NERC Compliance Services You Can Trust
Meet NERC O&P 693 Compliance and CIP standards with engineering-first solutions from licensed experts and former NERC auditors.
Our NERC compliance consultants specialize in helping power sector clients meet NERC 693 standards, including all aspects of O&P and RSAW requirements. With comprehensive NERC audit support and engineering services, we ensure regulatory alignment and operational excellence.
Why Choose Us
At Keentel Engineering, we take pride in being the go-to engineering firm for power and utility system planning, design, control, and analysis. Some of the many attributes of our company that set us apart are:
Client-Focused Work Approach
Our team works cohesively on every project and with every client. We first develop a solid understanding of your project goals, requirements, and needs. From concept to commissioning, we assist you in every step.
30 Years of Experience
We have over three decades of experience in design and interconnection. Rest assured, we have the knowledge, understanding, and expertise to handle and execute all types of projects with sheer perfection and superior workmanship.
Quality with Innovation
At Keentel Engineering, we have established our stellar market reputation on quality, work ethics, and innovation.
Attention-to-Detail
We work on every project with laser focus and attention to detail. This enables our team to deliver desired results with complete satisfaction.
Let's Discuss How to Optimize Your Next Project
Submit
We will get back to you as soon as possible.
Please try again later.
What Are NERC Compliance Services, and Who Needs Them?
NERC compliance services are engineering and regulatory support solutions designed to help power sector organizations meet the mandatory standards established by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC). These services include alignment with both NERC O&P 693 compliance standards and CIP cybersecurity requirements, ensuring that utilities remain secure, reliable, and audit-ready.
Entities that benefit most from these services include Generator Owners (GOs), Generator Operators (GOPs), Transmission Owners (TOs), Transmission Operators (TOPs), Load-Serving Entities (LSEs), and Balancing Authorities (BAs). By partnering with certified NERC compliance consultants, these organizations can effectively manage their risk exposure, avoid costly penalties, and meet stringent regional enforcement expectations.
Whether managing renewable energy portfolios, conventional generation fleets, or transmission infrastructure, working with an experienced team ensures all technical documentation, RSAW responses, and compliance evidence are defensible and aligned with FERC mandates and Regional Entity audits.
Trusted, Audit-Ready NERC Compliance Support Backed by Real Engineering Expertise
With over 27 years of experience, Keentel Engineering delivers trusted, full-scope NERC compliance services tailored to your operational roles and system functions. Our team includes former NERC audit team leads (ATLs), Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), and licensed professional engineers (P.E.s) who understand both sides of the compliance process.
We support utilities across North America with specialized services like:
- NERC audit support
- RSAW documentation
- Compliance testing and engineering validation
- FAC-008-3 and PRC-019 studies
- Ongoing NERC compliance program development
Keentel provides the technical clarity, audit readiness, and regulatory insight required to maintain your NERC 693 compliance, nerc o&p standards and regulations —whether for conventional generation, renewables, or IBR assets.
NERC Compliance Services Tailored to Your Grid Needs
We support Generator Owners (GO), Transmission Operators (TOP), and Balancing Authorities (BA) across North America in achieving and maintaining full compliance with NERC 693 O&P and CIP standards. Our engineering-first approach ensures every audit requirement is met with technical accuracy, regulatory clarity, and field-proven solutions.
Real Audit Expertise from Former NERC Auditors
Our team includes licensed engineers, former NERC audit team leads (ATLs), and seasoned subject matter experts (SMEs) who have participated in both sides of the audit process. This gives us a unique ability to provide hands-on support—from technical documentation to pre-audit readiness and post-audit mitigation.
Comprehensive NERC 693 O&P & CIP Support
We help power sector entities across the energy landscape remain aligned with evolving reliability standards. Whether you operate renewable energy assets, thermal generation, or high-voltage transmission systems, we deliver scalable compliance solutions aligned with FERC, regional reliability entities, and NERC mandates.
Core NERC Compliance & Engineering Services
Compliance Program Development
We build full-scope NERC compliance programs tailored to O&P 693 and CIP standards. Our engineering-first approach includes internal controls, audit defense strategies, and implementation plans specific to your asset classes and registered functions.
Gap Analysis & Risk Assessment
Our former NERC Auditors and Audit Team Leads (ATLs) conduct comprehensive gap analyses to identify potential noncompliance areas. This service includes mitigation planning and actionable strategies to reduce your regulatory exposure.
RSAW Technical Documentation
We prepare technically defensible RSAW packages, authored by Licensed Professional Engineers (P.E.s) and NERC Subject Matter Experts (SMEs). Each RSAW is designed to meet strict O&P 693 and CIP audit scrutiny.
PRC-028-1 & PRC-002-5 RSAW Support
We develop RSAW documentation and evidence packages for disturbance monitoring (PRC-002-5) and fault recording (PRC-028-1), helping ensure defensibility across event-driven audits.
FAC-008-3, PRC-019, and Model Validation
Our NERC compliance testing services include validation of facility ratings (FAC-008-3), protection coordination (PRC-019), and steady-state/dynamic model performance. We ensure data accuracy, relay coordination, and traceability.
Inverter-Based Resource (IBR) Model Validation
Keentel Engineering offers PRC-024-4 and PRC-029-1 ride-through and protection studies tailored for IBRs. We support renewable developers and Generator Owners (GOs) operating in CAISO, ERCOT, PJM, and other regions.
TPL-007-1 GIC Risk Mitigation
Our engineering team evaluates transformer vulnerability and system exposure to geomagnetic disturbances (GMD) under TPL-007-1, providing compliance support and thermal impact analysis.
NERC Align Portal Support & Mitigation Planning
We guide clients through the full NERC Align workflow including pre-submittal reviews, mitigation plan development, evidence uploads, and correspondence with Regional Entities.
Pre-Audit & Post-Audit Support
We provide mock audit preparation, on-site or remote audit assistance, and post-audit mitigation strategy development. Keentel ensures year-round audit readiness through proactive technical and regulatory guidance.
Integrated Substation Design for NERC Alignment
Our substation and interconnection engineering services incorporate NERC compliance from the ground up—supporting protection studies, grounding design, relay logic, and PRC/FAC standard requirements.
Engineering-Driven Compliance for the Power Gri
Unlike generic compliance consultants, Keentel integrates power system engineering with regulatory strategy. Our team ensures every NERC requirement is backed by validated system models, accurate data, and strong documentation.
We are well-experienced in clients across industries, assisting:
- Renewable Owners and Operators (GO, GOP Functions)
- Transmission operators and owners (TO and TOP Functions)
- Balancing authorities
- Load-serving entities
- Generation owners and operators (Conventional GO / GOP Assets)
Our NERC Compliance Services Can Benefit Your Business in Several Ways
Whether you’re preparing for an audit or strengthening long-term system reliability, our NERC compliance services offer measurable value. From grid protection to documentation support, Keentel Engineering helps you stay aligned with regulatory expectations—accurately, efficiently, and audit-ready.
Real-Time Alignment with Regulatory Requirements
Keentel delivers NERC compliance services that ensure your operations stay aligned with evolving O&P and CIP standards. Through accurate assessments and continuous engineering support, we help you maintain audit-ready status year-round.
Improved Grid Reliability Through Protection & Planning
Our team reviews protection coordination, planning studies, and inter-utility communications to enhance grid performance. This proactive approach reduces the risk of noncompliance and strengthens overall system reliability. See Our Service: Power system studies.
Enhanced Worker Safety Through Engineering Precision
Compliance with NERC standards isn’t just about documentation—it’s about safety. By implementing verified engineering practices and protection schemes, we help reduce operational hazards for your workforce.
Optimized Infrastructure Performance
We continuously test and refine your systems to boost infrastructure efficiency. Our engineers focus on improving protection schemes and addressing vulnerabilities that could impact compliance or uptime.
Comprehensive Support for NERC & Regional Reliability Standards
At Keentel Engineering, we provide full-scope NERC compliance services—from mock audits and RSAW preparation to detailed assessments of your existing program. Our team has decades of combined experience, including former NERC auditors and SMEs.
Audit-Ready Evidence & Continuous Improvement
We don't stop at identifying compliance gaps—we implement corrective actions, prepare auditable evidence, and ensure you're fully aligned with both NERC 693 and regional reliability requirements. Every engagement is tailored to your operational goals.
Integrated Approach: O&P + CIP Compliance Under One Roof
Our integrated NERC compliance program unites CIP standards, critical infrastructure protection, and O&P 693 RSAW processes. This end-to-end approach simplifies management, ensures accuracy, and streamlines regulatory coordination.
Tailored Compliance Solutions Across the Power Sector
Whether you're a generator owner, transmission operator, or balancing authority, our engineering consultants deliver NERC audit support, RSAW documentation, and ongoing compliance consulting designed for your system and region. See our Service: POI interconnection engineering support.
Ensure NERC Compliance with Expert Engineering & Audit Support
At Keentel Engineering, we deliver full-spectrum NERC compliance services to help Generator Owners (GOs), Transmission Operators (TOPs), and Balancing Authorities (BAs) align with the latest NERC 693 O&P and CIP Reliability Standards. Whether you’re preparing for your first audit or need validation for FAC-008-3 facility ratings, our engineering-driven approach ensures your systems are technically accurate and audit-ready.
We support compliance efforts through RSAR preparation, PRC-019 protection coordination studies, model validation, and end-to-end guidance with the NERC Align system. Our field-proven team goes beyond advisory—we provide direct, on-the-ground NERC compliance testing services, root-cause gap analyses, and real-time audit support for both O&P and CIP programs.
Trusted NERC Compliance Consulting for Grid Reliability
With over 27 years of power systems engineering leadership, Keentel Engineering is trusted nationwide for NERC compliance consulting and engineering compliance services. Our consultants include licensed P.E.s, former NERC audit team leads, and utility veterans with hands-on experience supporting NERC audit readiness and mitigation planning.
We assist clients in building robust, audit-defensible compliance frameworks through RSAW documentation, TPL-007-1 assessments, engineering model reviews, and coordination with regional reliability entities. Whether you're overseeing a renewable portfolio, critical substation, or conventional generation fleet, our support ensures full NERC O&P 693 compliance with tailored technical depth.
Engineering-Focused NERC Audit Support & Ongoing Consultation
Keentel provides audit-ready NERC services built for evolving compliance needs. We specialize in helping asset owners and operators with ongoing NERC compliance consultation, IBR audit support, and regulatory updates across both cyber and operational domains. Our consultants bring together NERC compliance engineering knowledge and utility-scale technical experience.
Our services include nerc rsaw documentation, coordination studies, compliance testing, and development of risk-informed internal controls. From pre-audit planning to long-term strategic support, our NERC compliance engineers and audit consultants deliver value that extends beyond checklists—offering reliable, defensible solutions trusted by utility partners across North America.
From initial compliance assessments to long-term engineering support, Keentel delivers NERC compliance solutions built for today’s grid and tomorrow’s audits.
Need help with NERC audits, RSAW documentation, or compliance assessments?
Call 813-389-7871 to speak with a certified NERC compliance consultant, or contact us online to ensure you’re fully aligned with NERC 693 O&P standards.
FAQ for Utility-Scale Solar Farm Engineering Services
NERC O&P Compliance - Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is NERC, and what do the NERC Operation and Planning (O&P) compliance standards cover?
The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) is a nonprofit organization responsible for establishing and enforcing reliability standards for the electric grid in North America. The Operation and Planning (O&P) compliance standards are a set of rules and requirements designed to ensure that the power grid operates reliably and efficiently. These standards cover areas such as:
- System operations and contingency planning
- Grid planning and design
- Transmission system reliability
- Monitoring, analysis, and reporting
These standards are critical for minimizing disruptions, enhancing grid reliability, and ensuring safety and stability in power system operations.
2. Why is NERC O&P compliance important for electric utilities?
Compliance with NERC O&P standards is essential because it helps:
- Ensure grid reliability and prevent system failures
- Meet regulatory requirements and avoid penalties
- Enhance operational efficiency and resilience
3. What are the key NERC Operation and Planning (O&P) standards?
Some of the key standards include:
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| COM-001-3 | Communications |
| COM-002-4 | Operating Personnel Communications Protocols |
| EOP-004-4 | Event Reporting |
These standards are part of NERC’s ongoing efforts to enhance the reliability, security, and safety of North America’s power grid.
4. What NERC O&P compliance engineering services do you offer?
- Compliance audits and gap analysis
- System modeling and analysis
- Emergency operations planning
- Transmission planning and reliability assessments
- Training and education
- Documentation and reporting
5. How do you help with NERC compliance audits?
- Internal audits and gap analysis
- Development of action plans
- Assistance with documentation
- Support throughout the audit process
6. How do you ensure that your engineering services meet NERC O&P compliance requirements?
- Staying up-to-date with standards
- Advanced modeling tools
- Thorough system assessments
- Close collaboration with clients
- Scalable, future-ready solutions
7. How can you help with system planning to meet NERC O&P compliance?
- Long-term transmission planning
- Contingency planning
- Load flow and stability studies
- Compliance-aligned infrastructure planning
8. What is involved in developing an emergency operations plan (EOP) for NERC compliance?
- Risk assessment
- Response procedures
- Coordination with stakeholders
- Communication protocols
- Testing and training
9. How can you assist with implementing corrective actions after a NERC compliance audit?
- Corrective action plans (CAPs)
- System changes and implementation
- Reporting and documentation
- Ongoing monitoring
10. How do you ensure that your NERC O&P compliance services are cost-effective?
- Efficiency audits
- Scalable services
- Optimization through modeling
- Prioritized compliance actions
11. How do you stay up-to-date with NERC O&P standards and regulations?
- Participation in NERC events
- Monitoring publications and updates
- Industry networking
- Continuous training and development
NERC Compliance FAQs
NERC Compliance FAQs
The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) is a nonprofit organization responsible for establishing and enforcing reliability standards for the electric grid in North America. The Operation and Planning (O&P) compliance standards are a set of rules and requirements designed to ensure that the power grid operates reliably and efficiently. These standards cover areas such as:
- System operations and contingency planning: To ensure reliable operation during normal and emergency conditions.
- Grid planning and design: To ensure the grid can meet future demand and accommodate changes in generation and load.
- Transmission system reliability: Including maintenance and upgrades to ensure continuous, reliable electricity transmission.
- Monitoring, analysis, and reporting: To maintain visibility and management of the grid's operational status.
These standards are critical for minimizing disruptions, enhancing grid reliability, and ensuring safety and stability in power system operations.
Compliance with NERC O&P standards is essential for electric utilities because it helps:
- Ensure Grid Reliability: The standards are designed to ensure that power systems can reliably supply electricity, even during unforeseen conditions or emergencies.
- Prevent System Failures: Proper compliance and planning minimize the risk of cascading failures or widespread outages.
- Meet Regulatory Requirements: Non-compliance can result in penalties, fines, and increased regulatory scrutiny. Compliance demonstrates that the utility is taking appropriate measures to maintain grid integrity and safety.
- Enhance Operational Efficiency: Following these standards leads to more effective operational practices, better forecasting, and a more resilient grid.
Some of the key NERC O&P standards include:
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| COM-001-3 | Communications |
| COM-002-4 | Operating Personnel Communications Protocols |
| EOP-004-4 | Event Reporting |
| EOP-005-3 | System Restoration from Blackstart Resources |
| EOP-006-3 | System Restoration Coordination |
| EOP-008-2 | Loss of Control Center Functionality |
| EOP-010-1 | Geomagnetic Disturbance Operations |
| EOP-011-4 | Emergency Operations |
| EOP-012-2 | Extreme Cold Weather Preparedness and Operations |
| FAC-001-4 | Facility Interconnection Requirements |
| FAC-002-4 | Facility Interconnection Studies |
| FAC-003-5 | Transmission Vegetation Management |
| FAC-008-5 | Facility Ratings |
| FAC-011-4 | System Operating Limits Methodology for the Operations Horizon |
| FAC-014-3 | Establish and Communicate System Operating Limits |
| FAC-501-WECC-4 | Transmission Maintenance |
| INT-006-5 | Evaluation of Interchange Transactions |
| INT-009-3 | Implementation of Interchange |
| IRO-001-4 | Reliability Coordination – Responsibilities |
| IRO-002-7 | Reliability Coordination – Monitoring and Analysis |
| IRO-006-5 | Reliability Coordination — Transmission Loading Relief (TLR) |
| IRO-006-EAST-2 | Transmission Loading Relief Procedure for the Eastern Interconnection |
| IRO-006-WECC-3 | Qualified Path Unscheduled Flow (USF) Relief |
| IRO-008-3 | Reliability Coordinator Operational Analyses and Real-time Assessments |
| IRO-009-2 | Reliability Coordinator Actions to Operate Within IROLs |
| IRO-010-4 | Reliability Coordinator Data Specification and Collection |
| IRO-014-3 | Coordination Among Reliability Coordinators |
| IRO-017-1 | Outage Coordination |
| IRO-018-1(i) | Reliability Coordinator Real-time Reliability Monitoring and Analysis Capabilities |
| MOD-025-2 | Verification and Data Reporting of Generator Real and Reactive Power Capability and Synchronous Condenser Reactive Power Capability |
| MOD-026-1 | Verification of Models and Data for Generator Excitation Control System or Plant Volt/Var Control Functions |
| MOD-027-1 | Verification of Models and Data for Turbine/Governor and Load Control or Active Power/Frequency Control Functions |
| MOD-031-3 | Demand and Energy Data |
| MOD-032-1 | Data for Power System Modeling and Analysis |
| MOD-033-2 | Steady-State and Dynamic System Model Validation |
| NUC-001-4 | Nuclear Plant Interface Coordination |
| PER-003-2 | Operating Personnel Credentials |
| PER-005-2 | Operations Personnel Training |
| PER-006-1 | Specific Training for Personnel |
These standards are part of NERC's ongoing efforts to enhance the reliability, security, and safety of North America's power grid.
We provide comprehensive NERC O&P compliance engineering services to help utilities meet all relevant reliability standards. Our services include:
- Compliance Audits and Gap Analysis: Evaluating your current systems and practices against NERC's O&P standards to identify areas of non-compliance and recommend corrective actions.
- System Modeling & Analysis: Performing detailed simulations and studies to assess the operational impact of system changes, upgrades, and emergency response strategies.
- Emergency Operations Planning: Developing and implementing emergency response plans to ensure that your operations can effectively respond to grid disturbances or failures.
- Transmission Planning & Reliability Assessments: Conducting studies to ensure that your transmission system can handle future demand, integrate new generation, and comply with NERC standards.
- Training & Education: Providing tailored training sessions to educate your team about NERC standards, compliance best practices, and operational procedures.
- Documentation & Reporting: Assisting with the preparation and submission of compliance reports and documentation required for NERC audits.
We assist in preparing for and managing NERC compliance audits by:
- Conducting internal audits and gap analysis to ensure all relevant operations and planning functions meet NERC standards.
- Identifying compliance gaps and assisting with the development of action plans to rectify issues before the official NERC audit.
- Helping compile all necessary documentation and reports to present to NERC auditors, ensuring that all compliance activities are properly documented.
- Supporting your team throughout the audit process, including clarifying compliance requirements, responding to audit requests, and providing explanations for compliance practices.
Our goal is to ensure that your organization is fully prepared for NERC audits and can achieve a successful outcome.
We ensure that our engineering services meet NERC O&P compliance requirements by:
- Staying up-to-date on the latest NERC standards and regulatory changes to ensure our work reflects current requirements.
- Leveraging advanced modeling and simulation tools to analyze grid operations and plan for contingencies in accordance with NERC guidelines.
- Conducting thorough system assessments to ensure that your systems are properly designed, maintained, and operated to meet NERC reliability requirements.
- Collaborating closely with your team to ensure that all engineering activities align with best practices for compliance and grid reliability.
- Ensuring that our solutions are scalable and can support the evolving needs of your system and the changing regulatory environment.
Our team assists with system planning by:
- Conducting long-term transmission planning to ensure the infrastructure can handle future demand, integrate renewable generation, and meet NERC reliability standards.
- Providing contingency planning for potential grid disturbances and outages, ensuring that your system can remain operational during emergency scenarios.
- Performing load flow analysis, stability studies, and contingency assessments to identify potential risks and vulnerabilities in your system.
- Ensuring that all plans for upgrades or new infrastructure projects align with NERC O&P standards and contribute to the overall stability and reliability of the grid.
Developing an emergency operations plan (EOP) involves several key steps:
- Risk Assessment: Identifying potential risks and scenarios that could impact the grid, such as extreme weather events, equipment failures, or cyberattacks.
- Response Procedures: Developing detailed procedures for managing grid disturbances, including actions for restoring power, maintaining system frequency, and managing resources.
- Coordination: Ensuring coordination with other utilities, grid operators, and emergency response teams to manage large-scale disruptions.
- Communication Protocols: Establishing clear communication channels to ensure that relevant personnel are informed during emergencies.
- Testing and Training: Regularly testing the plan through simulated drills and training personnel to ensure they are prepared for real-world emergencies.
We help design and implement comprehensive EOPs that meet NERC standards and ensure effective response during emergency situations.
If a NERC audit reveals compliance gaps, we can assist with:
- Developing Corrective Action Plans (CAPs): Identifying areas of non-compliance and creating detailed action plans to rectify issues.
- Implementing Solutions: Providing engineering expertise to help implement necessary system changes, whether through infrastructure upgrades, operational adjustments, or process improvements.
- Documentation & Reporting: Assisting in the preparation of follow-up reports to demonstrate to NERC that corrective actions have been completed and that compliance has been achieved.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Setting up systems to continually monitor compliance with NERC O&P standards, ensuring that future audits will be successful.
We aim to provide cost-effective solutions by:
- Conducting efficiency audits to identify areas where cost savings can be achieved without compromising reliability or compliance.
- Offering scalable services that align with your specific needs and budget, whether it's a full compliance assessment or targeted improvements.
- Utilizing advanced modeling and tools to optimize system designs and operational practices, reducing the need for costly system upgrades or emergency interventions.
- Helping prioritize compliance actions that deliver the greatest impact on grid reliability and regulatory compliance, minimizing unnecessary expenditures.
Our team stays informed about changes to NERC O&P standards and regulations by:
- Regularly participating in NERC webinars, conferences, and industry events.
- Monitoring NERC publications and updates related to compliance and reliability standards.
- Maintaining relationships with industry professionals and regulatory bodies to ensure we're aware of evolving requirements and best practices.
- Continuously investing in professional development and training for our engineers to ensure they are equipped with the latest knowledge on NERC compliance.
Reliability Standard Audit Worksheets (RSAWs) are essential documents used during NERC compliance audits to demonstrate how an entity meets specific reliability standards. Keentel supports RSAW preparation by:
- Providing detailed engineering analysis, system studies, and technical documentation.
- Ensuring alignment with standards such as PRC-019, FAC-008-3, and TPL-001.
- Conducting internal pre-audit reviews to ensure accuracy and audit-readiness.
- Guiding clients through the NERC Align platform for smooth RSAW submission.
Yes. Keentel provides hands-on engineering and compliance support during NERC audits. Our team helps clients:
- Respond in real-time to technical audit questions related to system models and standards compliance.
- Explain the engineering basis for RSAW evidence and test results.
- Collaborate with internal compliance teams to ensure audit success.
- Clarify complex NERC standards including PRC, FAC, MOD, and CIP requirements.
NERC compliance services involve engineering, documentation, and regulatory support to help GOs, GOPs, and TOPs meet the mandatory standards set by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), including PRC, TPL, MOD, and CIP requirements.
A NERC compliance consultant helps utilities and asset owners prepare for audits, manage RSAWs, perform engineering studies, ensure PRC compliance testing, and maintain accurate documentation in accordance with NERC standards.
Keentel provides end-to-end NERC audit support services including engineering analysis, disturbance reporting, compliance gap assessments, RSAW evidence development, and live support during CIP and O&P audits—onsite or remotely.
Blog and Updates
