Ensuring Bulk Power System Reliability with MOD-032-2 & DER Modeling

The evolving energy landscape—marked by a rapid increase in Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), regulatory reforms, and growing decarbonization targets—demands more robust power system modeling frameworks that accurately reflect DER behavior across both utility-scale and behind-the-meter systems. One critical step toward this goal is the refinement of data collection standards and guidelines, particularly the MOD-032-2 Reliability Standard and NERC’s DER Data Collection for Modeling Reliability Guideline.

This blog delves into how MOD-032-2 aligns with the latest NERC DER modeling requirements and why precise, standardized data collection is indispensable for transmission planning, dynamic system stability, and reliable BES operation.

MOD-032-2: Purpose and Key Updates

Evolution from MOD-032-1 to MOD-032-2

The MOD-032 series sets the standard for data submission needed for accurate power system modeling. MOD-032-2, issued in May 2023, enhances the applicability, clarity, and reliability of data submitted by Transmission Owners (TOs), Distribution Providers (DPs), and other entities to Planning Coordinators (PCs) and Transmission Planners (TPs).

One significant revision was the replacement of Load Serving Entity (LSE) with Distribution Provider (DP). This shift aligns with the NERC Compliance Registry, which removed LSEs as a registered entity type. Consequently, data obligations that previously applied to LSEs are now directed at DPs, ensuring a clearer line of responsibility for data reporting.

DER-Focused Enhancements

The increasing penetration of DERs—including rooftop solar, battery storage, and smart inverters—has prompted MOD-032-2 to explicitly incorporate DER-related data into its framework. Updates include:

• New DER data line item in Attachment 1
• Provisions for both Utility-scale DER (U-DER) and Behind-the-Meter DER (R-DER)
• Emphasis on aggregated DER data for modeling purposes
  

These revisions aim to integrate DER into transmission planning studies and ensure its impact on system behavior is not underestimated.

Clarifying Applicability and Definitions

Why MOD-032-2’s DER Definition Is Critical for Modeling Reliability

A key part of MOD-032-2 is its thoughtful and industry-aligned DER definition, drawing from NERC’s Glossary and the SPIDERWG discussions. It emphasizes:

• Facilities that produce active power
• Non-isolated parallel operation with the Bulk Power System (BPS)
• Exclusion of technologies like EV chargers or isolated generators

This clarity ensures that only DERs capable of impacting grid stability are subject to modeling requirements, avoiding overreach into DER types that pose negligible risk to BPS reliability.

MOD-032-2 and DER Data Collection: Interfacing with Reliability Guidelines

The Reliability Guideline: DER Data Collection for Modeling provides comprehensive support for MOD-032-2 compliance. Its primary goals are:

1. Standardizing data collection formats
2. Facilitating modeling practices that reflect actual DER behavior
3. Bridging the gap between DPs and PCs/TPs

The guideline offers detailed tables, diagrams, and appendices that show the types of DER data required, such as:

• MW/MVAR ratings
• Control modes and settings
• Ride-through capabilities
• Voltage and frequency set points
  

It also promotes use of in-service dates to estimate compliance with IEEE 1547-based requirements.

Benefits of Standardized DER Modeling

1. Enhanced Grid Reliability

When DERs are modeled accurately, planners can simulate contingencies with greater precision. This allows for better visibility into:

• Voltage stability
• Frequency response
• Dynamic performance during fault conditions
  

2. Improved UFLS and UVLS Program Design

Accurate modeling of DER tripping behavior is critical for Underfrequency Load Shedding (UFLS) and Undervoltage Load Shedding (UVLS) programs. MOD-032-2 supports these programs by requiring DPs to identify:

• DERs subject to automatic disconnection
• Proportions of DER populations linked to various trip stages
  

3. Streamlined Planning and Interconnection

• With consistent and complete DER data, Planning Coordinators can build better interconnection
• wide base cases, ensuring that DER growth does not undermine bulk system performance.
  

This enables system planners to align with interconnection requirements under NERC and ISO/RTO frameworks, ensuring accurate forecasting and risk mitigation.

Practical Implementation Considerations

Aggregation vs. Individual DER Data

MOD-032-2 generally supports aggregated DER data to reduce the reporting burden. However, Footnote 4 gives PC/TPs discretion to request unaggregated data if local planning needs warrant it.

Best Practice: Coordinate early between DPs and PCs to clarify expectations on DER granularity.

Coordination Through Binding Agreements

For DPs or facilities not registered under NERC, MOD-032-2 expects TOs to coordinate data acquisition via:

• Interconnection Agreements
• Procurement Contracts
• Data Sharing MOUs
  

This ensures no DER-connected bus goes unmodeled, regardless of registration status.

Challenges and Gaps

Despite its clarity, several challenges remain:

• Variability in DER control logic across jurisdictions
• Limited observability of behind-the-meter assets
• Lack of consistent standards for feeder modeling tools
  

Additionally, many smaller utilities may struggle with the technical expertise needed to interpret DER behavior dynamically.

Smaller utilities may need external support or modeling partners.

Next Steps for Utilities and Planners

1. Update Modeling Procedures

All registered entities should revise their internal modeling guides to include the new DER data types mandated by MOD-032-2 and outlined in the DER guideline.

2. Leverage the In-Service Date

Use the DER’s commissioning date to infer compliance with evolving standards (e.g., IEEE 1547-2018 ride-through requirements).

3. Train Staff on DER Modeling Tools

Invest in training on DER_A models, PSSE, PowerFactory, and TSAT tools to integrate DER characteristics into simulations.

4. Clarify Net vs. Gross Demand

MOD-032-2 clarifies that gross demand should be reported—not net demand. This avoids errors from misattributing DER production as load reduction, which can skew dynamic simulation results.

Final Thoughts

The MOD-032-2 update represents a crucial evolution in how we model modern electric grids. By prioritizing DER visibility and data accuracy, it enhances the ability of planners to safeguard reliability, resilience, and security in the face of a rapidly transforming energy mix.

Through consistent collaboration between DPs, TOs, PCs, and TPs—and using the detailed DER Data Collection Guideline as a roadmap—utilities can ensure that DERs are no longer blind spots in the planning landscape but active contributors to a stable, modern grid.

MOD-032-2 isn't just a compliance checkbox—it’s a foundation for future-ready power grid planning, improved dynamic simulation, and responsible DER integration at scale.

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