Supporting Reliability: EPE Launches GADS Reporting Services for Solar and Other Generation

EPE now provides support for Generating Availability Data System (GADS) submissions, as required by NERC. 

GADS serves as a comprehensive database for collecting and tracking generation availability and maintaining performance data for thousands of units. The information provided to NERC through this database is critical for performance analysis and system planning, among other reliability determinations. GADS captures performance statistics and detailed event records, including outages, derates, and their causes. If a solar facility experiences downtime due to flooding, the event and its contributing conditions are documented and incorporated into availability results. 

While GADS is part of the Section 1600 data requirements, it is not a new initiative. In fact, reporting has been mandatory for conventional generation since 2012, expanded to include wind generation in 2018, and recently to solar generation in 2024. Before these dates, many generating facilities were requested to supply data voluntarily, but for NERC registered entities, reporting is now mandatory. 

Generation availability data must be submitted quarterly, with NERC establishing specific deadlines for compliance. Entities required to report must also obtain digital certificates to access the submission portal. 

While there are multiple tools available that can be used to collect this data, these automated tools can be used to enhance accuracy and reduce the likelihood of errors. 

The data submitted through GADS is utilized for reliability assessments, system planning, and outage analysis, enabling NERC to monitor and address grid reliability issues effectively. 

As part of our GADS support services, EPE assists with the registration process and, if preferred, can handle the data submission on behalf of our clients. This offering reflects EPE’s commitment to delivering compliance assistance that goes beyond the formal NERC Standards, helping our clients meet their obligations with confidence and precision.

To learn more about how we can help you through this process, contact our team using the form below.