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When it comes to ensuring grid reliability, capacity resources play a critical role in ISO New England (ISO-NE). These resources are obligated to meet stringent requirements to ensure they’re available when the grid needs them most. From maintaining availability to facing penalties for non-performance, capacity resources must adhere to a structured compliance process. But how do these obligations stack up against those in other markets like PJM and MISO?
In this blog post, we’ll explore the key obligations for capacity resources in ISO-NE, including availability requirements, penalties for non-performance, and compliance processes. We’ll also compare these obligations to those in PJM and MISO, giving you a broader perspective on how different markets approach capacity resource management.
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What are the key obligations for capacity resources in ISO-NE?
In ISO New England, capacity resources are bound by several obligations to ensure they contribute to grid reliability. These obligations are part of the Forward Capacity Market (FCM), which secures capacity three years in advance of the delivery period.
Availability: Capacity resources in ISO-NE must be available to deliver energy during critical periods, especially when the grid is under stress. This includes both summer and winter peak periods. Resources are tested for their capability to meet their Capacity Supply Obligation (CSO) during these times.
Penalties for non-performance: ISO-NE enforces strict penalties for resources that fail to meet their obligations. If a resource doesn’t perform during a Capacity Scarcity Condition, it’s subject to a Non-Performance Penalty. This penalty is calculated based on the resource’s shortfall in performance during scarcity intervals.
Compliance processes: ISO-NE has a structured compliance process to ensure resources meet their obligations. Market participants must submit documentation, such as restoration plans, if their capacity decreases significantly. Seasonal or annual CSO bilaterals can also be submitted to adjust obligations.
These requirements ensure that capacity resources are not just committed on paper but are genuinely available to support the grid when needed.
How do ISO-NE’s obligations compare to PJM and MISO?
While ISO-NE’s capacity resource obligations are robust, they’re not unique. Other markets like PJM and MISO have similar frameworks, but with some key differences.
PJM: In PJM, capacity resources are part of the Reliability Pricing Model (RPM). Like ISO-NE, PJM requires resources to be available during peak periods. However, PJM’s Capacity Performance framework imposes even stricter penalties for non-performance. Resources that fail to deliver during Performance Assessment Intervals face a Non-Performance Charge, which can be significant. PJM also allows a broader range of resources, including energy efficiency and demand response, to participate as Capacity Performance Resources.
MISO: MISO’s approach to capacity obligations is slightly different. Resources must pass a deliverability test to qualify as capacity resources, ensuring they can reliably serve load within the region. MISO also emphasizes the importance of firm transmission service for resources that don’t meet deliverability requirements. Penalties for non-compliance in MISO are tied to the cost of procuring replacement capacity in the Planning Resource Auction.
While the core principles of availability, penalties, and compliance are consistent across these markets, the specific rules and enforcement mechanisms vary, reflecting the unique needs and challenges of each region.
Why these obligations matter
Capacity resource obligations are the backbone of grid reliability in ISO-NE, PJM, and MISO. They ensure that resources are not just committed but are genuinely capable of supporting the grid during critical periods. By understanding these obligations, market participants can better navigate the complexities of capacity markets and contribute to a more reliable energy system.
Whether you’re a market participant in ISO-NE, PJM, or MISO, staying informed about capacity resource obligations is essential. These rules don’t just ensure compliance—they’re a vital part of maintaining grid stability and meeting the energy needs of millions of consumers.
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