How often should Balancing Authorities check and calibrate time error and frequency devices against a common reference?

Balancing Authorities are responsible for maintaining the reliability of the electric grid, which includes ensuring that the frequency of the grid remains stable. Accurate frequency and time error measurements are critical in achieving this stability.

It is required that Balancing Authorities check and calibrate their time error and frequency devices at least annually against a common reference to ensure precision in their measurements. This regular calibration helps identify any discrepancies that may arise due to drift in the devices or other issues that could affect frequency control and time synchronization.

By adhering to an annual schedule for calibration, Balancing Authorities can address potential errors proactively, thereby supporting the overall reliability of the grid. Moreover, this frequency aligns with best practices in monitoring and maintaining grid integrity, as precision in time and frequency is crucial for coordination across different entities in the electric system.