System restoration plans/procedures for simulation should be tested and verified how often?

Testing and verifying system restoration plans and procedures is essential for ensuring that a utility can effectively and safely restore operations following a disturbance or outage. The frequency of these tests is governed by reliability standards and best practices within the electrical power industry.

Choosing to test and verify these plans at least every 3 years aligns with the guidelines established by relevant reliability standards. This time frame strikes a balance between ensuring the plans remain relevant in the face of changing technology, operational practices, and personnel while not being so frequent that it becomes burdensome.

Regular testing ensures that all personnel are familiar with the procedures and that any updates or changes in infrastructure, equipment, or protocols are integrated into the restoration plans. This helps organizations maintain a high level of preparedness, enhances safety during actual restorations, and minimizes the risk of prolonged outages.

In addition, the three-year interval allows for adequate time to assess the effectiveness of restoration efforts, identify any areas for improvement, and implement those improvements before the next test cycle. This systematic approach supports continuous improvement in system reliability and operational resilience.