Key Definitions
- DOE: Supervises electricity industry restructuring.
- Distribution Utility/Distributor: Entities with franchise to operate distribution systems.
- Dispute Resolution Panel: GMC-appointed panel for dispute matters.
- Electric Cooperative: Cooperative authorized under specific laws.
- ERC: Independent regulatory body enforcing grid-related codes.
- Grid Code: Rules for safe, reliable operation of the high voltage Transmission System.
- Grid Owner: Owns and maintains the high voltage Transmission System.
- GMC: Committee established by ERC to administer and oversee Grid Code functions.
- Large Customer/Generator and Small Generator: Categorized by capacity and demand thresholds.
- Market Operator: Manages Wholesale Electricity Spot Market.
- NEA: Supports Electric Cooperatives.
- TRANSCO: Manages the high-voltage Transmission System.
- Significant Incident and Notice: Serious Grid or User system events and respective notices.
- Supplier: Authorized entity selling electricity to end-users.
- System Operator: Responsible for dispatch, ancillary services, and Grid operation.
- User: Entity using the Grid or Distribution System.
Interpretation Principles
- Rules align with the Grid Code and do not contradict existing laws or government regulations.
Functions of the GMC
- Monitor Grid Code compliance and Grid operations.
- Recommend standards, procedures related to Grid connection and development.
- Coordinate dispute resolution, enforcement, and Grid Code revisions.
- Prepare reports for ERC or relevant agencies.
Composition of the GMC
- Members nominated by various sectors: System Operator, Grid Owner, Market Operator, Large and Small Generators, Distributors, Electric Cooperatives, Suppliers, and Large Customers.
- Representatives from ERC, DOE, and NEA as non-decision-making advisors.
Terms and Removal of GMC Members
- Regular Members serve three years, non-renewable except initial appointees.
- Removal for cause requires two-thirds GMC vote and ERC approval.
- Vacancies filled via sector nominations, with successors serving remainder of terms.
Meeting Procedures and Quorum
- Regular meetings monthly; special meetings called by Chairman or eight Members.
- Meetings via physical presence or approved remote methods.
- Notices issued seven days prior with agenda.
- Quorum: majority with affirmative votes for decisions; consensus preferred for contentious enforcement matters.
GMC Officers and Administration
- Election of Vice Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer from different organizations.
- Duties of officers defined; officers assist efficient GMC functioning.
- Management staff handles day-to-day operations.
- Budget preparation and ERC-approved funding via TRANSCO for ongoing operations.
Subcommittees Established
- Permanent: Grid Planning, Operations, Reliability and Protection Subcommittees.
- Each has defined responsibilities related to standards, reports, procedures, and incidents.
- Ad hoc and other subcommittees may be created with ERC approval for specific tasks.
- Subcommittees provide recommendations subject to GMC approval.
Grid Code Dispute Resolution
- Applies to System Operator, Grid Owner, Market Operator, and Users.
- Excludes billing/commercial disputes under Market Rules.
- Process involves informal resolution attempts, committee formation, Dispute Resolution Panel creation.
- Panel consists of 3-5 technically qualified members chosen by raffle; panels exclude related parties.
- Panel conducts hearings, documents recommendations sent to GMC and ERC.
- Costs shared based on resolution outcome; fees imposed to cover administrative costs; bonds may be required.
Grid Code Enforcement and Revision
- Complaints filed with ERC or GMC directed to enforce Grid Code.
- Enforcement steps: notice, response within 30 days, GMC evaluation, ERC final decision.
- ERC imposes fines and penalties under established guidelines for violations.
- Unforeseen circumstances handled by System Operator with consultation and GMC/ERC oversight.
- Procedure for Grid Code revision includes proposal submission, GMC/subcommittee evaluation, recommendations to ERC.
Reporting Requirements
- Quarterly and annual reports submitted to ERC.
- Significant Incident reports filed within one week by System Operator with follow-up validation and recommendations.
- Special reports produced upon ERC or other agency order or User request (at User expense).
Amendments, Separability, and Effectivity
- Amendments require GMC consensus and ERC approval.
- Invalid provisions severable without affecting remaining rules.
- Rules effective 15 days after publication in two newspapers of general circulation.