The Review of fault management and resolution timescales was introduced when a report from (TAPAP) found that the timescales for fixing faults were unclear; and insufficient guidance was provided on which party involved in the faults process was responsible for each step.
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The Issue Report was tabled at the Panel's meeting in November 2019.
Summary
Following a Technical Assurance of Performance Assurance Parties (TAPAP) audit conducted by Elexon in 2013, it was found that the fault investigation process described in the Balancing and Settlement Code (BSC) documentation was not enabling the effective resolution of identified faults and could be improved to be more efficient. The report found that the timescales for fixing faults were unclear; and insufficient guidance was provided on which party involved in the faults process was responsible for each step.
A group of industry experts came together as the Fault Investigation Review Group (FIRG) to review the faults process and propose changes. The FIRG met throughout 2015 and produced a list of recommendations for improvements to the faults process. The BSC Auditor highlighted unresolved Metering System faults as a key issue in the 2017/18 audit report. As a result, this Issue will review the recommendations of the FIRG and, progress those which are still appropriate.
SSE has informed Elexon that it believes there are similar problems with Licensed Distribution System Operator (LDSO) fault management. The Party specifically highlighted the ambiguity around timescales, and responsibility for resolving faults. This can be problematic when the party attempting to resolve the fault is not the equipment owner. The implementation of P283 ‘Reinforcing the Commissioning of Metering Equipment Processes’ clearly defined the responsibilities of Commissioning of certain Metering Equipment, placing the obligation on the equipment owner. This principle could be extended to the rectification of faults. BSCP514 currently places all obligations around fault rectification on the MOA but where the fault is with equipment owned by the LDSO then the Meter Operator Agent (MOA) is rarely able to take rectification actions.