1. 1 Communications Protocols Issues Update System Operator Conference May 1-3, 2012 Columbia, SC Herb Schrayshuen, VP Standards and Training, NERC

2. 2012 System Operator Conference 2 Learning Objective At the conclusion of this session you will understand the status of the communications issues in the development of the proposed COM-002 interpretation and the proposed COM-003 standard.

3. 2012 System Operator Conference 3 Outline of Topics COM-002 Interpretation COM-003 Standard Development NERC Technical Guide (OC) RSAW development for the COM-002 Interpretation Upcoming Petition for approval of COM-002 interpretation

4. 2012 System Operator Conference 4 COM-002 Interpretation The interpretation drafting team concluded that: Requirement R2 of COM-002-2 does not specify the conditions under which a directive is issued That the requirements in the standard only apply when a directive is issued to address a real-time emergency. However the Trustees also believe the current COM-002, as interpreted is not adequate to the task of achieving effective operations communication.

5. 2012 System Operator Conference 5 COM-002 Interpretation With the interpretation of the standard there will exist a reliability concern which must be addressed on an expedited basis. Steps to fill that gap include –COM-003 development (Project 2007-02 Operating Communications Protocols) –RSAW –Technical Guide –Compliance Guidance

6. 2012 System Operator Conference 6 COM-003 Purpose: To specify clear, formal and universally applied communication protocols that reduce the possibility of miscommunication which could lead to action or inaction harmful to the reliability of BES A new paradigm for communications is being proposed based not on an emergency condition or declaration but on changes to the “state” of the system. Three Part Communication – 2 Requirements: one for sender; one for the receiver. Proven written and verbal communication protocols that clarify intent, time, equipment details and language during operations on the BES.

7. 2012 System Operator Conference 7 NERC Reliability Guideline The OC is preparing a Reliability Guideline for communications to supplement the petition and address the inquiries from the trustees in February. Reliability Guidelines are addressed in the OC charter in Appendix 3. Link: http://www.nerc.com/docs/docs/oc/OC_Charter_approved_02.16.10.pdf

8. 2012 System Operator Conference 8 Reliability Standard Audit Worksheet NERC Compliance, in conjunction with industry, is working on a new RSAW to go with the COM-002 interpretation. Key points include: –Addressing internal controls –Provide link to OC Reliability Guidelines document –Clear statement of the BOTs approved interpretation

9. 2012 System Operator Conference 9 Petition for Approval of COM-002 Interpretation With BOT approval in February the petition for approval is being prepared The scope of the petition will include all of the topics discussed here: Enhanced RSAW for COM-002 Reliability Guideline for Communications Protocols (NERC OC) Expedited completion of COM-003 Interim compliance guidance

10. 2012 System Operator Conference 10 Summary The main points are: Communications is key to reliable operations. The interpretation of COM-002 as applying only to emergencies creates a reliability concern A new approach is being developed Interim measures and guidance are under development.

11. 2012 System Operator Conference 11 Questions?