What is one consequence of not achieving the minimum BAAL compliance score?

Achieving the minimum Balance Area Agreed Limit (BAAL) compliance score is crucial for maintaining system reliability and operational integrity within the grid. When a balancing authority does not meet this minimum score, it is subject to regulatory scrutiny since non-compliance can expose the operator to significant risks that may affect system stability. Regulatory penalties are designed to enforce compliance with reliability standards, ensuring that all balancing authorities operate within the established limits to prevent adverse impacts on the electric grid.

The regulatory bodies have set these standards for a reason: to promote reliability, efficiency, and the overall functioning of interconnected systems. Failing to achieve the required BAAL compliance score signals a potential inability to manage load and generation effectively, which can lead to broader systemic issues. This practical enforcement mechanism signals to all balancing authorities the importance of adhering to established reliability benchmarks to mitigate risks associated with power system operations.