NETA has been setting standards that pave the way for the minimum requirements to ensure an electrical system operates reliably and safely since 1972.
As a result of several widespread blackouts compromising the electric grid, the North American Electric Reliability Council (NERC)was appointed in 2006 by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to develop various standards to aid in the reliability of electric grid infrastructure. Since then, NERC has been specifically responsible for ensuring reliability for the bulk electric system (BES).
These standards started out very basic and were somewhat limited in terms of what was minimally required of utility owners. Over the past 15 years, the standards have developed and become more detailed. The standards now not only include protection and maintenance requirements, but as technology has developed and become more susceptible to cyberattacks, NERC has also developed standards associated with cyber security. These requirements are found in Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP).
In this issue of NETA World, we take a look at some of some of those specific requirements and how you can go about meeting them.
PowerTest 2022 will be at the Hyatt Regency in Denver, Colorado, on February 28–March 4, 2022. This will be NETA’s 50th anniversary, so you will not want to miss it. I’m excited to be able to get back together with everyone in person.
Plan ahead and always put safety first!
Eric Beckman, PE, President
International Electrical Testing Association
