IBR Registration Reminder: May 2026 Is Approaching

NERC’s Inverter-Based Resource (IBR) Registration Initiative isn’t new — but the timeline is getting real. 

While there have been no major recent rule changes, the industry has shifted from discussion to implementation. Regional Entities are actively identifying potential Category 2 Generator Owners (GO) and Generator Operators (GOP), and organizations are expected to be ready ahead of the May 15, 2026, milestone. 

For many solar, wind, battery storage, and hybrid facilities, this may mean entering the NERC compliance framework for the first time. 

Who Should Pay Attention? 

Your organization may be impacted if your inverter-based resources: 

• Total 20 MVA or greater (aggregate), and 
• Are connected to systems designed to deliver power at 60 kV or above 

Even facilities historically considered “non-BES” may now fall under Category 2 registration. 

What This Means 

Registration is more than an administrative step. It can introduce responsibilities such as: 

• Protection and control performance requirements 
• Modeling and data submissions 
• Facility and interconnection documentation 
• Ongoing compliance program management and audit readiness 

For teams without an existing NERC structure, building these programs can take time. 

Why Act Now? 

• The criteria are established. 
• The systems are live. 
• Regional Entities are engaging entities. 

May 2026 is a readiness deadline. Waiting for a formal notice can compress already tight timelines. 

How EPE is Supporting Clients

EPE is currently helping IBR owners and operators: 

• Determine if their assets meet Category 2 thresholds 
• Prepare registration documentation 
• Identify GO/GOP roles and responsibilities 
• Build scalable compliance programs aligned with applicable standards 

Early preparation reduces risk, avoids last-minute scrambles, and creates a smoother path into NERC compliance. If your organization owns or operates inverter-based resources and has not yet assessed its status, now is the right time to start the conversation. Reach out to our team using the form below.