Course Catalog
Select a course title to read its description and watch an overview, when available.
This course starts out by defining some key terms and looking at how BAL-002-3 applies to BAs and RSGs. From here we dive into how the WPP Reserve Sharing Group Program works regularly checking in with simulations. These simulations include how first responders work, how Contingency Reserve Obligation is calculated, how an operator should handle a loss that is smaller than their CRO, how to make a request of the group, how to make an additional request for another qualified loss within 60 minutes of the first, how to properly end their request, as well as what the participation flag does and how the performance of BAs is graded post event. Other topics discussed are the zonal concept used by the WPP RSG, deploying reserves, tagging and settlements, backup procedures, and finally the performance metrics the group has implemented.
NWPP_070_RSE_2026
This course covers the following AC Power topics that should help an operator prepare for their NERC certification exam. This includes: electromagnetic induction, AC generation including poles, sine waves, RMS, how three phase systems are constructed including wye and delta configurations. From there the course transitions into talking about Inductance and Capacitance and how they combine to form different types of AC circuits and their impacts on the current and voltage waves (leading and lagging) as well as how impedance is impacted. Finally, different types of power including MW, MVAR, and MVA as well as power flow and power factor are discussed.
NWPP_070_AC_2025
This course focuses on effective communication practices used in real time power system operations, with emphasis on NERC COM-002-4 requirements. Participants learn how miscommunication occurs, how it can impact Bulk Electric System reliability, and how structured oral two-party person to person communication helps prevent human performance errors. Through narrated instruction, real world scenarios, interviews, and simulations, the course demonstrates proper use of three-part communication during normal operations and emergency conditions, as well as how communication practices support audit readiness.
NWPP_070_OPCP_2025
This course provides an in-depth overview of the Western Power Pool Contingency Reserve Sharing Program, built from recordings of training sessions where instructors utilized PowerPoint presentations to guide the discussion. It covers the roles and responsibilities of different entities related to the WPP Reserve Sharing Program, a few key definitions, and a brief overview of how the program works. It then goes in-depth on the different data points provided to and from the participating BAs, then concludes with a brief look at automation, alarming recommendations, and when post-event reporting is required. Key NERC concepts like Most Severe Single Contingency (MSSC), Balancing Contingency Event (BCE), and Reportable Balancing Contingency Event (RBCE) are defined, along with program elements such as zones, cut planes, and Contingency Reserve Obligation (CRO) calculations.
NWPP_070_RSGT_2026
NERC, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency (or NOAA), and the US Geological Survey (or USGS) have partnered in a joint effort to close the loop on the forecast, warning, and alert of geomagnetic disturbances (GMDs). This is the starting point for determining what information power system engineers and operators need from forecasters of GMDs in order to prevent catastrophe.
In this course (NWPP_070_SW_2017),we will ask the questions, what is Space Weather? How does it cause GMDs, and what are the impacts of such disturbances? And how is the electric utility industry preparing itself to mitigate the threat this kind of event poses?
NWPP_070_SW_2017
This course begins with a brief overview of the Odessa event and what made this one important since these types of events have been seen since the 2016 Blue Cut Fire. The different causes of tripping / reduction of output are discussed along with the impacts that these caused on the grid. From here the presenters spent a significant amount of time on the reasons why Solar Plants and BESS resources continue to be interconnected in what proves to be an unreliable fashion including lack of proper models, lack of proper studies, and changes made after the studies have been completed. The presentation ends with a brief discussion of an upcoming report about 4 events in California from 2021 and then a question and answer period where the specific role that the operators can play in this is tied in.
NWPP_070_LOE_2022
This course covers comm aided protection as well as Special Protection Schemes and Remedial Action Schemes with a case study on WECC RAS 1.
NWPP_070_CARAS_2019
This course covers the following DC Power topics that should help an operator prepare for their NERC certification exam. This includes: Current, Voltage, and Resistance; circuits including series and parallel; Laws including Ohm’s law, Power, both of Kirchhoff’s laws; concluding with energy usage and HVDC. Concepts are introduced using DC power were available as it is easier to understand the principles in a DC system as compared to AC.
NWPP_070_DC_2025
This course begins with an introduction to the FEMS ICS structure and how it has been implemented at four companies whose representatives are interviewed in the course. From there we talk briefly about some tools that can be used in strategic decision making (primarily the OODA loop) and then we dive into the bulk of the course which is talking about different types of extreme weather and natural disasters that can impact power system operations (hot and cold weather, fires, earthquakes, floods, drought, high winds, and even volcanos). We discuss different plans that the companies have in place for these events and some lessons that they have learned in implementing those plans responding to these events. At the end of the course we discuss NERC standards EOP-011-2, EOP-011-3, EOP-012-1, and TOP-002-5 as the standards with the current and near future impacts to system operations and planning specifically during cold weather.
NWPP_070_EP_2023
This course covers the inner workings of Interchange Scheduling. We will look at the scheduling and tagging of energy between Balancing Authorities including who is involved throughout the process as well as how Northwest Power Pool reserves are tagged. This look into Interchange Scheduling brings together five industry experts to help explain this complex topic: Kathee Downey and Deana Doney of Pacificorp, Bart McManus and Rian Sackett of BPA, and Jessica Zamonis of NWPP.
NWPP_070_IS_2019
This course is meant to provide a high-level overview covering the basics of inverters and inverter-based resources — primarily focused on wind turbines, photovoltaic plants, and battery energy storage systems. This is focused on high level content that an operator should know to be able to pass the NERC Certification exam.
NWPP_070_IBR_2026
This course covers the following math topics that an operator should know to be successful on the NERC Certification Exam as well as on the desk: ratios, pi, squares and square roots, engineering notation, trigonometry, the operators j and a, per unit, and vectors and phasors. Where possible the introduction to these concepts is followed up with examples using the power system.
NWPP_070_Math_2025
In this class the SOL and IROL Methodology in the West will be discussed. This includes FAC-008 and FAC-011 as well as looking at how any exceedances can be mitigated in the form of congestion management and generation redispatch with a further look into how the SPP RC is using generator to load distribution factors and flowgates to monitor and manage congestion in the Western Interconnection.
NWPP_070_OLCM_2020
This course covers Real Time Assessments used by system operators to evaluate current and potential operating conditions on the Bulk Electric System. Participants learn how real time data, models, tools, and operator judgment combine to form situational awareness and support timely operational decisions. Through narrated instruction, real world examples, and applied analysis, the course demonstrates how RTAs are performed, interpreted, coordinated, documented, and integrated into everyday operator thinking to maintain system reliability.
NWPP_070_RTA_2025
This course begins by defining reliability, safety, security, BES, and BPS. This is followed by a review of the major US blackouts and the changes to the power system that followed (formation of NERC, voluntary standards, mandatory standards). It then covers more in depth of who the regulators are, NERC defined Essential Reliability Services, and the functional model entities of TOP, BA, and RC. From there we dive into how NERC standards were developed and the process for creating or modifying a standard. After that we wrap up with monitoring and enforcement followed by 2 case studies, one on CIP-006 and one looking at the real world compliance impacts of the 2011 blackout.
NWPP_070_RC_2021
This video course provides an in-depth look at the operation of the WPP Reserve Sharing Group (RSG), along with how the program leverages zones, cut planes, and first responders to maintain transmission reliability while meeting local needs up to the Most Severe Single Contingency (MSSC). Next, the course examines the various event types that qualify for Contingency Reserve sharing within the RSG. This is followed by a look at the process of requesting reserves, the performance requirements within the group and finally the recommended back-up procedures that should be used if a Participant loses connection with the automated program.
NWPP_070_RSG_OP_2026
This video course introduces the fundamentals of power system switching, covering switching principles, equipment types, and operational procedures. Topics include manual, remote, and automatic switching, along with safety protocols such as clearances, lockout/tagout (LOTO), and hotline holds. The course explores switching orders, relay coordination, and advanced protection schemes, ensuring safe and efficient power flow management. Key NERC standards such as COM-002, EOP-005, BAL-001, PRC-027 and TOP-001 are reviewed in relation to switching procedures. Additionally, the course examines advanced technologies, including SCADA, ADMS, and WAMS, which enhance real-time monitoring and automation. HVDC systems and RAS are also discussed as critical components of grid stability and resilience. Participants will engage in interactive simulations to apply key concepts in real-world scenarios, reinforcing best practices for grid reliability, communication, and safety.
NWPP_070_SF_2025
This course begins with some key term definitions and a discussion about the different conditions when a restoration plan should be used. EOP-004 and the OE-417 are mentioned from a disturbance reporting threshold perspective and EOP-005 and EOP-006 are discussed in more depth. This course not only focuses on the blackstart restoration component of system restoration, but also looks at restarting your system from an energized tie line and resynchronizing after an islanding event.
This course follows the EPRI manual through the four step restoration process including assessment and stabilization, various restoration strategies, priorities and critical facilities, voltage and frequency control and ends with a discussion of reserves, resynchronizing and lessons learned from previous restoration events.
NWPP_070_SR_2022
This course begins with a brief history of open access transmission and the OATT. From there the entities involved with transmission service are defined and the contents of the OATT are summarized with a deeper dive on Point-to-Point and Network Transmission Services. This deeper dive includes not only what these services are and the differences between them but also looks at designation of network service, service priorities, how ATC and TTC are calculated as well as the process that happens when a service request is entered and how system upgrades are developed and paid for.
NWPP_070_TS_2021
This course begins with a quick review of frequency including what it is, why it is important to keep it within a certain range, and how it is controlled. From there we go into load shedding including what it is (generally), what types of loads may be excluded from load shedding, and then we discuss the different types of load shedding including how the other types of load shed may interact with UFLS. The requirements to minimize the overlap between manual and automatic load shedding from EOP-011-1, along with PRC-006-5, PRC-008-0, and PRC-024-2 are discussed. As the target audience for this course is System Operators in the Western Interconnection, the 1996 outages as well as the history of the WECC plan are discussed, before diving into the details of the WECC Off Nominal Frequency Plan. The challenges that come from the increase in both inverter-based grid connected resources as well as distributed energy resources are discussed as well.
NWPP_070_UFLS_2021
Four industry experts will help us explore what a wind power forecast is and what goes into making one and how System operators can use these forecasts to improve their job performance. Wind power and some challenges specific to wind will also be discussed. In this course we will be joined by Ken Neal the Director of Grid Operations at NaturEner, Eamon Hoffman a Trainer at NaturEner Jeff Lerner manager of Forecast Operation at Vaisala, and Justin Sharp founder and principal of Sharply Focused LLC which specializes in the interaction of weather and climate on energy systems.
NWPP_070_WPF_2019
In this course(NWPP_070_ACE_2017), we discuss the purpose and calculation of the Area Control Error (ACE) equation. We define key terms that apply to ACE’s relationship to the system as a whole. We examine relevent reliability standards and requirements, and how they impact the operator’s job of managing an accurate ACE calculation. We’ll investigate components of AGC and EMS, the systems feeding into an automatic ACE calculation, and outline operator tasks and procedures under a variety of circumstances wherein ACE must be manually calculated. The course concludes by examining some possible events that could lead to these circumstances, how to spot them, and corrective actions to take along the way in restoring the system to its proper function.
NWPP_070_ACE_2017
This course is designed to be an introduction to AGC. It looks at what AGC is and how it works and other important topics associated with AGC: Cullen Ritchie of Tacoma Power, Rob WItham of Chelan PUD and Jessica Zamonis of NWPP
NWPP_070_AGC_2019
This course covers various aspects of basic electrical concepts and how they influence power system operations. This includes definitions for electricity, voltage, current, resistance, and power as well as types of energy, circuit theory, Ohms law, the power equation, and Kirchhoff's laws. Once these foundations are laid the course then goes in to AC vs DC power including where and why we use each, power system equipment including power pole construction and single phase vs 3 phase power, and finally a few minutes on safety.
NWPP_070_BESO_2020
This course aims to answer the following questions as they relate to disturbance reporting as defined in CIP-008-6, EOP-004-4, and the DOE-417:
- What is an event in general and why should they be reported?
- Who needs to be notified?
- What events need to be reported?
- How do you fill out and submit the DOE-417 (since it covers all other reporting requirements)?
NWPP_070_DR_2022
This course covers the fundamental concepts that an operator should be aware of if their company has a dam with an emergency action plan. This includes basic information on dams and how they can fail, what is at stake if a dam were to fail, and the planning that goes into preparing for dam failures. Emergency Action Plans, as required by FERC for dams with hydroelectric generation, are then examined in depth further with specific attention paid to notification flowcharts, inundation maps, and the possible role of the system operator as well as others they may be notifying. This class is then concluded using the Oroville spillway failure of 2017 as a case study in proper planning and preparation.
NWPP_070_EAP_2020
This podcast is a conversation between a BA manager, an RC manager, a representative from WECC operations, and a NWPP RSG representative. They discuss each section of EOP-011-1 including what emergencies are, Operating Plans, and EEAs. The majority of the time is spent discussing EEAs including what the different levels mean to the operators and tools that can be utilized for load/generation balance at each level. The WECC EEA Lessons Learned document that was developed after the summer of 2020 is briefly discussed as well as how being a member of a Reserve Sharing Group impacts the different tools and conditions surrounding a BA being in an EEA. In this Podcast Jessica Zamonis of the NorthWest Power Pool is joined by Curtis Holland from WECC, Derek Hawkins of SPP RC, and Josh Harris of Idaho Power.
NWPP_070_EOP-011_2022
In this course, we’ll look at the history of power system operations that led to the need for the FERC Standards of Conduct and who these standards apply to. From there the instructors will dive in to Transmission and Marketing Functions and define who those employees are and what they do. The bulk of the course is then spent investigating the 4 rules (Non-Discrimination, Independent Functioning, No Conduit, and Transparency) before wrapping up with implementation, exceptions, and violations.
NWPP_070_SC_2023
This course begins by defining frequency, synchronous, and asynchronous. From there power system frequency and it's impact on reliability are discussed. This is followed by deeper dives into inertia, governor response (including FFR), and the 4 stages of frequency response (according to EPRI). From there a BA's role in frequency management, Frequency Bias, UFLS and time error are discussed. This is finished off with a brief conversation about the applicable standards and the NWPP FRSG.
NWPP_070_Freq_2020
This course Frequency Response Performance is a timing-based interpretation course built for operators and support staff in the Western Interconnection. Rather than focusing solely on compliance or modeling assumptions, the course explains how frequency events unfold in phases, how inertia and Primary Frequency Response interact, and how modern inverter-based resources are changing early event behavior. The objective is not to calculate response, but to interpret performance using event data and understand how timing influence’s reliability risk.
[NWPP_070_FRP_2026]
This course covers information about generator construction, possible fault conditions, and protective relaying principles.
NWPP_070_GP_2019
This course provides a comprehensive overview of generator synchronization, focusing on the equipment, principles, and operator actions required to safely connect generators to a live electrical system. It explains how voltage, frequency, and phase angle must align before synchronization, and details the tools and techniques used to achieve safe and reliable connection. Key topics include generator components, synchronous speed, excitation and governor control, manual and automatic sync tools, and synchronization during system restoration. Participants will also learn how to recognize and avoid risks such as phase mismatch and motoring. This course emphasizes practical knowledge, operational awareness, and adherence to utility procedures.
NWPP_070_GS_2025
This course introduces the student to the power system with topics that should help an operator prepare for their NERC certification exam. It provides a general overview of the grid’s key sections, (generation, transmission, and distribution), and introduces some various pieces of equipment along the way. It covers the path electricity takes to get from the generator, through the transmission system, to the distribution system and, ultimately, to the load. It looks at different types of generators and other equipment on the system, talks about equipment and customer classifications, and have even takes a brief look at how load is predicted.
NWPP_070_PSO2_2026
This course is made up of three podcasts that look at NERC's Lessons Learned relating to inclement weather. This course includes episodes 2, 10, and 7 from our series on this topic.
2 - NERC Lesson Learned: Preparing Circuit Breakers for Operation in Cold Weather
10 - NERC Lesson Learned: SF6 CB Operation during Cold Weather.
7 - NERC Lesson Learned: Unanticipated Wind Generation Cutoffs during a Cold Weather Event
NWPP_070_LL-IWP_2021
This course is made up of three podcasts that look at NERC's Lessons Learned relating to system emergencies. This course includes episodes 3, 6, and 8 from our series on this topic.
3 - NERC Lesson Learned: Cascading Analysis IDs Load Shed Need
6 - NERC Lesson Learned: Preventing EEAs.
8 - NERC Lesson Learned: Single Phase Fault Precipitates Loss of Generation and Load.
NWPP_070_LL-SEP_2021
This course is made up of three podcasts that look at NERC's Lessons Learned relating to system protection. This course includes episodes 1, 5, and 9 from our series on this topic.
1 - NERC Lesson Learned: Breaker Failure due to Trip Coil Polarity.
5 - NERC Lesson Learned: Breaker Failure Due to Multiple Reclose Attempts.
9 - NERC Lesson Learned: Mixing Relay Technologies in DCB Schemes.
NWPP_070_LL-SPP_2021
This podcast is a conversation between a Western Power Pool Transmission Planning Engineer, an Electrical Engineer for Bonneville Power Administration who supports system operations, and a NOAA Space Weather forecaster discussing the May 2024 GMD Event, NOAAs early notification to the RCs, and the events impacts to the grid. It starts out with defining some key terms relating to Space Weather (GMD, GIC, CME) and there is also discussion of how what was seen compares to the study requirements in TPL-007-4.
NWPP_070_GMDPOD_2024
This course (NWPP_070_PNCA_2017) is based on materials from Power System Coordination: A Guide to the Pacific Northwest Coordination Agreement, The Columbia River Treaty History and 2014/2024 Review, and the Foundation for Water, Energy & Education, fwee.org.
NWPP_070_PNCA_2017
Operating Instructions are covered including the applicable requirements of COM-002, IRO-001, and TOP-001 including the reasons for not following and requirements if you cannot follow the given Operating Instruction. This course also includes a look at the official definition of an Operating Instruction, the anatomy of an Operating Instruction, and any required documentation when an Operating Instruction is issued or received. Specific time is spent discussing what makes for a great Operting Instruction and common pitfalls that are experienced as well.
In this course (NWPP_070_OI_2019) we'll talk to Jessica Zamonis and Greg Park of Northwest Power Pool, Cullen Ritchie of Tacoma Power, Kevin Riedinger of the Sacramento Municipal Utility DIstrict, Eamon Hoffman of NaturEner, Kelly Blackmer of Peak RC, and Eric Dick of Idaho Power Company for their insights on these topics.
NWPP_070_OI_2019
This podcast is a conversation between a Transmission Planner, a system operator, and someone with experience in both. The overall goal of the conversation is to look at the processes and challenges that each group faces in their day-to-day jobs and understand better where the other group is coming from. This is done by discussing the following topics: studies and study methodologies, system models and their inputs, how each group studies and handles contingencies, system limits including SOLs, IROLs, and the FERC 881 drive towards more dynamic limits, remedial action schemes, and finally communication between the groups.
NWPP_070_OPPOD_2025
In this course, we’ll look at some primary areas of the electric power system: generation, transmission, and distribution. We’ll start with a brief history and overview of the grid, then dive deeper into each component of our current power system, how they relate to each other, and how they’re all controlled and monitored.
[NWPP_070_PSO_2022]
This course will provide the attendee(s) with general information regarding Real-Time Contingency Analysis [RTCA] to include related NERC Reliability Standards (TOP-001), the associated terminology definitions, and examples of Power Systems Operations monitoring and control applications utilized in accordance with these regulatory standards. This presentation will explain theory of operation of real-time functionalities, operating parameter(s) and data quality monitoring capabilities, and customization options in order to satisfy RTCA associated requirements.
NWPP_070_RTCA_2020
This video course provides an overview of the WPP Reserve Sharing Group (RSG) performance requirements and procedures to ensure compliance with BAL-002-3. The course begins with an instructor-led discussion, using a PowerPoint presentation, on the performance requirements outlined in the WPP RSG Program Documentation. Next, the course explores the tagging of energy and settlement processes following a reserve sharing request, detailing how these transactions are managed. Finally, the course reviews post-event reporting requirements, emphasizing compliance demonstration and performance analysis in accordance with BAL-002-3.
NWPP_070_RSG_ATF_2026
This course begins with defining key terms related to reserve sharing and how to use the WPP Reserve Sharing Program. This is followed by a deep dive into the 4 types of events that are defined as Qualifying Events for sharing of Contingency Reserves in the WPP Reserve Sharing Program Documentation. Each of these four types of qualifying events is discussed in detail and one or more examples are provided to further enhance the understanding of the events. After all of the types of Qualifying Events are presented the course ends with a look at a few events where the one minute rule for combining events into a single BCE / RBCE occurred as well as case study where the student is put behind the desk and asked to respond to two subsequent generation losses based on previously presented information.
NWPP_070_RSQE_2026
This video course introduces the fundamentals of the Western Power Pool (WPP) Reserve Sharing Group, covering key concepts, roles, and compliance standards. Topics include NERC definitions related to Reserve Sharing (Balancing Contingency Event, Reportable Balancing Contingency Event, Most Severe Single Contingency, Contingency Reserves) and the impact of standards BAL-002-3 and EOP-011-4 on reserve coordination with Energy Emergency Alerts (EEAs). The course explores the benefits of Reserve Sharing Group membership, including reduced Contingency Reserve Obligation, increased RBCE threshold, fast response, and a reduced compliance burden for BAL-002-3. It also reviews the roles and responsibilities of WPP RSG Participants, the WPP RSG Committee, WPP staff, and Balancing Authorities that provide services to the Reserve Sharing Group. Finally, reserve sharing requirements are reviewed in structured segments, providing guidance on operational expectations and compliance responsibilities.
NWPP_070_RSG_GEN_2026
Compliance and Reliability Implications of Real Time Analysis Tools will be discussed in this course. This includes a brief history lesson on how we got here (2003 & 2011), FERC order 693 and Project 2009-02. TOP-001, 002, 003, and 010 are discussed with a highlight to the IRO versions as well. This course aims to tie all of these standards together with how they impact real time operations.
NWPP_070_RTC_2020
This course covers substation protective relaying and the substation equipment that protective relaying depends on.
NWPP_070_SPD_2019
This course is a one hour overview of system protection fundamentals. It is meant to be an introduction to the concepts that are further laid out in our other system protection courses: Comm Aided Protection & Remedial Action Schemes, Generator Protection, Substation Protection & Dependencies, as well as Transmission Protection Schemes. This course looks at specific types of power system faults, protection system characteristics, instrument transformers, relay types (both construction and functionality), and the other components of a protection system. To round out the class we cover ANSI numbers, protection and tripping zones, targets, and misoperations.
Special thanks to Russ Chore of Fortis BC, Kevin Madden from Tacoma Power, and Rob Witham from Chelan PUD for helping us develop this course.
NWPP_070_SP101_2020
This course looks at the concepts of of typical protective relaying schemes used on transmission systems.
NWPP_070_TPS_2019
This course is designed to be an introduction or refresher course on Voltage. It looks at what Voltage and MVARs are as well as how they interact and Operator monitoring and control options for system Voltage. This look into Voltage brings together six industry experts to help explain this important topic: Eric Dick of Idaho Power, Sean Flett of PacifiCorp, Cullen Ritchie of Tacoma Power, Kevin Riedinger of Sacramento Municipal Utility District, Rob Witham of Chelan PUD, and Daniel Shore of Puget Sound Energy.
NWPP_070_VC_2019
WECC RAS 1 is the name of a Remedial Action Scheme in the Western Interconnection designed to recognize very specific low probability, high-impact system conditions and separate the Interconnection into two distinct, asynchronous islands. Like creasing a piece of paper, WECC RAS 1 clearly identifies how, where, and when the system should separate in order to not only minimize damage to equipment, but also expedite the process of restoration.
But what are the conditions the RAS is monitoring? Where are the separation points, and who are the primary players involved? What might operators see on their systems when the RAS is activated, and how should they respond? And what is the process of restoring the system?
In this course(NWPP_070_OLT_WECC_RAS1), we’ll talk to Greg Park of Northwest Power Pool, and Mark Willis of the Sacramento Municipal Utility District about these very topics.
NWPP_070_OLT_WECC_RAS1
This course begins with a brief history of the Western Energy Imbalance Market (WEIM) and an overview of its purpose in balancing load and generation economically within the Western Interconnection. Key terms such as base schedules, participating resources, and multi-stage generators are defined early on. From there, the course delves into the WEIM’s structure, covering its inputs (forecasts, schedules, bids, and network models), outputs (Dispatch Operating Targets, Locational Marginal Prices), and operational processes, including real-time and advisory market runs.
Examples illustrate concepts such as how market timelines function, how dispatches are adjusted in real-time, and how operators can handle contingencies like reserve sharing events. Other topics include WEIM’s integration with tools like BSAP, ADS, and SIBR, the purpose and execution of market tests for balancing, capacity, flex ramping, and feasibility, and how reserve sharing interacts with the market.
NWPP_070_WEIM_2024
This course covers the following divisions or entities within the North American Power Grid: Interconnections and the regions within them as well as FERC, NERC, and the Regional Entities. From there the course spends time diving into each of the types of entities that were either found in the old NERC Functional Model or are types of entities that companies can register as. Finally the course goes over the different classifications of standards.
NWPP_070_WDW_2025
In this 30 minute podcast we will explore the events that effected the bulk eletric system due to fault conditions that occured during the Blue Cut Fire.
Because electrical energy cannot be readily or economically stored in the quantities required for industrial life, it must be generated as it is used. When the demand for power exceeds the output of a single connected generator, it is necessary to link additional generators to share the load.
This course (NWPP_070_SYNCH_2017) has been prepared to familiarize transmission operators with the requirements and process for synchronizing, a process which most transmission operators have seldom if ever performed.
THIS COURSE NO LONGER HAS NERC CREDIT ASSOCIATED WITH IT
Interactive discussion on The increased adoption and implementation of transportation electrification and Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) are a few of the trends that are impacting the distribution and transmission systems. In this presentation, 1898 & Co. will discuss the nuance and variability in these trends (how each utility’s experience and risk will vary), what the impacts look like and how they are studied, and finally, some suggested solutions
Please join AESO as they discuss The Future of Electricity. AESO has made some changes to the generation profiles and have fascinating things to discuss with us pertaining to frequency stability, system strength, flexible capacity and oh, so much more!
FERC Order 881 aims to make use of ambient temperatures to rate the existing transmission system more accurately and unlock extra capacity. How are line ratings impacted in a system that experiences extreme high temperatures and what is being considered to minimize the impact?
Electrification is considered one of the greatest engineering achievements of the 20th century. A massive Grid of networked systems has reached far and wide, electrically powering small communities and enormous cities throughout the globe. Without it, our businesses, homes, and institutions, in fact our entire way of life, would cease to function. But what is electricity? Where does it come from? How is it measured? And how does it work?
Electricity and magnetism are interrelated as one universal electromagnetic force. In part 2 of the Basic Electricity series, we further our study of the physics of electricity by discussing magnetism, electric motors, inductance, capacitance, and frequency.
Every electrical and electronic device you use daily employs a variety of circuits to moderate the flow of current. In part 3 of the Basic Electricity series, we explore the behaviors of various circuit elements in AC circuits.
The Transmission Planning Committee is pleased to bring PacifiCorp and Avista together in an Engineers Forum to discuss how those two organizations successfully Clustered their respective Generation Interconnection processes. We'll have experts from both the Trasnmission Services and Technical sides of the house to address the full spectrum of concepts from the FERC tariff, technical challenges and opportunities, lessons learned, and so much more! Please join in on the conversation and remember that this opportunity is open to you and your cohorts at your organization.
Recording of Engineers Forum from 10/23/2020
Presentation Outline:
History of Northwest AC Intertie – Dmitry Kosterev
Operating Horizon Studies for NWACI – Nick Haggerty
Planning Horizon Studies for NWACI – Sergey Pustovit
Dr. Dmitry Kosterev is a transmission planning engineer at BPA, where he has been involved in many transmission planning projects, sycnhrophasor project, modeling and validation. He served as a chair of WECC modeling work group, WECC Joint Synchronized Information Subcommittee, and NERC Load Modeling Task Force.
Sergey Postovit has worked at BPA, Transmission Planning for the past 10 yrs. He has a Graduate Certificate in Power Systems from Portland State University and received B.S.E.E. from Portland State University.
Nick Haggerty is a Transmission Operations Planning Engineer at BPA and has served in that role for 1 year. His prior experience includes 2 years as Transmission Planning Engineer for BPA and 1 year as Crane Engineer for Department of The Navy. Nick received a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering from Washington State University in 2015.
This presentation was recorded in August 2018 at the NWPP Engineers Forum in Pullman, Washington.
In this course, we cover the proper techniques to ensure consistently effective communication when performing important tasks.
From existing and emerging reliability standards through to upcoming and evolving regulatory standards, Scott Beyer, Transmission Planning Expansion Director at PacifiCorp, delves into the advantages and strategic opportunities that coordinated planning helps promote.
This presentation was recorded in August 2018 at the NWPP Engineers Forum in Pullman, Washington.
Senior VP and COO of Idaho Power, Adam Richins, delivers a compelling and thought-provoking Keynote presentation at the 2023 Engineers Forum. Adam challenges folks to think in new and creative ways and this presentation is an excellent introduction into the myriad of opportunities that face the transmission system today.
Rikin Shah from PacifiCorp provides an overview of the Energy Gateway transmission projects. Collectively, these projects add approximately 2,000 miles of new transmission lines interconnecting the western U.S. states of Utah, Wyoming, Idaho, Oregon and Washington. This forum provides a detailed breakdown of each segment of Energy Gateway, including the purpose, history and status of each segment as of August 2021.
NWPP Engineers Forum 2021
This is not for NERC credit.
This is an 8 episode video series about the WRAP programs two components, the Forwrad Showing and the Operations.
The presentation will explain how GIC can affect protective relays and substation equipment. The History of GIC will be covered and its effects on power system protection and power transformers. Then we will examine how modern protective relays are manufactured, specifically filtering techniques. This will allow the audience to understand how the effects of GIC can be monitored or mitigated using modern microprocessor based protective relays.
This presentation was recorded in September 2017 at the NWPP Engineers Forum in Butte, Montana.
Grid Forming Technologies, What does it mean? What to look for and why is it important to a Transmission Planner? Andrew has been with Electranix since 2003. He currently specializes in renewable interconnections, weak grid and SSR/SSCI issues, as well as large scale EMT system modelling. Additional current efforts include specification and support for FACTs, training for utility planners, study team leadership, and expert witness support. Andrew obtained his M.Sc.(EE) from the University of Manitoba, Canada. He is has been an active participant in NERC working groups, Cigre, and the IEEE.
This presentation on EIM was recorded in September 2016 at the NWPP Engineers Forum in Tacoma, Washington. There are six more recordings from that event currently available to view.
This presentation was recorded in September 2016 at the NWPP Engineers Forum in Tacoma, Washington. There are six more recordings from that event currently available to view.
A description is not available for this course.
Please join the Northwest Power Pool as we dive into Inverter Based Resources! Dmitry Kosterev, BPA will kick things off with an overview of his experience with interconnecting and operating inverter based resources, recent challenges and/or advances. Jens Boemer, EPRI will then provide an overview of IEEE P2800 as well as what the status and next steps are. Jose Cordova, EPRI will then lead a discussion of IEEE 1547-2018 including opportunities, adoption methods, and stakeholder coordination. Following these gentlemen will be an Open Roundtable to discuss things such as: new interconnection data/modeling requirements, operational experience (from both utility and generator owner perspectives), lessons learned, and any remaining knowledge gaps and thoughts about future challenges or goals.
A NWPP Engineers Forum
Please join in on another fascinating course by Dr. Quint as he examines the rise of inverter based resources and the need for grid forming models.
This presentation was recorded in September 2017 at the NWPP Engineers Forum in Butte, Montana.
When a SF6 circuit breaker (CB) hits its critical low pressure, its fault interrupting capability can be compromised. Most TOs protect against this by either auto-opening the CB prior to reaching the critical low-pressure level or by blocking the CB from tripping (when it reaches the critical low-pressure level) and relying on adjacent CBs to open in the event of a fault (breaker failure mode). If this occurs across multiple locations, it can place the Bulk Electric System (BES) at additional risk since it weakens the overall topology of the system and can result in more facilities being removed from service to clear a fault.
On October 25th, 2021, NERC published a Lesson Learned entitled “Pandemic Response”, focused primarily on utilities’ Pandemic Preparedness (or Business Continuity) Plans. Our team took this opportunity to investigate how, for over two uncertain years, the power industry bravely persevered through Covid-19. On this first episode of three, we explore January through April of 2020 wherein the industry used these plans as springboards to keep their people safe. This is Pandemic Response Part. 1: Earth Stood Still.
On this second episode in our three-part series, we explore how the industry adjusted field crew shifts, adapted to ever-changing health guidance, took on remote work challenges, and kept their employees trained between April of 2020 and the end of 2021. This is Pandemic Response Part 2: Lights Stayed On.
On this third and final episode in our three-part series, we first look back at the impact of Omicron and how/when how long-term strategies were developed amidst early Covid chaos. Then, we look ahead to the power industry’s future of work and explore lingering challenges as utility staffs return to offices around North America. This is Pandemic Response Part 3: A New Normal.
In this podcast industry subject matter experts will provide analyses of a NERC Lessons Learned published in 2018.
In this podcast industry subject matter experts will provide analysis of a NERC Lessons Learned published in 2018.
In this podcast industry subject matter experts will provide analyses of a NERC Lessons Learned published in 2019.
In this podcast industry subject matter experts will provide analyses of a NERC Lessons Learned published in 2019.
As several energy emergency alerts (EEAs) were issued over the course of several months, key items were identified that could have prevented the EEAs from being issued and, in some cases, prevented the BAs from unnecessarily shedding firm load to maintain system reliability.
A registered entity experienced extreme cold weather January 29-31, 2019. Unplanned wind generation outages contributed to a maximum generation event, resulting in the entity calling on load management resources (including demand response, behind-the-meter generation, and voluntary reductions) to avoid using emergency power purchases.
A single phase to ground fault on a 400 kV transmission line in Southern England precipitated the loss of 1,878 MW of generation. This led to a frequency decline that resulted in a loss of 931 MW of load. This European event has lessons applicable in North America.
Multiple composite protection system misoperations have occurred on the Bulk Electric System (BES) as a result of mixing protective relay technologies at the remote terminals of directional comparison blocking (DCB) schemes. One of the most challenging mix of technologies is utilizing a relay system based on newer microprocessors (μP) at one terminal and an older electromechanical (EM) relay system at the opposite terminal
In this podcast industry subject matter experts will provide analyses of a NERC Lessons Learned published in 2018.
A description is not available for this course.
This informative video series explores the NorthernGrid Planning open and transparent planning process. The modules begin with an outline/history of the FERC orders that govern the planning processes. The series then describes the differences between Resource Planning and Transmission Planning as well who participates in the NorthernGrid process. From there, the series walks through the panning cycle regarding the technical and non-technical aspects of the Regional Plan, Cost Allocation and its Beneficiaries, the Economic Study Process, and other myriad topics that pertain to the regional planning process. The video series wraps up with an exploration of the States and how they fit into the NorthernGrid planning process.
LineVision, Amazon Web Services, and RMI will provide an overview of GETs, the capabilities they offer, their current state-of-play in the U.S., and how they can meet the ever-growing challenges grid operators and planners face today
Join Dr. Andrés Valdepeña Delgado as he delves into the technical details behind Power Electronics Modeling. You’ll learn about the different models behind power electronics modeling including an in-depth dive into phase locked loop modeling.
During this podcast, three members of the NERC SPIDERWG discuss the NERC Reliability Guideline on DER data collection and modeling.
SPIDER is an acronym for System Planning Impacts from Distributed Energy Resources Working Group and DER is an acronym for distributed energy resources.
This podcast brings to you two NERC experts that provide insights learned from the July 7, 2020 San Fernando disturbance.
Lars Dorr, Program Manager at rPlus Hydro, shared the fascination that is pumped storage. rPlus Hydro has been involved in the development of many large renewable projects and has vast development experience to share. Join Lars as he shares all the deets on a few of the pumped storage projects in development. From location to technology, pumped storage hydro presents challenging and exciting opportunities in the power industry.
This presentation was recorded in September 2016 at the NWPP Engineers Forum in Tacoma, Washington. There are six more recordings from that event currently available to view.
This presentation was recorded in September 2016 at the NWPP Engineers Forum in Tacoma, Washington. There are six more recordings from that event currently available to view.
A NWPP Engineers Forum
This presentation was recorded in September 2016 at the NWPP Engineer Forum in Tacoma, Washington. There are six more recordings from that event currently available to view.
A brief overview of the NWPP Resource Adequacy program that outlines the basic why of the program as well as defines key concepts about the program. This is made up of 3 videos that explain the general concepts involved and then 12 short videos answering common questions about Resource Adequacy topics.
Inverter Based Resources (IBR) are often the Schrödinger's cat of generation resources. It can be challenging to ensure we can rely on them to support the grid during and after a system fault. This is especially complex for Distributed Energy Resources (DER) such as rooftop solar inverters, which may experience momentary cessation after a fault.
In this presentation, Dr. Jenny Riesz discusses the strategies used by the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) in managing these resources to ensure system frequency stability in a small island.
This presentation was recorded in September 2017 at the NWPP Engineers Forum in Butte, Montana.
Please join the Western Power Pool in welcoming Idaho Power which is one of the first utilities in the western interconnection to successfully implement the structural changes needed integrate transmission, distribution, and resource planning. This Engineers Forum is a great opportunity to dig into the details surrounding the integration of these three different, historically disparate, planning areas. The panelists will be sharing their experiences ranging from the inception and need for the integration of the different groups, some of the hurdles they overcame, to the benefits they’re seeing. The panelists would also like to hear your ideas along with your questions. This panel discussion promises to be super-interesting and informative. Audiences including Transmission Planners, Distribution Planners, Resource Planners, Leadership, and Regulators will certainly benefit from this discussion.
The podcast you are about to listen to is supplemental and not eligible for NERC approved continuing education credits, However, we have included it here because it’s kind of awesome and relevant to the electric power industry, and we hope you enjoy…..not earning a credit for it.
Addressing the five grand challenges of carbon emissions: How We Make Things, How We Plug In, How We Grow Things, How We Get Around, and How We Live. Building a future energy system accounting for emissions goals. Macro Grid studies: connecting the interconnections. An overview of the 2021 Texas Power Outage. Hydrogen as a fuel source.
This presentation was recorded in August 2018 at the NWPP Engineers Forum in Pullman, Washington.
This presentation was recorded in August 2018 at the NWPP Engineers Forum in Pullman, Washington.
This 1 hour presentation discusses WECC generic models for inverters and new developments in modelling Grid Forming Inverters.
Considerations beyond the traditional load growth and resource assumptions. Explore a different way of planning for the future and thinking beyond historic boundaries.
This presentation was recorded in September 2016 at the NWPP Engineers Forum in Tacoma, Washington. There are six more recordings from that event currently available to view.
This video discusses the currently identified potential impacts that the Western Resporce Adequacy Program may have on Real-Time System Operations. It also includes a quick review of the two main components of WRAP and the projected timeline for non-binding and binding seasons.