NERC Alert: Ensuring Reliability in Inverter-Based Resource (IBR) Model Quality

Introduction

As solar, wind, and battery-based Inverter-Based Resources (IBRs) rapidly expand across the Bulk Power System (BPS), NERC has identified reliability risks due to poor model quality. On June 4, 2024, the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) issued a Level 2 Industry Recommendation Alert addressing widespread IBR dynamic modeling deficiencies.

At Keentel Engineering, we help Generator Owners (GOs), Transmission Planners (TPs), and Planning Coordinators (PCs) align with these NERC recommendations, supporting compliance, planning accuracy, and system stability across all interconnection and reliability study phases.

The Issue: Real Events Trigger Real Concerns

Between 2016 and 2024, over 15,000 MW of IBR generation was lost during disturbances—10,000 MW of which occurred in just the last four years. Investigations revealed that modeling inaccuracies and poor validation were major contributing factors.

This NERC alert urges all responsible entities to improve their dynamic models to avoid large-scale grid failures.

Who Is Impacted by the NERC IBR Alert?

• Generator Owners (GOs) of BPS-connected IBRs: PV, wind, BESS, hybrids
• Transmission Planners (TPs) and Planning Coordinators (PCs)
• Inverter manufacturers, plant controller vendors, and consultants

NERC Alert: Key Recommendations

1. Accurate and Validated Models

• Models must match as-built configurations and behavior
• Validate both inverter and plant-level models
• Maintain benchmarking proof of accuracy

2. Standard PSPD Models: Base Case Only

• Use only for system-wide base cases
• Do not use for local studies without verification

3. Use Equipment-Specific Models

• Required for local studies and interconnection requests
• Must include validation reports and  .dll  files

4–5. Model Submission & QA

• TPs/PCs should define submission standards
• Must accept PSPD and EMT validated models

6–8. GO Responsibilities

• Work with manufacturers on model accuracy
• Keep models up to date with lifecycle changes
• Ensure models are ready for TP/PC submissions
  
  

Proof of model accuracy (e.g., benchmarking reports) must be maintained.

NERC Compliance Deadlines

Additional notes:

• Each GO must submit a Data Submission Worksheet
• TPs/PCs must respond to modeling practice questions

Why Model Quality Matters

Inaccurate models impair planners’ ability to simulate grid response accurately. Even small mismatches can cause cascading outages. NERC’s alert emphasizes that reliability starts with high-fidelity models reflecting real-world performance.

➡️ Read How Power System Modeling Ensures Grid Stability

How Keentel Engineering Supports Compliance

Keentel Engineering offers complete technical support for NERC alert response:

• PSPD and EMT model validation
• Manufacturer coordination for conformance
• Benchmarking report preparation
• Submission worksheet completion
• NERC documentation and review assistance

➡️ Explore our NERC Compliance Services

FAQs on NERC IBR Modeling Alert

Compliance Starts with Accuracy – Let’s Talk

Is your organization ready to respond by the September 2 deadline?

Keentel Engineering can manage the full model validation and submission lifecycle, giving you clarity and confidence under NERC scrutiny.