PJM Preparing to Open Black Start RFP
VALLEY FORGE, Pa. — PJM plans to open a solicitation window for black start service after the June 2023 request-for-proposal window did not yield fuel-assured black start generation for some transmission zones.
PJM’s Ray Lee told the Planning Committee it believes part of the issue is a lack of understanding of the requirements and criteria for a black start generator to be considered fuel-assured, so PJM will schedule a special session of the OC for stakeholder education. The RFP window is expected to open April 29.
Lee explained there are six ways to meet the minimum qualifications, including being connected to multiple interstate pipelines, on-site fuel storage and status as a nonhydro intermittent hybrid resource. Stakeholders voted in 2022 to adopt the fuel-assured black start criteria with the aim of increasing fuel availability for at least one generator, on top of existing regional black start requirements. (See “Black Start Fuel Requirements Advance to Members Committee,” PJM MRC Briefs: Oct. 24, 2022.)
The black start RFP process occurs on a five-year cycle, with additional windows opened when deficiencies are identified. The current windows are to supply the service starting Jan. 1, 2027.
First Read on Periodic Review Manual Revisions
PJM presented revisions to Manual 3 and Manual 36 drafted through the documents’ periodic review, both of which will be considered for endorsement at the May 2 OC meeting.
The changes to Manual 3 added OC informational posting requirements for facilities adding dynamic line rating capability, language around the use of the Transient Stability Assessment to measure transient voltage response and rules for rescheduling canceled transmission outages.
The list of transmission owners detailed in Manual 36 was updated, as well as the list of TOs and their deadlines for submitting their annual restoration plans.
Operating Metrics and Security Update
PJM’s Joe Callis continued to sound the alarm on the threat posed by Volt Typhoon and other organized hacking groups that may be targeting utilities nationwide. He recommended members be cautious about the data they provide or make available to vendors, highlighting an attack in January that used a breach of Microsoft email to search for information shared by partner companies.
PJM experienced an average hourly load forecast error of 1.35% in March, below its rolling 25-month average of just over 1.5%, Stephanie Schwarz presented to stakeholders. The RTO did not exceed its 3% benchmark for daily peak forecast error. One high-system voltage action was issued, along with a geomagnetic disturbance warning and six postcontingency local load relief warnings. Nine shortage cases were approved March 10 due to load, interchange and slow steam generation response.
Grid Security Drill Scheduled
PJM has scheduled its biennial grid security drill for Oct. 29, 2024, and this month will begin sending invitations to members to participate. The drill focuses on physical and cybersecurity issues within PJM’s footprint and is open to government agencies to either participate or observe.
PJM’s Rebecca Gerber said companies should reach out to her to ensure PJM has the correct contacts for invitations or relaying information about the drill.
