After publication of Ofgem’s report on the power outage on 9thAugust 2019 lessons learned, conclusions and next steps have been detailed. Some of these next steps were already being considered by the System Operator (SO) and Energy Networks Association (ENA)_or progressing in the background, but are now being fast-tracked to ensure the security of the electricity network and the continuity of supply. But what does it mean for generators?
The first conclusion in Ofgem’s report is to encourage consideration of whether there should be higher levels of reserve power to ensure greater resilience specified in the transmission network planning document, the Security and Quality of Supply Standard (SQSS). This could mean contracting with a greater number of generators to be available in case of an outage, the contracted generator is committing to support the network under instruction from the SO.
Another recommended action is for the SO to engage fully with large transmission generators, to review and enhance current compliance testing, modelling and verification processes, with a further view to improving the transparency of real-time operational requirements including reserve, response and system inertia.
Ofgem suggest a network standard for critical infrastructure to identify the scenarios that they should be able to operate under. This has no direct effect on connected generators, although it may encourage more infrastructure to procure and maintain emergency backup systems.
A requirement to prevent the loss of the large amount of embedded generation in future events is highlighted. A combination of incorrect RoCoF settings and the use of the vector shift protection function was responsible for the tripping of embedded generation during the events of the 9thAugust. The ENA programme called “‘Accelerated Loss of Mains Change Programme’ encourages generators to upgrade their relays and corresponding protection settings early to bring existing generators in line with the requirements for newly connected generators under EREC G99, and will be mandatory by 2022. Funding is available to support generators through this process. These settings bring existing embedded generators’ protection up to date, it allows for their performance to be more predictable enabling the SO to be able to forecast the outcome of secured events with a lot more certainty.
The compliance framework for smaller embedded generators is mentioned, and the suggestion is that they are made more robust to ensure sufficient performance standards. Ofgem and BEIS are encouraged to engage with the industry in Spring 2020.
It is clear that compliance, testing, commissioning and verification procedures for all types of generators will come under scrutiny and may change. The start date for mandatory updates to protection settings and equipment may be brought forward, meaning generators should look to utilise the funding as it has a limited amount available. More robust security and reserve arrangements could increase the SO’s operating cost and negatively impact bill payers.
If you’re unsure whether you’re affected or not, or would like to know more about how to go about accessing this fund, pleasecontact TNEI.
