When a BA is unable to calculate ACE, what is the reporting time to notify the RC if it exceeds 30 minutes?

When a balancing authority (BA) is unable to calculate the Area Control Error (ACE), it is crucial to notify the Reliability Coordinator (RC) promptly to ensure that proper measures can be taken to maintain reliability. The NERC standards specify that if a BA cannot calculate ACE for more than 30 minutes, the BA must report this situation to the RC within 15 minutes.

This timeframe is established to facilitate timely communication about potential reliability risks. The 15-minute reporting requirement is critical because it allows the RC to understand the operational status of the BA and make informed decisions regarding reliability management. Quick notification enables the RC to assess the overall system state and coordinate actions that may be necessary to mitigate any risks that arise from the BA's inability to calculate ACE.

Overall, prompt reporting within 15 minutes helps ensure that all parties involved in the reliability of the bulk electric system remain informed and can collaboratively address any issues that may arise from such technical difficulties.