The Electric Reliability Council of Texas
Distributed Generation (DG)
Protocol References
ERCOT Staff
8-20-2015
Distributed Generation, “DG” and “DRG” Protocol References
The following represents a snapshot of many ERCOT Protocols relevant to DERs, as of the publication date (Aug. 20, 2015) of the ERCOT Staff
Concept Paper on Distributed Energy Resources in the ERCOT Region. Please note that the ERCOT Protocols are subject to change at any time.
Protocol
Section
Protocol Reference and Wording
Summary of Findings:
1. References to Distributed Generation, DG, or DRG references:
 7 Protocol sections Do contain (Table of Contents Do Contain)
 18 Protocol sections Do Not contain
2. Of the 7 sections containing language, there are approximately 60 references
3. Many references to “Distributed Generation Threshold. Reference itself would not have to change - the change would be to
how it is defined in Section 16.5.
4. Most references found in 2 sections:
 11: Data Acquisition and Aggregation and
 16: Registration and Qualification of Market Participants
5. Potential additions:
 Adding or changing language in Protocols that do contain references
 Add new sections on Distributed Generation similar to other new products like Loads in SCED, ERS Weather Sensitive
Loads
Specifics of Protocol references follow.
Source: ERCOT Staff
August 2015
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Distributed Generation, “DG” and “DRG” Protocol References
Protocol
Section
1
Overview
Protocol Reference and Wording
1.3.1.1
Items Considered Protected Information
Subject to the exclusions set out in Section 1.3.1.2, Items Not Considered Protected Information, and in Section
3.2.5, Publication of Resource and Load Information, “Protected Information” is information containing or revealing
any of the following:
(ee)
2
Definitions
and
Acronyms
Status of Non-Modeled Generators and Distributed Generation, including Outages, limitations, or
scheduled or metered Resource data. The Protected Information status of this information shall expire
60 days after the applicable Operating Day.
Definitions
Distributed Generation (DG)
An electrical generating facility located at a Customer’s point of delivery (point of common coupling) ten megawatts
(MW) or less and connected at a voltage less than or equal to 60 kilovolts (kV) which may be connected in parallel
operation to the utility system.
Distributed Renewable Generation (DRG)
Electric generation with a capacity of not more than 2,000 kW provided by a renewable energy technology that is
installed on a retail electric Customer’s side of the meter.
Acronyms
Source: ERCOT Staff
DG
Distributed Generation
DRG
Distributed Renewable Generation
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Distributed Generation, “DG” and “DRG” Protocol References
Protocol
Section
3
Management
Activities for
the ERCOT
System
Protocol Reference and Wording
3.14
Contracts for Reliability Resources and Emergency Response Service Resources
ERCOT shall procure Reliability Must-Run (RMR) Service, Black Start Service (BSS) or Emergency Response
Service (ERS) through Agreements.
3.14.1
(1)
Reliability Must Run
RMR Service is the use by ERCOT, under contracts with Resource Entities, of capacity and energy from
Generation Resources that otherwise would not operate and that are necessary to provide voltage support,
stability or management of localized transmission constraints under applicable reliability criteria, where
market solutions do not exist. This includes service provided by RMR Units and Must-Run Alternative
(MRA) Resources.
(b) Before entering into an RMR Agreement, ERCOT shall assess alternatives to the proposed RMR
Agreement. ERCOT shall evaluate and present in a written report posted on the Market Information
System (MIS) Secure Area the information in items (i) through (v) below. ERCOT is not limited in the
number of additional scenarios it chooses to evaluate. The written report shall include an explanation as
to why the items below are insufficient, either alone or in combination, to fill the requirement that will be
met by the potential RMR Unit. The report shall be posted in the time frame required under paragraph (3)
of Section 3.14.1.2, ERCOT Evaluation. The list of alternatives ERCOT must consider includes (as
reasonable for each type of reliability concern identified):
(v) Resource alternatives, including capabilities of Distributed Generation (DG), Load Resources, Direct
Current Ties (DC Ties), Block Load Transfers (BLTs), etc.
10
Metering
Source: ERCOT Staff
10.2
Scope of Metering Responsibilities
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Distributed Generation, “DG” and “DRG” Protocol References
Protocol
Section
Protocol Reference and Wording
10.2.2
(1)
TSP and DSP Metered Entities
Each Transmission Service Provider (TSP) and Distribution Service Provider (DSP) is responsible for
supplying ERCOT with meter data associated with:
(a)
All Loads using the ERCOT System;
(b)
Any All-Inclusive Generation Resource that delivers less than ten MW to the ERCOT System and that
is connected directly to the distribution system; a DSP may make some or all such meters ERCOTPolled Settlement (EPS) compliant and may request that ERCOT poll the meters. Notwithstanding
the foregoing sentence, meter data is not required from:
(i) Generation owned by a Non-Opt-In Entity (NOIE) and used for the NOIE’s self-use (not serving Customer
Load);
(ii) Distributed Renewable Generation (DRG) with a design capacity less than 50 kW interconnected to a DSP
where the owner chooses not to have the out-flow measured in accordance with P.U.C. SUBST. R. 25.213,
Metering for Distributed Renewable Generation; and
(iii)Distributed Generation (DG) interconnected to a DSP behind a registered NOIE boundary metering point, not
registered as a Generation Resource and with an installed capacity below the DG registration threshold, as
determined in Section 16.5, Registration of a Resource Entity, and posted on the Market Information System (MIS)
Public Area.
6
RTM
Settlement
6.6.3.2
(h)
Real-Time Energy Imbalance Payment or Charge at a Load Zone
The aggregated generation of its Non-Modeled Generators in the Load Zone.
RTEIAMT q, p
q, p
Source: ERCOT Staff
=
(-1) * {[RTSPP p * [(SSSK q, p * ¼) + (DAEP q, p * ¼) + (RTQQEP q, p * ¼) – (SSSR
* ¼) – (DAES q, p * ¼) – (RTQQES q, p * ¼)]] + [RTSPPEW p * (RTMGNM q, p – RTAML q, p)]}
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Distributed Generation, “DG” and “DRG” Protocol References
Protocol
Section
Protocol Reference and Wording
RTMGNM: Real-Time Metered Generation from Non-Modeled generators per QSE per Settlement Point—The total RealTime energy produced by Non-Modeled Generators represented by QSE q in Load Zone Settlement Point p, for the 15-minute
Settlement Interval.
Table of Contents: Section 11
11
Data
Acquisition
and
Aggregation
11.4.4.2
Load Reduction for Excess PhotoVoltaic and Wind Distributed Renewable Generation
11.4.4.3
Load Reduction for Excess from Other Distributed Generation
11.4.4.2
(1)
11-5
Load Reduction for Excess PhotoVoltaic and Wind Distributed Renewable Generation
Adjusted Metered Load (AML) for ESI IDs with PhotoVoltaic (PV) generation shall be adjusted as follows:
For ESI IDs with non-IDRs installed, AML shall be reduced for excess generation from ESI IDs with PV
generation equal to or lower than the Distributed Generation (DG) registration threshold behind the meter
where there is a meter that measures excess energy flow into the ERCOT System in a separate register. Only
ESI IDs that have been assigned a PV profile segment as specified in Load Profiling Guide Appendix D,
Profile Decision Tree, shall be eligible for this reduction.
Intervals beginning 1100 and ending 1500 Central Prevailing Time (CPT) (spanning (16) 15-minute intervals)
shall be reduced by the following amount:
PV_adjust i = kWh_gen / (read_days * 16)
The above variables are defined as follows:
Variable
Unit
Description
Source: ERCOT Staff
PV_adjust i
kWh_gen
kWh
kWh
read_days
days
Reduction for PV excess generation for interval i.
Actual (measured) kWh flowing into the Distribution System (out-flow
from the Premise).
Number of days in meter read period.
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Distributed Generation, “DG” and “DRG” Protocol References
Protocol
Section
Protocol Reference and Wording
(2)
AML for ESI IDs with wind generation shall be adjusted as follows:
For ESI IDs with non-IDRs installed, AML shall be reduced for excess generation from ESI IDs with wind
generation equal to or lower than the DG registration threshold behind the meter where there is a meter that
measures excess energy flow into the ERCOT System in a separate register. Only ESI IDs that have been
assigned a wind profile segment as specified in the Load Profiling Guide Appendix D, shall be eligible for
this reduction.
Intervals beginning 0800 and ending 2000 CPT (spanning (48) 15-minute intervals) shall be reduced by the
following amount:
Wind_adjust = kWh_gen * .65 / (read_days * 48)
All other intervals in the day (the remaining 48 intervals) shall be reduced by the following amount:
Wind_adjust = kWh_gen * .35 / ((read_days * 48) + DST adjust)
Where:
Variable
Unit
Description
wind_adjusti
kWh_gen
kWh
kWh
read_days
DST adjust
days
N/A
Reduction for wind excess generation for interval i.
Actual (measured) kWh flowing into the Distribution System (out-flow
from the Premise).
Number of days in meter read period.
Daylight Savings Time Adjustment: Spring DST = -4; Fall DST
= 4.
(3)
Source: ERCOT Staff
The excess generation adjustments for ESI IDs, which have PV or wind generation of equal to or lower than
August 2015
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Distributed Generation, “DG” and “DRG” Protocol References
Protocol
Section
Protocol Reference and Wording
the DG registration threshold, as described in Section 16.5, Registration of a Resource Entity, behind the
meter and that have an Advanced Metering System (AMS) integrated meter that measures the excess energy
flow into the ERCOT System in 15-minute intervals, shall be determined using the actual 15-minute interval
data, if available.
11.4.4.3
Load Reduction for Excess from Other Distributed Generation
(1) AML for ESI IDs with DG that is neither PV nor wind shall be adjusted as follows:
For ESI IDs with non-IDRs installed, AML shall be reduced for excess generation from ESI IDs with DG
generation of equal to or lower than the DG registration threshold behind the meter where there is a meter that
measures excess energy flow into the ERCOT System in a separate register. Only ESI IDs that have been
assigned a DG profile segment as specified in Load Profiling Guide Appendix D, Profile Decision Tree, shall
be eligible for this reduction.
All intervals in the meter read period shall be reduced by the following amount:
DG _adjust i = kWh_gen / read_ints
The above variables are defined as follows:
Variable
Unit
Description
DG_adjust i
kWh_gen
kWh
kWh
read_ints
Intervals
(2)
Source: ERCOT Staff
Reduction for excess DG for interval i.
Actual (measured) kWh flowing into the Distribution System (out-flow
from the Premise).
Number of 15-minute intervals in the meter read period.
The energy reduction adjustment for ESI IDs, which have DG equal to or lower than the DG
registration threshold behind the meter and have an AMS integrated meter that measures the excess
August 2015
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Distributed Generation, “DG” and “DRG” Protocol References
Protocol
Section
Protocol Reference and Wording
energy flow into the ERCOT System in 15-minute intervals, shall be determined using the actual 15minute interval data, if available.
16
Registration
and
Qualification
of Market
Participants
16.5
(1)
Registration of a Resource Entity
A Resource Entity owns or controls an All-Inclusive Resource connected to the ERCOT System. Each
Resource Entity operating in the ERCOT Region must register with ERCOT. To become registered as a
Resource Entity, an Entity must execute a Standard Form Market Participant Agreement (using the form in
Section 22, Attachment A, Standard Form Market Participant Agreement), designate Resource Entity
Authorized Representatives, contacts, and a User Security Administrator (USA) (per the Application for
Registration as a Resource Entity), and demonstrate to ERCOT’s reasonable satisfaction that it is capable of
performing the functions of a Resource Entity under these Protocols. The Resource Entity shall provide
Resource Registration data pursuant to Planning Guide Section 6.8.2, Resource Registration Process, for each
All-Inclusive Resource through ERCOT registration, except for Distributed Generation (DG) with an
installed capacity equal to or lower than the DG registration threshold. A Resource Entity may submit a
proposal to register the aggregation of non-wind generators as an Aggregate Generation Resource (AGR)
which ERCOT may grant at its sole discretion.
[NPRR588: Replace paragraph (1) above with the following upon system implementation:]
(1)
Source: ERCOT Staff
A Resource Entity owns or controls an All-Inclusive Resource connected to the ERCOT
System. Each Resource Entity operating in the ERCOT Region must register with
ERCOT. To become registered as a Resource Entity, an Entity must execute a Standard
Form Market Participant Agreement (using the form in Section 22, Attachment A,
Standard Form Market Participant Agreement), designate Resource Entity Authorized
Representatives, contacts, and a User Security Administrator (USA) (per the Application
for Registration as a Resource Entity), and demonstrate to ERCOT’s reasonable
satisfaction that it is capable of performing the functions of a Resource Entity under these
Protocols. The Resource Entity shall provide Resource Registration data pursuant to
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Distributed Generation, “DG” and “DRG” Protocol References
Protocol
Section
Protocol Reference and Wording
Planning Guide Section 6.8.2, Resource Registration Process, for each All-Inclusive
Resource through ERCOT registration, except for Distributed Generation (DG) with an
installed capacity equal to or lower than the DG registration threshold. A Resource
Entity may submit a proposal to register the aggregation of non-Intermittent Renewable
Resource (IRR) generators as an Aggregate Generation Resource (AGR) which ERCOT
may grant at its sole discretion.
16.5
Registration of
Resource
Entity
18.
Load Profiling
Source: ERCOT Staff
16.5
Registration of a Resource Entity
(5)
DG with an installed capacity greater than one MW, the DG registration threshold, must register with
ERCOT. ERCOT shall reduce the DG registration threshold as required by these Protocols and post this
requirement on the Market Information System (MIS) Public Area. ERCOT shall produce quarterly reports
on the total unregistered installed capacity of DG greater than 50 kW below the current threshold, summed by
Load Zone. Such quarterly report shall contain the current DG registration threshold. If the total installed
capacity of unregistered DG greater than 50 kW exceeds ten MW in any Load Zone, then ERCOT shall issue
a Market Notice that states a lower DG registration threshold. Such registration threshold shall be calculated
by ERCOT to reduce the total installed capacity of unregistered DG greater than 50 kW to no more than
seven MW in any Load Zone. This new DG registration threshold shall become effective nine months after
ERCOT has issued the Market Notice and posted the new requirement on the MIS Public Area.
Notwithstanding the above, at no time shall ERCOT reduce the DG registration threshold below 50 kW.
(6)
Following this Market Notice, ERCOT shall inform the appropriate Technical Advisory Committee (TAC)
subcommittee of the change in DG registration requirements at its next meeting. The subcommittee shall
analyze the quarterly report, and may take any action it deems appropriate, including submitting a Nodal
Protocol Revision Request (NPRR) to alter this Section
Table of Contents: Section 18
August 2015
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Distributed Generation, “DG” and “DRG” Protocol References
Protocol
Section
Protocol Reference and Wording
18.2 Methodology 9
18.2.1 Guidelines for Development of Load Profiles
18.2.2 Load Profiles for Non-Interval Metered Loads
18.2.2.1
Load Profiles for Non-Interval Metered Loads Without Distributed Generation
18.2.2.2
18.2
18.
Load Profiling
Methodology
(1)
ERCOT has developed Load Profiles for both non-interval metered Loads and Non-Metered Loads. A Load
Profiling Methodology is the fundamental basis on which Load Profiles are created. The implementation of a
Load Profiling Methodology may require statistical Sampling, engineering methods, econometric modeling,
or other approaches.
(2)
The following Load Profiling methods are used:
18.2.2
18.2.2.1
Source: ERCOT Staff
Load Profiles for Non-Interval Metered Loads With Distributed Generation
Type of Load
Load Profiling Methodology
Non-interval metered
Adjusted Static Models
Non-interval metered with
Distribute Generation (DG)
Adjusted Static Models and
engineering estimates
Non-metered
Engineering estimates
Load Profiles for Non-Interval Metered Loads
Load Profiles for Non-Interval Metered Loads Without Distributed Generation
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Distributed Generation, “DG” and “DRG” Protocol References
Protocol
Section
Protocol Reference and Wording
Load Profiles for non-interval metered Loads are created using statistical models developed from appropriate Load
research sample data. These models are referred to as adjusted static. These model equations relate daily Settlement
Interval Load patterns to relevant weather descriptors such as maximum and minimum dry-bulb temperature and
humidity. Other daily characteristics such as day-of-the-week and sunrise/sunset times are also employed.
18.2.2.2
Load Profiles for Non-Interval Metered Loads With Distributed Generation
Load Profiles for non-interval metered Loads that utilize DG (e.g., PhotoVoltaic (PV) or wind) will be created using
a hybrid approach. At least a portion of the Load Profile will be based on Adjusted Static Models, while engineering
estimates and/or generation models may be integrated as well or otherwise utilized.
Seventeen (17) Sections Do Not include any References:
4: Day-Ahead Operations
5: Transmission Security Analysis and Reliability Unit Commitment
6: Adjustment Period and Real-Time Operations
7: Congestion Revenue Rights
8: Performance Monitoring
9: Settlement and Billing
12: Market Information System
13: Transmission and Distribution Losses
Source: ERCOT Staff
August 2015
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Distributed Generation, “DG” and “DRG” Protocol References
Protocol
Section
Protocol Reference and Wording
14: State of Texas Renewable Energy Credits Trading Program
15: Customer Registration
17: Market Monitoring and Data Collection
19: Texas Standard Electronic Transaction
20: Alternate Dispute Resolution
21: Revision Request Process
23: Section Left Blank
24: Retail Point to Point Communications
No references found in Section 22:
22.
Attachment
Source: ERCOT Staff
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
K.
Standard From Market Participant Agreement
Standard Form Reliability Must-Run Agreement
Amendment to Standard Form Market Participant Agreement
Standard Form Market Participant Agreement
Notification of Suspension of Operations
Standard Form Synchronous Condenser Agreement
Standard Form Emergency Response Service Agreement
Notification of Change of Generation Resource Designation
Amendment to Standard Form Black Start Agreement
Annual Certification Form to Meet ERCOT Additional Minimum Participation Requirements
Declaration of Completion of Generation Resource Weatherization Preparations
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Distributed Generation, “DG” and “DRG” Protocol References
Protocol
Section
ERCOT Fee
Schedule
Table of
Contents
Protocol Reference and Wording
No reference
2 -17 Distributed Generation (DG)
2-17
2 -17 Distributed Renewable Generation (DRG)
11-14
11.4.4.3 Load Reduction for Excess from Other Distributed Generation
18-2
18.2.2.1 Load Profiles for Non-Interval Metered Loads Without Distributed Generation
18.2.2.2 Load Profiles for Non-Interval Metered Loads With Distributed Generation
Source: ERCOT Staff
August 2015
Page 13