ERCOT Reinforces Ride-Through Maximization Requirements – Key Deadlines Approaching

Amid increasing renewable energy integration and grid reliability challenges, ERCOT recently reiterated the importance of maximizing Frequency Ride-Through (FRT) and Voltage Ride-Through (VRT) capabilities for all Resources. This initiative ensures grid stability, even during widespread frequency or voltage disturbances. Following the approval of NOGRR245 on September 26, 2024, and its effectiveness starting October 1, 2024, ERCOT has emphasized full compliance with these updated requirements.

This article outlines the immediate actions required, approaching deadlines, and comprehensive compliance guidelines necessary for successful FRT and VRT implementation.

Why Ride-Through Maximization Matters

The updated requirements focus on ensuring that all Inverter-Based Resources (IBRs) and Type 1 and Type 2 Wind Generation Resources (WGRs) respond effectively during grid disturbances. Meeting these standards reduces the likelihood of event-driven cascading failures and strengthens long-term energy reliability in Texas’s evolving energy landscape.

ERCOT has stressed that simply meeting minimum ride-through thresholds is insufficient. Instead, resources must maximize their capabilities for greater grid resilience. Below, we’ll provide a breakdown of the new compliance framework and what you need to do to ensure alignment with it.

Frequency Ride-Through (FRT) Requirements

Who Is Impacted?

• All IBRs.
• Type 1 and Type 2 WGRs.

Compliance Deadline

• By synchronization date or December 31, 2025, whichever comes later.

Action Required

• Maximize FRT capabilities to meet or exceed ERCOT’s Nodal Operating Guide (NOG) §2.6.2.1(1)–(5).
• Resources unable to meet these standards and have a signed SGIA before August 1, 2024, must comply with the following steps:
• Initial Frequency Ride-Through Capability Report (IFRTCR): Submit an IFRTCR by April 1, 2025.
• Request an Extension: Request an extension and meet FRT requirements as of May 1, 2024, until maximization is achieved
• Request Exemption: If resources are still non-compliant, file for an exemption by April 1, 2025.

Voltage Ride-Through (VRT) Requirements

Who Is Impacted?

• All IBRs.
• Type 1 and Type 2 WGRs.

Compliance Deadline

• By Commercial Operation Date (COD) or December 31, 2025, whichever comes later.

Action Required

• Maximize VRT capabilities to meet or exceed IEEE 2800–2022 Sections 5, 7, and 9, as well as ERCOT NOG §2.9.1.1(1)–(7) (Preferred Curve).
• Resources unable to meet these standards and have a signed SGIA before August 1, 2024, must comply with the following steps:
• Comply with legacy curve requirements under ERCOT NOG §2.9.1.2(1)–(8).
• If the legacy curve cannot be met:
• Submit an Initial Voltage Ride-Through Capability Report (IVRTCR) by April 1, 2025.
• Request an extension and comply with VRT requirements as of May 1, 2024, until maximization is achieved.
• If still non-compliant, request an exemption by April 1, 2025.

• Resources unable to meet IEEE 2800-2022 and have a signed SGIA after August 1, 2024, must request an extension by April 1, 2025, and meet the Preferred Curve.

Submission Process & Key Deadlines

ERCOT is streamlining the ride-through, extension, and exemption submission process through DocuSign and RIOO:

For Resources in ERCOT’s Network Operations Model or With an Approved Production Load Date (PLD):

• February 19, 2025: ERCOT sent a DocuSign request to the Authorized Representative.
• April 1, 2025: Deadline for submission, even if requesting no exemptions or exceptions.

For Resources in Queue Without an Approved PLD Requesting Exemptions or Extensions:

• Submit a RIOO change request by April 1, 2025.
• February 28, 2025: RIOO-IS will introduce a new file type, “NOGRR245 Ride-Through Requirements,” for uploading compliance documents.

RIOO Updates in Q3 2025:

• ERCOT’s RIOO application will support:
• Ride-through data entry for interconnection queue resources.
• Reporting completed maximization efforts.

Staying Ahead of Compliance

Why Act Now?

The updated ride-through requirements are complex, and the consequences for non-compliance could be severe. Taking proactive measures today will position your resources for seamless alignment with ERCOT’s evolving regulations, reducing financial and operational risks.

How We Can Help

Navigating ERCOT’s compliance landscape can be challenging, especially when balancing technical requirements and approaching deadlines. Our team of industry experts at EPE specializes in regulatory compliance and grid integration. Whether you need assistance with completing your ride-through capability reports, requesting exemptions, or optimizing your resources to meet IEEE and ERCOT guidelines, we’re here to help.

Contact us today to ensure your projects are fully compliant and stay on schedule.

Final Thoughts on Maximizing Ride-Through Requirements

The enhanced ride-through requirements for both frequency and voltage are a significant step toward reinforcing Texas’s electrical grid reliability. By aligning with these standards early, energy stakeholders can not only ensure compliance but also contribute to a more resilient grid system.

Take the time now to evaluate your resources’ capabilities, address any gaps, and file necessary reports or exemption requests before the critical April 1, 2025, deadline. Partner with trusted experts to simplify the process, maintain compliance, and focus on advancing your project goals.

Need support? Reach out to our EPE team today for personalized advice and solutions tailored to your resource needs.