Ensuring NERC PRC-029-1 Compliance for Inverter-Based Resources

A Coordinated Electric System Interconnection Review—the utility’s deep-dive on technical and cost impacts of your project.

Challenge: Frequent false tripping using conventional electromechanical relays
Solution: SEL-487E integration with multi-terminal differential protection and dynamic inrush restraint
Result: 90% reduction in false trips, saving over $250,000 in downtime

As the electric grid continues its transition to renewable energy, the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) has introduced PRC-029-1—a critical ride-through compliance standard for Inverter-Based Resources (IBRs) such as solar, wind, and battery energy storage systems (BESS). This standard requires IBRs to remain connected during specific frequency and voltage excursions, enhancing grid reliability and supporting power system stability during disturbances.

At Keentel Engineering, we specialize in NERC compliance engineering services, helping renewable energy developers ensure their projects meet and exceed mandatory standards like PRC-029-1—efficiently, accurately, and cost-effectively.

PRC-029-1: Frequency and Voltage Ride-Through Requirements for Inverter-Based Resources (IBRs)

Purpose:

PRC-029-1 is a critical NERC reliability standard that outlines the ride-through requirements for Inverter-Based Resources (IBRs). It ensures that IBRs—such as solar, wind, and battery energy storage systems—remain connected and operational during abnormal grid conditions, including frequency and voltage excursions. This continuous operation supports the stability of the Bulk Power System (BPS) during disturbances. You can view the official NERC PRC-029-1 standard for complete technical details and regulatory guidelines.

Applicability:

PRC-029-1 applies to Generator Owners (GOs) of the following:
➤ Non-BES IBRs with an aggregate capacity of 20 MVA or more, connected at voltages ≥ 60 kV
➤ Bulk Electric System (BES) inverter-based resources

your project’s interconnection approval, certification, and future NERC audit outcomes. Non-compliance may also expose projects to penalties, fines, or costly retrofits.

Timely and accurate PRC-029-1 compliance ensures the following critical benefits:

Enhanced grid reliability during operational events such as faults, switching actions, or voltage excursions
Seamless integration into Transmission Provider (TP) and Independent System Operator (ISO) operations
Protection from delays, compliance enforcement actions, and expensive post-construction modifications

Meeting this standard is not only about regulatory alignment—it’s also a proactive step toward long-term system stability and operational success.

With over 30 years of experience in power system engineering, Keentel Engineering delivers comprehensive NERC compliance solutions, including full support for PRC-029-1 ride-through requirements. Our team partners with renewable energy developers, EPC contractors, and utility operators to ensure their projects meet all regulatory obligations efficiently and accurately.

We provide end-to-end PRC-029-1 compliance engineering services, including:

Ride-through simulation studies using PSSE, PSCAD, and other industry-leading tools
Protection and control setting review to validate IBR system response
Dynamic model validation for regulatory submission and interconnection readiness
Disturbance Monitoring System (DMS) setup and integration
Hardware limitation analysis with formal documentation for exemption eligibility
Regulatory liaison with Planning Coordinators (PC), Transmission Planners (TP), and Reliability Coordinators (RC) for exemption handling and compliance assurance

Keentel Engineering is a trusted partner for NERC compliance and ride-through engineering services, delivering results with precision, speed, and reliability. Here’s why industry leaders choose us:

✔ Licensed Professional Engineers (P.E.s) operating across multiple U.S. states

✔ A proven track record of successful compliance with major grid operators including ERCOT, CAISO, PJM, MISO, and SPP

✔ Fast turnaround on technical studies to meet critical interconnection deadlines

✔ Cost-effective engineering consulting for both utility-scale and mid-sized distributed energy projects

From dynamic modeling to audit support, we offer complete coverage tailored to your project’s needs.

Who must comply with PRC-029-1?
A: All Generator Owners of IBRs connected at or above 60 kV and those contributing to ≥20 MVA aggregate must ensure compliance.
What is considered a Ride-Through violation?
A: Any tripping of IBRs during specified voltage/frequency excursions outside of allowable conditions without appropriate documentation is considered a violation.
What types of evidence are required for audits?
A: Disturbance recordings, simulation results, plant settings, and documentation from system operators (TP, RC, PC, TO) confirming compliance or exemptions.
What if my system has hardware limitations?
A: Keentel Engineering assists with documenting exemptions, identifying root causes, and filing with appropriate regulatory bodies within NERC’s timeline.
What software is used in compliance studies?
A: Keentel uses PSSE, PSCAD, ASPEN, and other advanced tools to model and verify ride-through capabilities

In 1995, Sandip (Sonny) R. Patel earned his Electrical Engineering degree from the University of Illinois, specializing in Electrical Engineering . But degrees don’t build legacies—action does. For three decades, he’s been shaping the future of engineering, not just as a licensed Professional Engineer across multiple states (Florida, California, New York, West Virginia, and Minnesota), but as a doer. A builder. A leader. Not just an engineer. A Licensed Electrical Contractor in Florida with an Unlimited EC license. Not just an executive. The founder and CEO of KEENTEL LLC—where expertise meets execution. Three decades. Multiple states. Endless impact.