Issue 32: Black Start
Current Status
Summary
As a result of a recent Black Start exercise, a number of learning points and process improvements have been identified that are relevant to Elexon’s role and the successful suspension and recommencement of market arrangements as part of a Black Start. In particular, the following areas were identified where work could be undertaken to ensure that any Black Start progressed smoothly from a BSC perspective:
1. The arrangements for the formal declaration of the start of a Black Start under the BSC and calculation of the Imbalance Price.
a. When does the confirmation of the Settlement Period that forms the commencement of the Black Start Period need to be declared?
b. How will its declaration be communicated?
c. Consider what guidance can be given as to how imbalance prices should be set to support the Panel process during a Black Start?
d. Consider whether further guidance and clarity as to Black Start compensation arrangements can be given in the BSC and associated documentation, including recommendation for change to BSC in this area by Grid Code Black Start Working Group?
2. Appropriate arrangements, processes and timetables to successfully reinstate the market following a Black Start.
Consideration should be given to developing criteria that the Panel can use to determine reinstatement of the market as well as the outline processes and arrangements to cover timescales, data and audit requirements, liaison with participants and National Grid, alignment with Grid Code arrangements and ‘run in’ to going live.
3. Elexon’s business continuity requirements specifically related to its role during a Black Start. Suggest consideration is given to
a. Communications via website, telephone and email
b. Response to queries from industry
c. Robustness of information systems during and following a black start to ensure these can facilitate timely re-instatement of the market
We suggest that for all three areas above, consideration should be given by the Issue group as how best to establish arrangements to expedite the BSC processes during a Black Start and also to ensure that participants will understand how this should work with the overall aims ensuring:
– Timely progression of BSC processes during a Black Start
– Good co-ordination with other industry and government bodies and in particular with Grid Code Black Start arrangements
– How best to minimise industry uncertainty and queries to Elexon during a Black Start.
Progression
The Group has concluded its discussions. The Issue report sets out a number of recommended clarifications and additions for Section G of the Code (Contingencies). The Group has developed a common ‘claims’ process for claims under either Black Start or and FSC period. The Group has also highlighted some further areas for consideration that do not relate directly to the BSC.
It is proposed that these changes are progressed via a single Modification. Elexon has offered to assist in the drafting of a Modification and a Party has indicated willingness to raise a Modification. Due to cross industry resource constraints it is suggested this Modification be progressed after the summer. The Group members have kindly agreed to provide input to any draft Modification and we will discuss the content with Ofgem.