover this reserve obligation
12.2.2.4.1 Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)
Requirements
New substations including those for generation facilities may require BPA SCADA
control and status indication of the power circuit breakers and associated isolating
switches used to connect with BPA. SCADA indication of real and reactive power flows
and voltage levels are also required. If the connection is made directly to a host utility in
BPA’s Balancing Authority, SCADA control and status indication requirements shall be
determined by BPA with consultation with the Host utility on division of responsibilities.
SCADA control of breakers and isolating switches that are located at other than the
generating facility are not normally required, although status and indication may be
necessary for system security purposes. Section 10 discusses telecommunications
requirements for SCADA systems.
12.2.2.4.2 GenICCP Installation
A GenICCP installation may be required for generation facilities greater than 50 MVA
and is required for generation facilities over 200 MVA. If BPA is not providing any
ancillary services, a GenICCP configuration with single server and single router are
acceptable. If BPA is providing ancillary services, a primary server and back up server
must be installed. If BPA is doing automatic generation control, redundant servers and
redundant routers are required. The GenICCP installation at the generating facility
provides capability to bring additional data from the generator(s) to the BPA control
centers. Table 9 shows the typical GenICCP data required. A GenICCP installation or
equivalent SCADA RTU capabilities is required for Variable (VER) generation facilities
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 90 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

(Wind) greater than 50 MVA. Tables 10 and 11 show the typical data and dispatch
requirements.
Table 8.— Automatic Generation Control (AGC) Quantities
Generation Plant to BPA Control Center(s):
1. Plant in BPA AGC mode / local mode 1
2. Net instantaneous power output (MW), unit MW output for plants >200 MW
3. Plant output attributed to natural governor response (MW)
4. Plant ramp rate capability – maximum raise and lower
Plant jerk rate capability (rate of change of ramp rate) – maximum raise and
5.
lower
6. Regulating reserve capability - during next 10-minutes
7. Spinning reserve capability - during next 10-minutes
8. Operating reserve capability - during next 10-minutes
9. Maximum capability - normal conditions
10. Maximum capability - power system emergency conditions
11. Minimum generation capability
12. Unit power system stabilizer and automatic voltage regulation status

Unit status - defined below for each generator unit in numerical order.
 Out of Service - unit not available for use on 10 minutes notice.
 Standby Mode - unit available for use on 10 minutes notice.
13.  Standby Mode - unit available for use within 60 minutes
 On-line / Not on AGC
 On-line / On AGC
 On-line / Condensing
14. Total Mvar output, unit Mvar output for plants >200 MW
15. Total instantaneous maximum Mvar capacity boost or each POI voltage level
16. Total maximum Mvar capacity boost or each POI voltage level
17. Total instantaneous maximum Mvar capacity buck or each POI voltage level
18. Total maximum Mvar capacity buck
19. Plant in BPA kV mode / local kV mode 2
20. Acknowledge Limit Wind Generation
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 91 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Table 9.— Automatic Generation Control (AGC) Quantities

BPA Control Center(s) to Generation Plant:
Generation request at rated frequency set point - AGC-requested power output
1. level in MW for the following look-ahead time horizons: 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 30
minutes.
2. Generation requested rate of response.
3. Amount of regulating reserve to carry.
Generation base point - The generation level in MW at which BPA expects to be
4.
operating the plant at the end of the ramp.
5. Plant MW control mode - regulating, base load, standby, or off control
6. BPA operating mode indication to the plant – normal, assist, emergency
7. Bus voltage schedule(s) in kV and actual measurement(s)
8. BPA AGC control center identifier - Dittmer or Munroe Control Center
BPA Mvar Control Mode – coordinated voltage schedule, nominal voltage
9.
schedule
10. Low Reserves Notification
11. Limit Wind Generation - command
12. Limit Wind Generation - MW amount

Notes:
1. When plant is in BPA AGC mode, the BPA AGC system is enabled at the plant. The
plant is controlling power output to meet the generation request and generation rate
of response (MW/minute) originating from BPA. When the plant is in local mode the
BPA AGC system is disabled. The plant is not controlling its power output to meet
generation request and generation rate of response originating from BPA.

2. When plant is in BPA kV mode, the coordinated var control system is enabled at the
plant. The plant is controlling reactive power output to meet the voltage schedule
originating from BPA. When the plant is in local kV mode, the BPA coordinated var
control system is disabled at the plant but automatic voltage regulators must remain
in service. The plant is controlling its reactive power output to meet the nominal
voltage schedule originating from BPA.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 92 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Table 10.— Generation Data Requirements for VERs (Wind)

Generation Plant to BPA Control Center(s):

1. Net instantaneous power output (MW) (BPA meter point)

2. Net instantaneous Mvar output (BPA meter point)

3. Instantaneous Mvar output of each collector line

4. Instantaneous Mvar output of each reactive element (dynamic and switched)

5. Voltage of each bus (kV) High side and each collector bus

6. Available generation capability (MW)1

7. Plant operation limit (MW)2

Plant high speed cutout (MW – wind only) (sum of all units out due to high
8.
winds)

9. Automatic voltage control status (on/off), each controller

10. Automatic voltage mode status (voltage/power factor), each controller

11. Total plant Mvar capacity boost (Mvar)3

12. Total plant Mvar capacity buck (Mvar)3

13. Status of each generation and reactive element Breaker or switcher

14. Status of each high side Breaker between generation and BPA system

15. Acknowledge Limit Wind Generation

Notes:
1. Available generation capability is sum of all units in service available to generate
times the MW rated capability of each unit.
2. Plant operational limit is the MW amount the plant is limited to at any time less than
the sum of the units available for generation (by BPA Dispatch or plant operator).
3. Total all units in service, available, net at POI.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 93 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

Table 11.— Generation Control and Data Requirements for VERs

BPA Control Center(s) to Generation Plant:

1. Low Reserves Notification

2. Limit Wind Generation – command (limit level 1, 2, etc)

3. Limit Wind Generation - MW amount

4. Bus voltage schedule(s) in kV (future requirement for secondary voltage control)

5. Dispatch trip control – each generation breaker

6. Ramp limit initiated (future)

7. Frequency controller Dispatch initiated (future)

12.2.3 Generation and Network Interchange Scheduling Requirements

Any new load or generation being integrated into the BPA Grid must adhere to the
scheduling requirements of the prevailing tariff under which it is taking transmission or
balancing authority area service from BPA. Customers may be required to provide BPA
Transmission Scheduling with an estimate of the their hourly load, hourly generation
schedules, and/or net hourly interchange transactions. These estimates will be used for
both pre-scheduling and planning purposes. BPA will require customers to provide
these estimates as necessary in order for BPA to manage the load or resource balance
within the BPA Control Area and to determine usage of the BPA Grid.
In the case of new transmission facilities, scheduling and accounting procedures are
needed if the facility is part of an interface between the BPA Balancing Authority Area
and another balancing authority area. This scheduling and accounting of interchange
between two balancing authority areas normally requires telemetered data from the POI
to the control centers of the balancing authority area operators. This data is termed
interchange metering and telemetering by BPA and includes kW and kWh quantities.
BPA requires that all balancing authority area transactions be pre-scheduled for each
hour using the normal scheduling procedures. The end-of-hour actual interchange must
be conveyed each hour to the BPA Control Center(s). This can be accomplished
through the use of telemetering or data link.
When the new interconnection represents a shared or jointly owned interface to BPA, or
a split resource between the balancing authority area and any other, then a calculated
allocation is usually required to divide up the total metered interchange. This non-
physical interface is accomplished by dynamic signal. A two-way dynamic signal is
required when a combined request and response interface is used. An example is
supplemental AGC services. A one-way dynamic signal is required when a response
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 94 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

(or following) interface is used. Moving a balancing authority area boundary is an

example of this requirement.
12.2.3.1 Generation Metering Requirements
Generation metering usually consists of bi-directional meters and related
communications systems providing active power (in kW) and energy (in kWh) from the
POI. Active power is telemetered on a continuous basis for AGC and hourly energy is
sent each hour to the balancing authority area accounting for BPA. All generation
projects of aggregate size equaling or exceeding one MW require hourly pre-
scheduling. BPA may also require indication of available spinning reserve and
controlled reserves, both in MW.
12.2.3.2 Interchange Metering Requirements
Interchange telemetering consists of bi-directional meters and related
telecommunications systems providing kW and kWh at or near the POI. The kW
measurement is telemetered on a continuous basis for AGC and hourly kWh is sent
each hour to the control center. (Table 7 summarizes the requirements). Interchange
telemetering accuracy and calibration requirements are identical with those stated in
Section 13.10.
Effective telemetering requires real-time knowledge of the quality of measurement.
Associated with the telemetering signal are various indications of this quality. Analog
telemetering is commonly accompanied with squelch and telemetering carrier fail
alarms. A loss of meter potential or meter potential phase unbalance should trigger a
telemetering carrier failure alarm. Digital telemetering has equivalent signal failure
alarms. The metering equipment must also be monitored and alarmed in the
telemetering signal. Typical alarms include but are not limited to:
 Loss of meter potential
 Loss of telemetering signal
 Loss of meter potential signal
12.2.3.2.1 Generation Parasitic Load, Station Service and Start-Up
Metering
BPA requires generation projects to self-supply parasitic loads when generating. When
not generating, the generation plant station service load may be served by backfeed
over the transmission line that interconnects BPA and the generation plant. Generation
plant station service and start-up loads must be properly and accurately metered. At a
minimum, bi-directional revenue metering and extended range current transformers are
required. In addition, separate dedicated instrument transformers and revenue meters
may be required to measure station service and start-up loads. It is preferred to meter
generation by locating bi-directional revenue meters and revenue accuracy current
transformers such that accurate station service can also be metered. Then metering of
net generation, start-up power and station service can be accomplished from a single
location. However, if this is not possible, then metering with demand interval data
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 95 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

recording (MV90 compatible) revenue meters and communications is required at the

station service transformer(s).
12.2.4 Revenue and Interchange Metering System
All facilities capable of exchanging at least 1 kW of active power and directly connected
to the BPA transmission grid require BPA qualified metering for revenue and/or
interchange Energy data recording is required for BPA’s billing and scheduling
functions. Revenue metering includes energy (kWh) and reactive power (Kvarh)
produced by revenue meters and recorded on a demand interval basis. Interchange
metering includes bi-directional energy and reactive data as well as special telemetering
requirements for scheduling purposes. The metering shall be located to measure the
net power at the POI to and from the BPA Grid.
The revenue metering system (RMS) includes a remote metering system to record the
hourly kWh data. The hourly kWh data is downloaded from the metering recorder on a
daily basis over voice-grade telephone lines. All recorders must be fully compatible with
the MV-90™ protocol. Upon request, MV-90, or functional equivalent data is available to
the customer or its agent.
12.2.4.1 Requirements for Revenue and Interchange Metering
Refer to BPA’s Metering Application Guide, Standard Number STD-DC-000005. Three-
element, three-phase, four-wire meters shall be used on grounded power systems.
Two-element, three-phase, three-wire meters can be used on balanced, ungrounded
power systems. Both revenue metering and interchange metering shall be bi-directional
to record both active and reactive power flows to or from the POI. Metering packages
include a kWh recording device compatible with the BPA RMS or BPA scheduling
system, as applicable.
Tables 6 and 7 identify revenue metering requirements. Section 10.6.4 discusses
telecommunications requirements for the RMS system.
12.2.5 Calibration of Metering, Telemetering, and Data Facilities
12.2.5.1 Calibration of Revenue and Interchange Metering
Revenue and interchange metering must be calibrated at least every two years. More
frequent calibration intervals may be negotiated. All parties to the transmission
interconnection agreement may witness the calibration.
12.2.5.2 SCADA and ICCP Data
SCADA and ICCP data shall be calibrated every two years as a minimum or more often
if significant errors occur affecting the state estimator results. All parties to the
transmission interconnection agreement may witness the calibration.
12.2.6 Variable Generation Remote Dispatch and Data Requirements
The requirements below are described with respect to Wind Generation; however, the
same rules may apply to Solar Generation. Other types of variable generation sources
will be evaluated, with the expectation that these requirements will apply.
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 96 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

12.2.6.1 Limit Wind Generation Output

Wind generation is a variable resource, inherently difficult to forecast. Therefore, all
ground-based (on-shore or off-shore) wind generation projects with aggregate
nameplate capacity > 3MW within the BPA BAA are required to participate in BPA’s
”Limit Wind Generation” automated dispatch operational scheme to limit overgeneration
and to cut schedules for undergeneration when BPA approaches its Balancing
Reserves limit.
For projects with aggregate nameplate capacity between 3 and 50 MW, the designated
Generator Operator (GOp) responsible for control of the wind project generation is
required to either receive automated email messages and obtain access to BPA’s web-
based software application, or receive discrete and analog signals via a BPA installed
SCADA RTU at the project site. BPA’s web-based software application is available to
the generation owner and GOp.
Wind generation projects with aggregate nameplate capacity 50 MW and greater, and
all wind generation regardless of size that interconnect at a common BPA POI with 70
MW or greater aggregate wind generation shall be required to connect GenICCP at the
designated Generation Operator control center or receive discrete and analog signals
directly via a BPA installed SCADA RTU at the project site.
Regardless of the communications technology employed, the BPA Dispatcher will issue
automated Dispatch instructions to the wind project operator during those times when
generation output must be limited, and the project operator will be responsible to limit
total plant output to the limit issued by BPA Dispatch. See Section 12.2.3.
12.2.6.2 Wind Generation Controls with Automated Dispatch
New wind projects (starting construction after 6/1/2011) greater than 50 MW are
required to have the capability to respond to over-frequency and under-frequency
(governor type) control and separate ramp rate control. BPA policies will be developed
to address older projects when the need is determined.
As more wind and other forms of variable, non-dispatchable generation connect to the
BPA system, the amount of dispatchable generation providing frequency response for
system events is reduced. In the future, BPA may need to include wind generation to
provide frequency response during system situations where wind is to provide a majority
of the generation. This is most likely to occur at high wind-low load times at night.
Providing wind generation feathering to reduce over-frequency, or when enabled to
feather wind generation in advance to provide an ability to increase generation for an
under-frequency event may be warranted as the least cost or preferred option to
address this operational issue.
Likewise, wind ramps rates may be necessary as the wind fleet continues to expand to
address severe ramps impacting balancing service capability or the AGC generating
units. See section 12.2.2.3 for interface requirements. When BPA system conditions
warrant, BPA will announce a program to install automated dispatch and work with the
wind fleet to implement either of these systems.
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 97 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

12.2.6.3 Wind Generation Forecasting Data Requirements

Wind meteorological generation data is required to forecast the wind fleet impacts on
the BPA transmission system and hydro system operations. BPA wind generation
forecasting will provide real-time situational awareness for both transmission Dispatch
and BPA Hydro Duty Scheduling including unit commitments of the Federal Columbia
River Generation System (FCRPS). This will help optimize the river system making it
easier for BPA to meet its non-power FCRPS objectives, including flood control, Clean
Water Act, and fisheries programs among others. Additional goals are wind ramp
predictions, support of smart grid and energy storage.
To support these efforts, BPA has:
 Installed 14 new meteorological sites (6 existing) to support real-time weather
observation and share the data with the public.
 Developed an in-house, wind generation forecasting system.
 Is working with commercial wind generation forecasting subscription services.
 Implementing displays and situational awareness tools for operators to track wind
generation forecasts and impacts on the transmission systems.
 Will publicly post BPA aggregated fleet level wind generation forecast for wind
project and public usage.
12.2.6.3.1 Plant Operational Data
Each wind generation plant should provide the Number of turbines and total rated
capacity installed (MW). For each turbine:
 model/type, nameplate capacity
 turbine identification number (string/collector line if available)
 individual turbine coordinates (Latitude/Longitude)
Each wind generation project will be required to provide via BPA telemetry equipment
(SCADA RTU or GenICCP) the following:
 Plant output (MW via BPA metering, along with Mvar and kV)
 Available capacity (MW, updated within 10 minutes of any change in the turbine
available to generate)
 High wind cutout (MW total)
 Plant control limit (MW, when output of plant is limited)
Planned outages for more than routine turbine maintenance or impacting a significant
portion of the plant to be emailed to Gen Dispatcher desk with dates, capacity
limitations and duration.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 98 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

12.2.6.3.2 Plant Meteorological Data via web service

Each wind generation project will provide data from the wind plant’s weather
anemometers - to be posted or refreshed every minute (one minute averages
preferred). Provide anemometer coordinates (Latitude/Longitude/elevation). Data to
include:
 Wind speed (mph, integer)
 Wind direction (degrees of north, integer)
 Temperature (degrees F, integer)
 Humidity (relative %, integer)
 Pressure (inches of Mercury, inHg, three significant figures, xx.xxx)
BPA requires designated turbines (one per cluster) Meteorological Data to be provided.
BPA will collaborate with the project owner on selection of turbines representative of the
clusters (typical cluster will be a five blade diameter square with a center turbine
designated) - to be posted or refreshed every ten (10) minutes (ten minute averages
preferred). Provide selected turbine number and coordinates (Latitude/Longitude).
Data to include:
 Wind speed (mph, integer)
 Wind direction (degrees of north, integer)
 Temperature (degrees F, integer)
 Humidity (relative %, integer)
 Pressure (inches of Mercury, inHg, three significant figures, xx.xxx)
Plant meteorological data is to be posted to a Web service (Business Intelligence tool
such as Microsoft Web Services, Windows Communication Foundation, BizTalk or an
equivalent tool for Enterprise-level data transfer). The tool cannot be FTP-based. The
wind generator must provide a Web Services Description Language (WSDL) to BPA
that defines the following:
 The XML schema used to send the data
 Methods that will be used
 Variables/arguments that will be passed in those methods
All wind generators must be vetted through the BPA Cyber Security approval process.
Additional BPA requirements for secure communication include:
 The wind generator’s web service must have a digital SSL certificate signed by an
external 3rd party per industry best practices (ie, Verisign, GeoTrust, etc).
 A password-based or similar means of credential authentication must be employed.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 99 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

 The service should only allow specific IP addresses on the remote end to pull or
push data.
12.2.6.3.3 Historical data (last 2 years, or as available)
Data to include:
 Available Capacity (hourly average)
 Plant meteorological data (10 minute average preferred)
 Anemometer coordinates (Latitude/Longitude/height)
 Wind speed (mph, integer)
 Wind direction (degrees of north, integer)
 Temperature (degrees F, integer)
 Humidity (relative %, integer)
 Pressure (inches of Mercury, in Hg, three significant figures, xx.xxx)
Data is to be emailed to BPA in excel or mutually acceptable format.
12.3 Voltage Schedules
Voltage schedules are necessary, in order to maintain optimal voltage profiles across
the transmission system. Optimal profiles minimize transmission of reactive power, and
preserve flexibility in use of reactive-power control facilities. To this end, a voltage
schedule will be mutually developed between BPA and the Requester, which will be
coordinated via time changes developed by the NWPP for such coordination purposes.
BPA maintains voltages according to the ANSI Standard C84.1. This allows for
variances of ±5% from nominal for all voltage levels except the 500 kV system. The
500 kV system has a nominal voltage of 525 kV with a variance from 500 kV to 550 kV.
Equipment connected to the BPA Grid must be compatible with this range of operation.
Deviations from the voltage schedule may be ordered by the BPA Dispatcher. Usually
the deviations are due to load changes occurring earlier than the NWPP coordinated
schedule.
12.4 Reactive Power
Each entity shall provide for its own reactive power requirements, at both leading and
lagging power factors unless otherwise specified by BPA. BPA generally requires
customers to minimize exchange of reactive power with BPA’s system, especially under
peak load conditions. This can be accomplished by installing equipment to allow
matching of internal supply and demand of reactive power. Closely coupled generators
may also receive telemetered voltage schedules or receive the voltage schedule
through ICCP to minimize var conflict. (See Section 12.1) Minimizing flow of reactive
power on a given line can increase its transfer capability and reduce its losses.
Reactive flows at interchange points between control areas should be kept at a
minimum as per the WECC Minimum Operating Reliability Criteria.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 100 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

12.5 Power System Disturbances and Emergency Conditions

12.5.1 System Frequency During Disturbances
Power system disturbances initiated by system events such as faults and forced
equipment outages, expose the system to oscillations in voltage and frequency. It is
important that lines not directly tripped due to the disturbance remain in service for
dynamic oscillations that are stable and damped.
Large-scale blackouts can result from the excessive loss of generation, outage of a
major transmission facility, or rejection of load during a disturbance. In order to prevent
such events, under frequency load shedding (UFLS) has been implemented throughout
WECC, including the Pacific Northwest. When system frequency declines, discrete
blocks of load are automatically interrupted by frequency relays, with most of the
interruptions initiated between 59.3 Hz and 58.6 Hz. This load shedding scheme
attempts to stabilize the system by balancing the generation and load. It is important
that lines and generators remain connected to the transmission system during
frequency excursions, both to limit the amount of load shedding required and to help the
system avoid a complete collapse. The limited ability of some generators to withstand
off-nominal frequency operation has been taken into account in the development of
frequency relay setting delays provided in Section 9.
12.5.2 Voltages During Disturbances
In order to prevent voltage collapse in certain areas of the Pacific Northwest,
undervoltage load shedding (UVLS) has also been implemented. Most of the load
interruptions will occur automatically near 0.9 per unit voltage after delays ranging from
3.5 to 8.0 seconds. Depending on the type and location of any new load, the Requester
may be required to participate in this scheme. The undervoltage relay settings in
Section 9 shall coordinate with the undervoltage load shedding program.
12.5.3 Local Islands
For those generators interconnected to the BPA Grid through a tapped transmission
line, a local island is created when the breakers at the ends of the transmission line
open. This leaves the generator and any other loads that also are tapped off this line
isolated from the power system. Delayed fault clearing, overvoltage, ferroresonance,
extended undervoltages, etc., can result from this local island condition and shall not be
allowed to persist. Special relays and relay settings are often required to rapidly
disconnect the generator(s) in the local island. See Section 9.1.2.2.4.
12.5.4 Responsibilities During Emergency Conditions
Each balancing authority area operator is ultimately responsible for maintaining system
frequency within balancing authority area boundaries. All emergency operation
involving the BPA transmission system must be coordinated with the BPA Dispatcher.
Each party, as appropriate, must participate in any local or regional remedial action
schemes. All loads or generators tripped by underfrequency or undervoltage action
must not be restored without the balancing authority area operator’s permission. All
schedule cuts need to be promptly coordinated with the appropriate balancing authority
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 101 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

area operator. All parties have the responsibility for clear communications and to report
promptly any suspected problems affecting others.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 102 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

13. MAINTENANCE
13.1 Outage Planning
The Requestor’s facilities may be part of or connected to key transmission lines that
must be kept in service as much as possible. They may be removed from service only
after power flow studies, in accordance with WECC requirements, indicate that system
reliability will not be degraded below acceptable levels. The entity responsible for
operating such transmission line(s) shall promptly notify other affected control areas,
per the WECC Procedure for Coordination of Scheduled Outages and Notification of
Forced Outages, ”Dispatcher/System Operator Handbook” when removing such
facilities from and returning them back to service.
The Requester shall not energize any de-energized BPA equipment unless the BPA
Dispatcher specifically approves the energization. Where the connection is to a radial
load the circuit may be interrupted and reclosed by BPA. In cases where the
interconnection taps or breaks an existing BPA line, an auto isolation scheme may be
required to maintain service continuity of the BPA line. If the interconnected facilities
are networked or looped back to the BPA Grid or where generation resources are
present, a switching device must open to eliminate fault contributions or neutral shifts.
Once open, the device must not reclose until approved by the BPA Dispatcher or as
specified in the interconnection agreement.
13.2 Switchable Devices
Devices frequently switched to regulate transmission voltage and reactive power shall
be switchable without de-energizing other facilities. Switches designed for
sectionalizing, loop switching, or line tripping shall be capable of performing their duty
under heavy load and maximum operating voltage conditions.
13.3 Frequency and Duration of Outages
Planned outages of significant system equipment shall be coordinated with all affected
parties to minimize their impact on the remaining system. The operator of the
Requester’s facilities should respond promptly to automatic and forced outages in order
to mitigate any impacts on the remaining system, and in a manner that treats all
interruptions with the same priority.
13.4 Inspection, Test, Calibration and Maintenance
Transmission elements (e.g. lines, line rights of way, transformers, circuit breakers,
control and protection equipment, metering, and telecommunications) that are part of
the proposed connection and could affect the reliability of the BPA Grid need to be
inspected and maintained in conformance with regional standards. The Requester has
full responsibility for the inspection, testing, calibration, and maintenance of their
equipment, up to the location of change of ownership or POI. Transmission
Maintenance and Inspection Plan (TMIP) requirements are a portion of the WECC
Reliability Management System for Transmission. The Requester or utility may be
required by WECC to annually certify that it has developed, documented, and
implemented an adequate TMIP.
STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 103 of 107
Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

13.4.1 Summary of the WECC Transmission Maintenance and Inspection Plan

(TMIP)
WECC requires that member utilities prepare a written description of, and update as
necessary, its annual TMIP. The TMIP shall provide descriptions of the various
maintenance activities, schedules and condition triggers for performing the
maintenance, and samples of any checklist, forms, or reports used for maintenance
activities. The TMIP may be performance-based, time-based, or both, as may be
appropriate. The TMIP shall address each of the following:
 Include the interval schedule (e.g., every two years) for any time-based maintenance
activities and a description of conditions that will initiate any performance-based
activities.
 Describe the maintenance and inspection methods including specific details for each
activity or component listed below.
 Provide any checklists, forms, or reports used for maintenance activities.
 Where appropriate, provide criteria to be used to assess the condition of a
transmission facility or component.
 Where appropriate, specify condition assessment criteria and the requisite response
to each condition as may be appropriate for each specific type of component or
feature of the transmission facilities.
13.4.2 Transmission Line Maintenance
The TMIP shall, at a minimum, describe the maintenance practices for all applicable
transmission line activities, including the following:
 Patrols and inspections
 Vegetation management and right-of-way maintenance
 Contamination control (e.g. insulator washing)
13.4.3 Station Maintenance
The TMIP shall describe the maintenance practices for all applicable station facilities:
 Switchgear, i.e. circuit breakers, circuit switchers, disconnect switches
 Power transformers, shunt reactors, phase-shifting transformers, station service
transformers, and instrument transformers
 Reactive devices (including, but not limited to, shunt capacitors, series capacitors,
synchronous condensers, series reactors, and current limiting reactors)
 Voltage Regulators
 Protective relay systems and associated communication equipment
 Remedial Action schemes and associated communication equipment

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 104 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

13.4.4 Maintenance Record Keeping and Reporting

Maintenance records of all maintenance and inspection activities shall be retained for at
least five years. The records of maintenance and inspection activities shall be made
available to the WECC or other regulatory body, as requested, to demonstrate
compliance with the TMIP. The transmission owner shall maintain and make available
on request, records for substantial maintenance or inspection of the items listed above.
The maintenance and inspection records shall, at a minimum:
 Identify the person(s) responsible for performing the work or inspection
 Indicate the date(s) the work or inspection was performed
 Identify the transmission facility
 Describe the inspection or maintenance that was performed
13.5 Calibration and Maintenance of Revenue and Interchange Metering
Refer to the Bonneville Metering Application Guide, STD-DC-000005. Revenue and
interchange metering will be calibrated at least every two years. Other calibration
intervals may be negotiated. All interested parties or their representatives may witness
the calibration test. Calibration records shall be made available to all interested parties.
Each meter shall be calibrated against a standard or reference instrument or meter that
has been calibrated and certified during the preceding twelve months. Calibration of
standard meters and instruments must meet accuracy requirements of the National
Institute of Standards and Technology.
13.6 Synchronizing
The Requester’s system or portion of system with energized generators must
synchronize its equipment to the BPA Grid using automatic synchronizers, IEEE Device
25A. Synchronization shall be supervised by a separate synchronizing check relay,
IEEE Device 25. The exception to this is under large-scale islanding conditions, where
the BPA Dispatcher will re-synchronize the BPA grid to neighboring systems over major
interties. Please refer to Sections 9.1.2.2.6 and 9.1.4.2 for specific requirements
regarding synchronizing and reclosing.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 105 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

14. REFERENCES
14.1 Bonneville Power Administration - United States and Other Codes
Accident Prevention Manual (APM)

Transmission Services Design Standards

AGC Requirements Document (BPA)

National Environmental Policy Act - 42 U.S.C. & 4321 et seq.

Uniform Building Code

Occupational Safety and Health Administration

Open Access Transmission Tariff – DOE/BPA-3406

Metering Application Guide – BPA STD-DC-000005

Large Generation Interconnection Procedure (LGIP) and LGIP Business Practice

Small Generation Interconnection Procedure (SGIP) and SGIP Business Practice

Line/Load Interconnection Procedure (LLIP) and LLIP Business Practice

Balancing Authority Area Services Agreement (BAASA)

http://www.transmission.bpa.gov/business/generation_interconnection/

14.2 ANSI – IEEE – NFPA

IEEE Std 80 – Guide for Safety in AC Substation Grounding

ANSI/IEEE Std 81 Part 1 - Guide for Measuring Earth Resistivity, Ground Impedance,
and Earth Surface Potentials of a Ground System & Part 2: Guide for
Measurement of Impedance and Safety Characteristics of Large, Extended or
Interconnected Grounding Systems

IEEE 1100 – Recommended Practice for Powering and Grounding Electronic

Equipment

IEEE 100 – The Authoritative Dictionary of IEEE Standards Terms

IEEE Std 367 - Recommended Practice for Determining the Electric Power Station
Ground Potential Rise and Induced Voltage from a Power Fault

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 106 of 107

Technical Requirements for Interconnection to the BPA Transmission STD-N-000001
Grid

ANSI/IEEE Std 421.1 – IEEE Standard Definitions for Excitation Systems for
Synchronous Machines

IEEE Std 421.2 – IEEE Guide for Identification, Testing, and Evaluation of the Dynamic
Performance of Excitation Control Systems

IEEE Std 487 - Recommended Practice for the Protection of Wire-Line Communication
Facilities Serving Electric Power Stations

IEEE Std 519 - IEEE Recommended Practices and Requirements for Harmonic Control
in Electrical Power Systems

IEEE Std - 837 - Standard for Qualifying Permanent Connections Used in Substation
Grounding

IEEE Std – 1159 – Recommended Practice for Monitoring Electric Power Quality

IEEE Std – 1547 – Interconnecting Distributed Resources with Electric Power Systems

IEEE Std – C37.118 – Enclosed Field Discharge Circuit Breakers for Rotating Electric
Machinery

IEEE Std, C57.116, Guide for Transformers Directly Connected to Generators

NESC C2 - National Electrical Safety Code

ANSI C84.1 – Electric Power System and Equipment – Voltage Ratings (60 Hz)

NFPA 70 - National Electrical Code

IEC 870-6 TASE.2 - Inter-Control Center Communication Protocol (ICCP) Standard.

STD-N-000001-00-03 11/6/13 Page 107 of 107