FERC Bolsters Solar and Wind Rules for Grid Reliability
Published Date: 7/29/2025
Rule
Summary
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is updating rules to make sure inverter-based energy sources like wind and solar stay steady during power ups and downs. These changes affect energy companies using certain equipment and require clearer paperwork for old gear exemptions. The updates kick in soon and aim to keep our lights on without extra costs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
New Reliability Standards for Grid Stability
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission approved Reliability Standards PRC-024-4 and PRC-029-1 and a definition of “Ride-through.” These rules apply to synchronous generators, Type 1 and Type 2 wind resources, synchronous condensers, and inverter-based resources to help keep the power system steady during frequency and voltage changes.
Stricter Exemption Paperwork for Legacy Equipment
The Commission directed NERC to clarify documentation requirements for legacy equipment that supports exemption requests under Reliability Standard PRC-029-1 and to consider two exception/exemption issues raised by commenters. NERC must also file an informational report assessing the reliability impact of those exemptions.
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