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General Requirements

for Interconnection

W E S T E R N A R E A P O W E R A D M I N I S T R A T I O N

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SALT LAKE CITY

PHOENIX

LOVELAND

GOLDEN

BILLINGS

GreatSaltLake

FOLSOM

SIERRA NEVADAREGION

CRSP MANAGEMENT

CENTER

UPPER GREAT PLAINSREGION

ROCKY MOUNTAINREGION

REGIONAL OFFICE

REGIONAL BOUNDARIES

CORPORATE SERVICES OFFICE

MANAGEMENT CENTER

STATE BOUNDARIES

DESERT SOUTHWEST

REGION

DSW manages transmissionfacilities in Arizona, California andNevada, including the PacificNorthwest-Pacific SouthwestIntertie, and markets powerfrom the Boulder Canyon, Parker-Davis and Central Arizona proj-ects. DSW manages a controlarea operations center at itsoffice located in Phoenix,Arizona.

The CRSP Management Center mar-kets power from the Colorado RiverStorage, Collbran, and Rio Grande proj-ects (marketed together as Salt LakeCity Area Integrated Projects) on itstransmission facilities in Arizona, NewMexico, Colorado, Utah and Texas.

SNR manages transmission facilities in California for the purpose of marketing power from theCentral Valley Project and WashoeProject. SNR also maintains owner-ship rights to capacity in the PacificAC Intertie and the California-Oregon Transmission Project, and islocated in the California IndependentSystem Operator control area.

UGPR manages transmission facilities in Montana,North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Minnesota,and Iowa and markets power from the Pick-SloanMissouri Basin Program-Eastern Division. UGPRtransmission facilities are integrated with the trans-mission facilities of Basin Electric Power Cooperativeand Heartland Consumers Power District. UGPRmanages a control area operations center inWatertown, South Dakota.

RMR manages trans-mission facilities inColorado,Wyoming,Nebraska and Kansas forthe purpose of marketingpower from the Pick-Sloan Missouri BasinProgram-WesternDivision and theFryingpan-ArkansasProject (marketedtogether as LovelandArea Projects). RMRmanages a control areaoperations centerthrough its office locatedin Loveland, Colorado.

The Desert Southwest Region, Rocky Mountain Region, Sierra Nevada Region, Colorado River Storage Project ManagementCenter, and western portion of Upper Great Plains Region operate within the Western Systems Coordinating Council(WSCC). The eastern portion of the UGPR operates within the Mid-Continent Area Power Pool (MAPP).

Western’s Customer Service Areas GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCONNECTION

Administrator’s Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii

Western’s Transmission Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Interconnection Process Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Interconnection Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Funding Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Reliability Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Safety and Security Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Environmental Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Land Acquisition Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Technical Requirements

System Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

• Power Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

• Generation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

• Load . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

• Substations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

• Transmission Line Taps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

• System Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Operations and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

• System Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

• Ownership and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Communications and Metering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

• Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

• Metering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Contractual Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Western Points of Contact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Application for Interconnection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

i

Contents

G E N E R A L R E Q U I R E M E N T S F O R I N T E R C O N N E C T I O N

ii

Greetings,

Western Area Power Administration (Western) welcomes your interestin our requirements for interconnecting with Western’s transmissionfacilities, and looks forward to working with you to facilitate intercon-nection under the process discussed within this booklet.

These general requirements are offered as guidelines to assist in inter-connecting to Western’s facilities. Western reserves the right to modifythese requirements at any time to meet changing conditions.

Michael S. HacskayloAdministrator

September 20, 1999

Administrator’s Introduction


Western was established onDecember 21, 1977, pursuant toSection 302 of the Department ofEnergy Organization Act of 1977

(Public Law 95-91). Our mission is to marketand deliver reliable, cost-based hydroelectricpower and related services. Western main-tains efficient, cost-effective, and reliablepower system facilities for the delivery of long-term firm power to its electric service cus-tomers.

We operate and maintain more than 16,800circuit miles (27,000 kilometers) of transmis-sion lines, 258 substations, and other electricpower facilities in a geographic area encom-passing 1.3 million square miles (3.38 millionsquare kilometers) in 15 central and westernstates. Western sells firm wholesale power tomore than 638 customers including rural elec-tric cooperatives, municipalities, public utilitydistricts, Federal and state agencies, irrigation

districts, and private utilities. These powercustomers, in turn, provide electric service tomillions of retail consumers. In addition to theCorporate Services Office in Golden, Colo.,Western operates and maintains transmissionfacilities and markets power from its fourregional offices in Billings, Mont.; Phoenix,Ariz.; Loveland, Colo.; and Folsom, Calif.; andthe Colorado River Storage Project CustomerService Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Electric power marketed by Western is gener-ated by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, U.S.Army Corps of Engineers, and InternationalBoundary and Water Commission, which oper-ate 55 hydropower generating plants in ourservice area. Additionally, we market theUnited States’ entitlement from the Navajocoal-fired plant near Page, Arizona. The gen-erating capacity of the plants from whichWestern markets power is more than 10,600megawatts.

1

Western’s Transmission Facilities


2

General Requirements for Interconnectionis intended to be a guide for theprompt processing of interconnectionrequests. This document describes

Western’s general requirements and theprocess for interconnection, addition or modifi-cation to Western’s transmission facilities. Itprovides an overview of funding, reliability,safety and security, environmental, land acqui-sition, technical and contractual requirements,as well as lists Western points of contact andreferences.

This document sets forth the minimumrequirements for interconnection withWestern’s transmission facilities. There maybe additional requirements by Westerndepending upon the location and scope of the

proposed interconnection. The steps outlinedin the interconnection process may be furtherstreamlined when Western deems appropriate.

Interconnection is a separate but parallelprocess to other processes, including the trans-mission service request process set forth inWestern’s Open Access Transmission ServiceTariff (Tariff) (63 FR 521), the environmentalreview process outlined in the U.S. Depart-ment of Energy’s National EnvironmentalPolicy Act (NEPA) Implementing Procedures,and Western’s land acquisition process. Theseprocesses may share steps in order to ensurean efficient interconnection. It is Western’sintent to make the separate processes as seam-less as possible.

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Each request for interconnection is evaluat-ed on a case-by-case basis and is subjectto meeting reasonable needs of therequesting entity. The requesting entity

may be an electric utility, a firm-power cus-tomer, a private power developer, or an inde-pendent power generator.

Western assumes responsibilities to operateand maintain its interconnected facilities.

Direct interconnection to Western’s facilitiesdoes not involve nor guarantee transmissioncapacity on Western’s system. Transmissionservice requests must be made in accordancewith Western’s Open Access TransmissionService Tariff. The Tariff is available onWestern’s website at www.wapa.gov, or may befurnished to the entity requesting interconnec-tion. It is also posted on regional Open AccessSame-Time Information Systems (OASIS).Transmission service request review is a sepa-rate process from interconnection requestreview, though for efficiencies some steps areshared. Additional parallel processes includeenvironmental review and land acquisition,which are discussed in more detail in this doc-ument.

There are seven general steps in the intercon-nection process. Within legal and technicalparameters, the steps in this process may bemodified by Western on a case-by-case basisdepending upon the specific circumstances ofthe requested interconnection.

Step 1: Contact Western and submitapplication

Requesting entities are encouraged to dis-cuss proposed projects with a representa-tive at the Western office in which theinterconnection will occur (see Western

Points of Contact, page 29). Discussion,and subsequent review of the request byWestern, will help Western determinewhat studies are necessary.

Generally, the requesting entity should beregistered with the appropriate reliabilitycouncil before requesting interconnectionwith Western. After initial contact,Western will provide—or make availablethrough Western’s website atwww.wapa.gov— interconnection relatedinformation, including Western’s GeneralRequirements for Interconnection (thisbooklet), the Application forInterconnection (see Appendix), the Tariffif applicable, Western’s applicable GeneralPower Contract Provisions and other sup-porting safety, environmental and opera-tions information.

Formal requests for interconnection—using the application contained in theAppendix or through a similar writtenrequest—should be submitted at least 18months in advance of when the equip-ment or construction specifications are tobe issued for bid. Such lead time allowsWestern to develop a proposed plan anddesigns and specifications for Western-owned, -operated and -maintained facili-ties, as well as to review line taps ownedby others.

Western may take up to 30 days toprocess the interconnections request.

When submitting an interconnectionrequest to Western, the requesting entityshould provide as much of the followinginformation as possible to help expeditethe design or review process. This infor-mation is also listed in summary form on

Interconnection Process


5

Interconnection Process GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCONNECTION

the Application for Interconnection.

A. Single-line diagram(s) showing theproposed interconnection, includingany relaying and metering facilities.

B. Drawing(s) indicating the physicalarrangements of existing and pro-posed facilities.

C. Geographic location of the proposedinterconnection, including land own-ership pattern, if available. If a tap,indicate adjacent structure numbers.

D. Description of the proposed routing,approximate lengths and conductorsize of transmission line additions ormodifications, and dimensions andconfigurations of new structures.

E. Description and ratings of any pro-posed breakers, switches, metering,associated communications, relayingand other related equipment.

F. Description of transformer voltage andrating, winding connections, imped-ance if available, and proposedmethod of protection.

G. Proposed construction schedule.

H. Description of the generatingresources or loads to be served by theinterconnection and the proposedtransmission path(s) and servicearrangements between resources andassociated loads, where applicable.The description should include the fol-lowing:

(1) Power output or load require-ments, including 10-year projec-tions, by delivery points, of win-ter and summer peaks for loads

served or generation suppliedthrough the point of interconnec-tion;

(2) Size, type and ratings of largeequipment;

(3) Reliability and special operationrequirements; and

(4) Impedance, frequency, voltage,reactive power and protectiverelaying characteristics of theinterconnecting resource or load.

I. Appropriate revenue and telemeteringequipment specifications. The datashould include load control boundarymetering, current and potential trans-former ratios and register and contactinitiator ratios with multipliers.

J. Copies of relevant planning or opera-tional studies.

K. Copies of relevant environmentalimpact assessments, reports, or pro-jections; or description of anticipatedscope of environmental review.

The application for interconnection doesnot pertain to transmission service, whichuses a separate application. Concurrentrequests for transmission will share cer-tain steps where appropriate, but are con-ducted under separate Western authori-ties. For transmission application informa-tion, see the Tariff.

If Western denies the request for intercon-nection, a summary of reasons will be pro-vided, and Western will make every rea-sonable effort to support the requestingentity in revising the request, as applica-ble.

6

Step 2: System impact study

Western will conduct a system impactstudy. When the interconnection resultsfrom a transmission request, Western willuse the study process outlined inAttachment D to the Tariff. The study willassess the capability of the transmissionsystem to support the requested intercon-nection, including any special studies nec-essary to evaluate the need to offsetpotential Western control performanceproblems. The study will use the criteriaand process detailed in Sections 4 and 5of Western’s Federal Energy RegulatoryCommission Form 715 (available uponrequest) when the request occurs in theWSCC area, and use the MAPP systemimpact study methodology (availableupon request) when the request occurs inthe MAPP area.

Within 30 days of receiving the requestingentity’s application for interconnection,Western will provide a System ImpactStudy Agreement in which the requestingentity agrees to advance funds forWestern to perform the study. Therequesting entity must sign and return theagreement to Western within 15 days orthe request is deemed withdrawn.

Western will make every effort to com-plete the system impact study within 60days of agreement execution. The studywill identify system constraints and redis-patch options and any necessary addition-al direct assignment facilities and networkupgrades.

Once the system impact study is com-plete, a report will be developed and pro-vided to the requesting entity for review.

Within 30 days after receiving the resultsof the system impact study, an entityrequesting both interconnection and trans-

mission service may request in writing anExpedited Service Agreement. The Expe-dited Service Agreement provides for therequesting entity to compensate Westernin advance for all costs to be incurred byWestern following the system impactstudy. These costs may include identifica-tion of facility additions or upgrades,design, construction, environmentalreview, land acquisition, and energization.Rather than separate contractual agree-ments for facilities study, construction,transmission service, and interconnection,the Expedited Service Agreement providesfor one contractual agreement incorporat-ing the full interconnection process, fromfacilities study to operation and mainte-nance, including transmission service.

Western will provide the requesting entityits best estimate of new facility costs andother charges, but the estimate is notbinding and the requesting entity mustagree in writing to compensate Western inadvance for all costs incurred in the inter-connection and transmission serviceprocesses in order for this expeditedprocess to occur. For further information,refer to Section 19.8 of the Tariff, or con-tact the appropriate Western office.

Step 3: Facilities study and design

A facilities study is necessary to determineupgrades or modifications needed at thepoint of interconnection. Within 30 daysafter Western completes the systemimpact study, Western will provide aFacilities Study Agreement in which therequesting entity agrees to advance fundsfor Western to perform the study. Therequesting entity must sign and return theagreement to Western within 15 days orthe request is deemed withdrawn.

Western will make every effort to com-plete the facilities study within 60 days of

Interconnection ProcessGENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCONNECTION

7

agreement execution. The study willinclude estimates of the cost of facilitiesdesign and construction as well as thetime required to complete design and con-struction.

Once the facilities study is complete, areport will be developed and provided tothe requesting entity for review.

Step 4: Environmental review

As a Federal agency, Western conducts anenvironmental review of any action affect-ing Western’s transmission facilities. Theenvironmental review process can rangefrom a categorical exclusion to a compre-hensive environmental impact statement,including the required public process forsuch a statement. The environmentalreview process is conducted simultaneous-ly with other studies.

Requesting entities are required toadvance funds for Western to conduct theenvironmental review process. SeeFunding Requirements (page 9) for furtherinformation.

The environmental review process usesinput from the studies and constructionplanning processes. It may be concludedbefore or after completion of these techni-cal studies, when applicable.Continuation of the interconnectionprocess at any and every step is contin-gent upon favorable environmental review.

If the environmental review determinesthat the interconnection does not satisfyFederal environmental criteria, Westernwill either deny the request or work withthe requesting entity to revise aspects ofthe interconnection request to meet envi-ronmental criteria. Such revisions mayoccur at various steps during the process.

Step 5: Land acquisition

Upon completion of the environmentalprocess, negotiations for any necessaryland rights begin. Negotiations should becomplete and the land rights obtainedprior to the start of construction.Requesting entities are required toadvance funds for Western to conduct thenecessary land acquisition activities. SeeFunding Requirements (page 9) for furtherinformation.

Western will, unless otherwise agreed toby Western and the requesting entity, per-form all land acquisition activities.

Step 6: Design and construction

Once the facilities study is complete,Western will tender a ConstructionAgreement to the requesting entity. Therequesting entity has 30 days to sign andreturn the agreements to Western and pro-vide advance payment. Western cannotcontinue without funding in place.

Western will, unless otherwise agreed toby Western and the requesting entity,design the interconnection. See TechnicalRequirements, Design (page 20), for fur-ther information.

Western will also, unless otherwise agreedto by Western and the requesting entity,perform all construction. See TechnicalRequirements (page 16) for further infor-mation.

Step 7: Review and testing, interconnec-tion agreement, and energize

Once construction has been completed—and before energizing the new intercon-nection—Western will review and test thenew facilities. Western will use prudentutility practice in review and testing.

Interconnection Process GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCONNECTION

Before energizing, Western must alsoreceive the appropriate as-built drawings,operating instructions and other relevantmaterials. See Technical Requirements,Operations and Maintenance (page 23),for further information.

When the facilities are found to be in con-formance with Western’s Standard DesignCriteria, Power Systems Safety Manual andrelated requirements, Western will tenderan Interconnection Agreement to the inter-connecting entity. The InterconnectionAgreement—also termed mutual services,operations and maintenance, control area,or consolidated agreement in someregions—provides for the long-term opera-tion and maintenance of the interconnect-ed facilities. The InterconnectionAgreement generally includes sections onlicensing, maintenance, operations, spe-cial instructions, and funding, as applica-ble. When to the benefit of Western andthe interconnecting entity, the

Interconnection Agreement may be ten-dered at the same time as the earlierConstruction Agreement.

The interconnected facilities may be ener-gized following execution of theInterconnection Agreement. If Westerndoes not maintain direct control of thefacilities, then Western will maintainbackup control of all facilities deemed tobe vital to system stability. See TechnicalRequirements, Operations andMaintenance (page 23), for further infor-mation.

Step 8: Project close-out

Western will develop a final report with alist of lessons learned to help facilitatefuture interconnections. Western invitesthe interconnecting entity to join in devel-oping a joint final report that benefitsWestern and the entity.

8

Interconnection ProcessGENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCONNECTION

9

A ll Western costs associated with theinterconnection request are the respon-sibility of the requesting entity.Advance funds are required before

Western performs any studies, design, landacquisition or construction. The contractualagreements will specify the amount of fundsrequired to be advanced. Upon receipt byWestern, advance funds will be placed in acost account for the project. Periodic coststatements will be furnished as studies andwork progress.

Application processing fee, if applicable(Step 1)

Application processing fees apply only totransmission-related interconnectionrequests, as part of the transmission serv-ices request process.

The application processing fees andrequirements for all transmission service-related requests are provided inAttachment K to Western’s Open AccessTariff.

There is no application fee for non-trans-mission-related interconnections.

System impact study fee (Step 2)A System Impact Study Agreement will beexecuted between Western and therequesting entity which will clearly specifyWestern’s estimate of the actual cost ofthe system impact study. The charge willnot exceed the actual cost of the study.Requesting entities will not be assessed acharge for existing system studies whenthey are applicable, but the requestingentity will be responsible for charges asso-ciated with any modifications to existingplanning studies that are reasonably nec-essary to evaluate the entity’s request.

Funding is required after the SystemImpact Study Agreement is signed andbefore the system impact study is per-formed.

Facilities study fee (Step 3)A facilities study is necessary to evaluatethe impact of the potential interconnec-tion. Once a Facilities Study Agreement isexecuted between Western and therequesting entity, the requesting entity willadvance funds to Western for performingthe study. The facilities study fee is deter-mined on a case-by-case basis.

Funding for environmental review (Step 4)Advance payment to Western by therequesting entity is required to performthe necessary environmental review.Costs are based on historical expenses forsimilar interconnections, are specificallydetermined on a case-by-case basis byWestern, and will not exceed the actualcosts of performing the review. Advancefunding for environmental review may besecured contractually through the SystemImpact or Facilities Study Agreements,and/or through the ConstructionAgreement.

Funding for land acquisition (Step 5)Advance payment to Western by therequesting entity is required for Westernto perform any land acquisition activities.Costs are based on historical or setexpenses for similar projects, are specifi-cally determined on a case-by-case basisby Western, and will not exceed the actualcosts for acquiring land. Advance fundingfor land acquisition may be secured con-tractually through the System Impact orFacilities Study Agreements, and/orthrough the Construction Agreement.

Funding Requirements


10

Funding for facilities design and construction (Step 6)

The facilities study performed by Westernwill include a good faith estimate of (1)the cost of direct assignment facilities tobe charged to the requesting entity and (2)the requesting entity’s appropriate share ofthe cost of any required networkupgrades. The requesting entity will payits share of the costs of new facilities orupgrades, including design, beforeWestern can begin or allow construction.When the facilities study is complete andpresented to the requesting entity, theentity has 30 days to sign and return toWestern a Construction Agreement andprovide the advance payment. If the con-struction of new facilities would requirethe expenditure of Western funds,Western reserves the right to halt con-struction until funds for construction areappropriated.

Funding for equipment replacement (Step 6)

Should replacement of existing equipmentbe required, the equipment will beremoved and replaced at the sole expense

of the requesting entity. However,Western, at its sole discretion and option,may:

A. Participate in the costs of the pro-posed project; and/or

B. Allow ownership of replaced Westernequipment to be transferred to therequesting entity in exchange fortransfer of ownership of the newequipment to Western. The request-ing entity would then receive a con-tract right for the incremental capacityin the new equipment.

Funding for facilities operations andmaintenance (Step 7)

The Interconnection Agreement or otheragreement will set forth funding requiredby the interconnecting entity, if any, forlong-term operations and maintenanceassociated with the interconnection.

Excess payments (Step 7)Any advance payment made by therequesting entity in excess of the actualcosts incurred by Western will be refund-ed, without interest.

Funding Requirements GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCONNECTION

11

Interconnection to Western’s transmissionfacilities will be consistent with Western’smission, Open Access Transmission ServiceTariff (when applicable) and prudent utility

practices. A proposed interconnection mustnot degrade the reliability or operating flexibili-ty of the existing power system, and must meetthe North American Electric ReliabilityCouncil’s Planning Standards and OperatingManual procedures. The interconnection mustcomply with the WSCC policies and proce-dures where the interconnection is geographi-cally located within WSCC’s boundaries andthe MAPP System Design Standards when theinterconnection is geographically located with-in MAPP’s boundaries. When involvingWestern-owned, -operated and -maintainedfacilities, the interconnection must also complywith Western’s Standard Design Criteria.Additionally, the interconnection must adhere

to any independent system operator reliabilitycriteria in effect.

The interconnecting entity will be responsiblefor testing and reporting requirements in accor-dance with applicable NERC PlanningStandards, WSCC Reliability ManagementStandards, MAPP System Design Standards, orany similar standards of a successor organiza-tion to either NERC, WSCC or MAPP.

Additionally, interconnecting generators in theWSCC area must comply with the ReliabilityManagement System Agreement betweenWSCC and Western, effective June 18, 1999.The agreement requires compliance withWSCC reliability criteria and subsequent sanc-tions by WSCC if the generator fails to meetapplicable reliability criteria when intercon-nected to Western’s facilities.

Reliability Requirements


When making an interconnection toWestern’s facilities, the requestingentity shall comply with applicablesafety laws and building and con-

struction codes. These include provisions ofapplicable Federal (Contract Work Hours andSafety Standards Act and regulations promul-gated by the Secretary of Labor pursuant tothe Act), state, or local safety, health and/orindustrial regulations or codes; Western’sPower Systems Safety Manual; and WAPAOrder 3790.1B, Occupational Safety andHealth Program. Copies of the Power SystemsSafety Manual and WAPA Order 3790.1B willbe furnished upon request.

Each generating site and/or interconnectingfacility must be constructed in accordancewith Western’s Standard Design Criteria.Safety-related standard design featuresinclude, but are not limited to:

A. A ground grid that solidly grounds allmetallic structures and other non-ener-gized metallic equipment.

B. Modifications to ground grids of existingsubstations (if necessary) to keep gridvoltage rise within safe levels.

C. Switch operating platforms for all discon-nect switches, with ground conductorsconnected to the operating mechanisms.

D. Disconnect switches (gang-operated) thatare lockable in the open position byWestern.

E. Fall protection features permanentlyinstalled on equipment.

The interconnecting entity must adhere toWestern’s General Power Contract ProvisionNo. 28, Construction and Safety Procedures.In the event that the interconnecting entitydoes not adhere to construction and safetyprocedures, Western may issue an order tostop all or any part of the work until such timethat the entity demonstrates compliance withthe provision at issue. The entity cannot makea claim for compensation or damage resultingfrom such work stoppage. A copy of Western’sGeneral Power Contract Provisions will be pro-vided upon request.

Reporting of all security offenses and incidentsoccurring on property under the charge andcontrol of Western is required by Title 18,United States Code, DOE Order 0470.1,Chapter VII and WAPA Order 5500.1G.Prompt and accurate reporting to the local lawenforcement agency as well as the applicabledispatch center will aid in the protection ofpeople and property.

12

Safety and Security Requirements


13

Western is required to assess thepotential environmental impacts ofany proposed interconnection inaccordance with the National

Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and otherenvironmental regulations. Requesting entitiesare advised to consult with Western as early aspossible in the planning process to obtainguidance with respect to the appropriate leveland scope of any studies or environmentalinformation that Western requires. The U.S.Department of Energy’s NEPA ImplementingProcedures (10 CFR 1021) require that Westernbegin environmental review as soon as practi-cable. The nature of the interconnectionrequest will dictate the level of NEPA compli-ance required.

If the interconnection request does not involveintegration of a new source of generation intoWestern’s transmission facilities, change theoperation limits of existing generation, provideservice to new discrete loads, or cause majorsystem changes (new transmission greater than10 miles or reconstructing existing transmis-sion lines greater than 20 miles) and there areno adverse impacts identified, Western may beable to prepare a categorical exclusion for theinterconnection. This process can take up tosix months to complete, depending on thescope of the interconnection. If the intercon-nection does involve any of the actions men-tioned above, the environmental reviewprocess may take at least 18 months, depend-ing on the scope of the interconnection. IfWestern determines that an environmentalassessment (EA) or an environmental impactstatement (EIS) is required, Western may pre-pare the EA or EIS and, if necessary, use acontractor selected by Western. If an EA isprepared, one result may be a determinationthat an EIS is necessary (in the case that sig-

nificant impacts may occur or controversy islikely), thus extending the time to completeNEPA compliance.

Western may participate in the environmentalprocess of another Federal or state agencyinvolved with a project to satisfy portions of itsNEPA requirements. Environmental reviewsand related studies conducted by other agen-cies cannot, however, be routinely adopted.They must meet the standards placed uponWestern by the U.S. Department of Energy inits NEPA Implementing Procedures.

The environmental process may be influencedby system impact or facilities studies. If theresults of studies demonstrate a need for sys-tem additions to support the interconnection,the environmental studies must address theadditions along with the interconnection. Theapplicable NEPA documents will be completedbefore Western renders a final decision on therequest for interconnection. Western consid-ers the environmental analysis contained inthe NEPA documents in reaching its decisionsfor an interconnection, as stipulated in theU.S. Department of Energy’s NEPAImplementing Procedures.

When the requesting entity is the constructionmanager, the entity shall provide an environ-mental review of the proposed plan so thatWestern can determine what further actions, ifany, are needed to comply with the aboverequirements. A copy of environmental docu-ments prepared by or for another Federal orstate agency involved with the project shouldbe furnished to Western.

When the requesting entity will own equip-ment located in Western’s substation, switch-yard or right-of-way, the requesting entity shall

Environmental Requirements


be financially responsible for all activities nec-essary to comply with the requirements ofexisting or subsequent applicable Federal orstate environmental laws and regulations.Where specific environmental mitigation, asdetermined through the NEPA process, isrequired as a result of construction activities,Western is obligated to report annually on thestatus of such mitigation. The requesting enti-ty shall provide Western with periodic reportsin sufficient detail to permit Western to com-pile and submit its site environmental annualreport.

The requesting entity must comply withWestern’s General Power Contract ProvisionsNo. 29 and 30, Environmental Complianceand Responsibility for Hazardous Materials,respectively. A copy of Western’s GeneralPower Contract Provisions will be providedupon request.

14

Environmental Requirements GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCONNECTION

15

Land acquisition is a process that canbegin as soon as the Application forInterconnection is received—initiatingresearch of property ownership—and con-

tinue through other interconnection processsteps with appraisals, preparation of legaldescriptions, and title search. The process mayextend through the completion of construction.Typically, negotiations between Western, theinterconnecting entity, and/or affectedlandowners do not begin until the environmen-tal record of decision or finding of no signifi-cant impact is complete, prior to construction.

If the interconnecting facilities are to be ownedby Western, than any new land rights neces-sary for the interconnection must be owned byWestern. Western typically conducts all landacquisition activities, including appraisals,legal descriptions, title evidence, negotiations,title clearance, recordation, and payment.Projects may also require damage resolution

with landowners following construction. Allland rights must be acquired pursuant toFederal laws governing acquisition of realproperty, which is particularly important whenother Federal and institutional lands are affect-ed by the interconnection.

In certain circumstances, Western may deter-mine that the requesting entity is capable ofperforming the necessary land rights activities.When this is the case, Western will coordinateclosely with the interconnecting entity toensure proper procedures are followed, andthat the proper land rights are obtained.Agreements concerning land acquisition issuessuch as fee or easement, right-of-way width,and title acceptability must be reachedbetween Western and the interconnecting enti-ty before any land rights are acquired andtransferred to Western.

Land Acquisition Requirements


16

SYSTEM PLANNING Western will conduct or review studies neededto substantiate system impact, reliability andcapability of the transmission facilities giventhe addition of the proposed interconnection.The studies will include, but not be limited to,powerflow, system stability and short circuitstudies. Subsynchronous resonance studiesmay also be required. It is the responsibility ofthe requesting entity to provide any special-ized modelling data—compatible with Instituteof Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE),WSCC, or MAPP formats—for either powerflow or dynamic simulations. Evaluation ofalternatives to the proposed interconnection,such as lower voltage construction, reactivesupport facilities, or upgraded facilities, maybe requested or conducted. Powerflow analy-sis will include 10-year load or resourcegrowth projections and the planned facilitiesneeded to satisfy such requirements. If thestudies indicate that additions or upgrades tothe existing transmission facilities are neces-sary, Western will conduct or review facilitiesstudies to determine the cost of additions orupgrades and the time frame for implementingsystem additions or upgrades.

When Western considers integrating a newresource into transmission facilities, additionalstudies within the system impact or facilitiesstudies may also be required. Operationalproblems on Western’s facilities, either duringnormal or emergency conditions, may affectWestern’s control performance; and under cer-tain conditions, the interconnecting entity mayhave to relinquish unit load and voltage con-trol to Western’s system dispatcher. The powerfactor for both the generating units and loadsshall be measured at the interconnectionpoint. Special region-specific operational stud-ies will evaluate the transmission system and

reliability considerations. The North AmericanElectric Reliability Council’s PlanningStandards and Operating Manual will be usedby Western to evaluate system operating con-siderations.

Should replacement of existing equipment berequired as a result of the interconnection,Western will retain equivalent capacity andoperational control as previously existed.

Power QualityUnbalanced phase voltages and currentscan affect protective relay coordinationand cause high neutral currents and ther-mal overloading of transformers. To pro-tect Western and customer equipment, theinterconnected generator’s or load’s contri-bution at the point of interconnectionshall not cause a voltage unbalance great-er than 1 percent nor a current unbalancegreater than 5 percent. Phase unbalanceis the percent deviation of one phase fromthe average of all three phases.

Harmonics can cause telecommunicationinterference and thermal heating in trans-formers, disabling solid state equipmentand creating resonant over voltages. Toprotect equipment from damage, harmon-ics must be managed and mitigated. Theinterconnected generator or load shall notcreate voltage and current harmonics onWestern’s facilities that exceed the limitsspecified in IEEE Standard 519, Recom-mended Practices and Requirements forHarmonic Control in Electric PowerSystems. Harmonic distortion is defined asthe ratio of the root mean square value ofthe harmonic to the root mean squarevalue of the fundamental voltage or cur-rent. Single frequency and total harmonicdistortion measurements may be conduct-

Technical Requirements


ed at the point of interconnection, genera-tion or load site or other locations onWestern’s facilities to determine whetherthe project is the source of excessive har-monics.

Many methods may be used to restrictharmonics. The preferred method is toinstall a transformer with at least onedelta connection between the generator orload and Western’s facilities. This methodsignificantly limits the amount of voltageand current harmonics entering the trans-mission system.

Voltage fluctuations may be noticeable asvisual lighting variations (flicker) and candamage or disrupt the operation of elec-tronic equipment. IEEE Standard 519provides definitions and limits on accept-able levels of voltage fluctuation. All gen-erators/loads connecting to Western’stransmission facilities shall comply withthe limits set by this Standard.

GenerationAutomatic synchronization shall be super-vised by a synchronizing check relay IEEEDevice 25. This assures that no synchro-nous generator is connected to the powersystem out of synchronization.Generators must meet all applicableAmerican National Standards Institute(ANSI) and IEEE standards. The primemover and the generator should also beable to operate within the full range ofvoltage and frequency excursions thatmay exist on the transmission systemwithout damage to themselves.

Voltage schedules are necessary for effi-cient and reliable electrical power trans-mission and for adequate service to loads.The voltage schedules establish hourlyoperating requirements and may be set forseasons, holidays, days of the week andtime of day. All interconnected synchro-

nous generators are required to participatein voltage regulation by meeting voltageschedules.

Western may require additional reactivecapability or voltage regulation to inte-grate the generation. It is the generatorowner’s responsibility to mitigate anyunacceptable reactive or voltage regula-tion problems created from integrating thegeneration. If Western requires additionalreactive or voltage regulation to solveother problems in an area, Western willnegotiate with the generator owner for anyadditional capability beyond the minimumrequirements stated above.

Synchronous generators are required toproduce or absorb reactive power between0.95 leading and 0.95 lagging power factorfor steady state conditions to meet voltageschedules. Within the Sierra NevadaRegion, Western recommends the generat-ing units conform to the California ISO’sminimum specified power factor range(0.90 lag-producing VARs, and 0.95 lead-absorbing VARs). They are also requiredto produce or absorb reactive power up tothe thermal capability of the generatorduring disturbances. The generator’s volt-age regulator is generally set to maintainconstant voltage rather than constantpower factor. The voltage regulator mustbe capable of maintaining the voltage atthe generator terminal, without hunting,within 0.5 percent of any set-point. Theoperating range of the regulator shall be atleast plus or minus 5 percent of the ratedvoltage of the generator.

The excitation system of synchronous gen-erators is required to be fast-responding;i.e., the voltage response time is 0.5 sec-onds or less. A power system stabilizeruses auxiliary stabilizing signals to controlthe excitation system to improve powersystem dynamic performance. A powersystem stabilizer is required with the exci-

17

Technical RequirementsGENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCONNECTION

tation system for all interconnected syn-chronous generators 50 megavolt-ampere(MVA) and larger (75 MVA and larger forthe MAPP region). However, it may benecessary to use a power system stabilizeron a smaller generator, depending onwhere the generator is interconnected toWestern’s facilities.

A speed governor system is required on allsynchronous generators. The governor reg-ulates the output of the generator as afunction of the system frequency. Thatfunction (called the governor’s “droop”characteristic) must be coordinated withthe governors of other resources, all locat-ed within the same control area, to assureproper system response to frequency vari-ations. The speed governor system shallhave a droop characteristic settablebetween 3 and 7 percent and typically setto 5 percent.

Western’s system protection requirementsare designed and intended to protectWestern’s facilities only. Additional pro-tective relays are typically needed to pro-tect an interconnected generator. It is thegeneration owner’s responsibility to installthe proper protective relaying needed toprotect the generation equipment.Western does not assume any responsibil-ity for protection of the interconnectedgeneration. The owner of the generator issolely responsible for protecting intercon-nected equipment in such a manner thatfaults, imbalances, or other disturbanceson Western’s transmission facilities do notcause damage to the generation facilities.A study of system protection require-ments, funded by the interconnecting enti-ty, may be necessary.

Induction generators or other generators—including wind turbines—without VARcontrol absorb VARs and therefore requirereactive power support from Western’sfacilities. For generators larger than 40

kilowatts, Western will require power fac-tor correction. Power factor correctioncapacitors must be installed either by theowner of the generation or by Western atthe owner’s expense. Switched capacitorssupplied by the generation owner shall beswitched on and off at the request ofWestern. Owners of interconnectedinduction generators shall provide, at aminimum, sufficient reactive power capa-bility to deliver the generator output atunity power factor at the point of intercon-nection.

Induction generators are usually notrequired to participate in voltage regula-tion; however, they must not adverselyaffect voltage schedules. Integration stud-ies may be necessary to determine thereactive power capability necessary toensure that these schedules are main-tained.

Power system disturbances initiated byfaults and forced equipment outagesexpose connected generators to oscilla-tions in voltage and frequency. It isimportant that generators remain in serv-ice to help ensure that any dynamic ortransient oscillations are stable anddamped. Therefore, each generator mustbe capable of continuous operation at0.95 to 1.05 per unit voltage and 59.5 to60.5 Hertz and for even larger deviationsfor short periods of time. Nearly all gener-ators have inherent capability for off-nom-inal operation. Over/under voltage andover/under frequency relays are normallyinstalled to protect the generators fromextended off-nominal operation. Toensure that the interconnected generatorsdo not trip prematurely, the time delaysfor these relays must be coordinated withWestern.

A Remedial Action Scheme (RAS) is a spe-cial protection system that automaticallyinitiates one or more pre-planned correc-

18

Technical Requirements GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCONNECTION

tive measures to restore acceptable powersystem performance following a distur-bance. RAS application mitigates theimpact of system disturbances andimproves system reliability.

A typical disturbance, as it is consideredin the planning and design of the electricaltransmission facilities, is the sudden lossof one or more critical transmission linesor transformers. A widely applied correc-tive measure is to instantaneously drop asufficient amount of generation on thesending end of the lost transmission facili-ty. This is known as generator “dropping,”and a participating generation facility maybe disconnected from the transmission bythe automatic RAS controller, in much thesame way as by a transfer-trip scheme. Ageneration facility should therefore havefull load-rejection capability as neededboth for local line protection and RAS.

Whether a RAS shall be required dependson the overall location and size of thegenerator and load on the transmissionsystem; the nature, consequences andexpected frequency of disturbances; andthe nature of potential alternative trans-mission reinforcements.

If Western requires RAS participation for aparticular generation facility, the generatorowner shall be responsible for all relatedcosts.

All generators connected to Western’sfacilities must meet the power qualitystandards set forth in TechnicalRequirements, Power Quality (page 16).The generator owners must pay for anymitigation efforts necessary to meet thosestandards. Additionally, interconnectinggenerators in the WSCC area must complywith the Reliability Management SystemAgreement between WSCC and Western,which requires compliance with WSCCreliability criteria and subsequent sanc-

tions by WSCC if the generator fails tomeet applicable reliability criteria wheninterconnected to Western’s facilities.

Generation integration may substantiallyincrease fault current levels at nearby sub-stations. Modifications to the groundgrids of existing substations may be neces-sary to keep grid voltage rises within safelevels. The ground grid should bedesigned to ANSI/IEEE Standard 80-1986,IEEE Guide for Safety in AC SubstationGrounding.

Power system equipment is designed towithstand voltage stresses associated withexpected operation. Interconnecting newgeneration resources can change equip-ment duty, and may require that equip-ment be replaced or switchgear, communi-cations, shielding, grounding and/or surgeprotection added to restrict voltage stressto acceptable levels. System impactand/or facilities studies will include theevaluation of the impact of the intercon-nected generator on equipment insulationcoordination. Western will identify anyadditions required to maintain an accept-able level of transmission facility availabil-ity, reliability, equipment insulation mar-gins and safety.

LoadTypically, all loads connected directly toWestern’s facilities are to maintain apower factor between 0.95 lag and 0.95lead as measured at the point where theload interconnects with Western-ownedequipment. If this power factor require-ment is not met, Western may, after givingnotice to correct the condition, installpower factor correction equipment at thecontracting entity’s expense. If Western isrequired to pay for delivery systemimprovements associated with power fac-tor correction on the systems of its trans-mission agents—that are attributable to

19


20


conditions on the system of the intercon-necting entity—the entity shall pay for thecost of such improvements. The appropri-ate Western office can provide specificrequirements.

Western maintains transmission voltagesat levels required for economic and reli-able transmission of electricity. Regulationto keep voltage variations within limitsacceptable to end-use customers is typi-cally provided on distribution. Voltageregulation at transmission voltage levels isdifferent from distribution voltage levels.Load owners are strongly urged to installtheir own voltage regulation equipment.Check with the appropriate Western officefor specific requirements.

All loads connected to Western’s facilitiesmust meet the power quality standards setforth in Technical Requirements, PowerQuality (page 16). The load owner isresponsible for any mitigation efforts nec-essary to meet those standards.Western’s system protection requirementsare designed and intended to protectWestern’s system only. Additional protec-tive relays are typically needed to protectan interconnected load. It is the loadowner’s responsibility to install the properprotective relaying needed to protect theload facilities. Western does not assumeany responsibility for protection of theinterconnected load. The load owner issolely responsible for protecting intercon-nected equipment so that faults, imbal-ances or other disturbances on the trans-mission system do not cause damage tothe load facilities.

To meet the reliability requirements of theWSCC and MAPP systems, under fre-quency and/or under voltage load shed-ding schemes may be required. Any loadconnected to Western’s facilities will beexpected to participate in under frequency

and/or under voltage load shedding ifWestern determines such action is neces-sary to maintain system reliability.

If Western requires load shedding partici-pation for a particular load facility, theload owner shall be responsible for allrelated costs.

A participating load may be disconnectedfrom the transmission by the automaticRAS controller, in much the same way asby a transfer-trip scheme. The load ownershould therefore have full load-rejectioncapability as needed both for local lineprotection and RAS.

Whether RAS shall be required dependson the overall location and size of theload on the transmission system; thenature, consequences and expected fre-quency of disturbances; and the nature ofpotential alternative transmission rein-forcements.

If Western requires RAS participation for aparticular load, the load owner shall beresponsible for all related costs.

DESIGN Western will provide for design, specificationand construction of the proposed interconnec-tion for Western owned, operated and main-tained facilities. Non-Western design may beallowed on a case-by-case basis provided ini-tial approval and subsequent review byWestern. For transmission line taps owned byothers, prints of applicable facility drawingswill be furnished by Western upon request.All work performed by Western, including revi-sions to existing Western drawings, will be atthe expense of the requesting entity.

Modifications to Western’s facilities to accom-modate the proposed interconnection shalladhere to Western’s Standard Design Criteria

21

and System Design Guide for Tap Stations(Engineering Manual 6430.1). Any variationfrom the Standard Design Criteria may be con-sidered on a case-by-case basis. Copies ofthese documents are available upon request.

Drawings for facility additions must conform toWestern’s Drafting Standards and be approvedby Western. The requesting entity must sup-ply drawings on a magnetic medium or in anelectronic file, compatible with Western’s com-puter-aided design system, AutoCAD. Therequesting entity must also reimburse Westernfor drawing costs. Drawings become or remainthe property of Western. Copies of Western’sDrafting Standards will be furnished to theentity requesting the interconnection if thedesign is not produced by Western. “As-built”drawings must be provided prior to operationof the Interconnection Agreement. Three com-plete sets of accurate substation drawings shallbe provided to Western for non-Western-owned substations. These drawings shallinclude, but not be limited to, station plotplans, equipment layouts, single-line diagrams,control circuit schematics and wiring diagrams.Updated copies of these drawings shall be fur-nished to Western within 60 days of any modi-fication to non-Western owned equipment orsubstations within Western’s facilities.

Power current breakers, disconnecting switch-es, and other equipment installed in Western’sfacilities shall adhere to Western numberingschemes. Breaker and switch operating num-bers will be assigned by Western. All switchesto be operated by Western will be locked withlocks furnished by Western. All switches to beoperated by Western shall be designed inaccordance with Western’s Standard DesignCriteria.

SubstationsGenerally, power circuit breakers must beinstalled at all interconnections. Typicalspecifications covering circuit breakerrequirements are available from Western

upon request. A review of the surround-ing area power system characteristics,including system stability studies, will bemade for a final determination when theneed for out-of-step switching capability isquestionable.

Installation of equipment in substationsmust conform to Western’s requirementsand must be approved by Western. Oil-filled equipment, including bushings, shallnot contain polychlorinated biphenyls(PCB). In addition, oil-filled equipmentshall be permanently labeled by the man-ufacturer as non-PCB. Certification shallbe provided to Western at or before thetime of installation. Oil-filled equipmentmay require an oil spill containment sys-tem to comply with U.S. EnvironmentalProtection Agency or state regulations.Any increased equipment costs due tothese requirements will be borne by theentity requesting the equipment.

All interconnecting substations must havea ground grid that solidly grounds allmetallic structures and other non-ener-gized metallic equipment. This grid shalllimit the ground potential gradients tosuch voltage and current levels that willnot endanger the safety of people or dam-age equipment located in, or immediatelyadjacent to, the station under normal andfault conditions.

Transmission Line TapsProposed taps to Western’s facilities aresubject to approval on a case-by-casebasis. Additional taps can be placed onexisting lines as long as N-1 outage crite-ria is not violated and all loads can be fedradially from either terminal, systemintact.

N-1 outage criteria means the intercon-nected power system shall be operated atall times so that general system instability,


22


uncontrolled separation, cascading out-ages and/or voltage collapse will not occuras a result of the loss of a single systemelement.

Taps to lines of 138-kV, 115-kV and 69-kVmust meet the following minimum criteria:

(1) A line section protected by circuitbreakers may have a mileage maxi-mum for tap lines that are not protect-ed by circuit breakers, determined ona case-by-case basis.

(2) A proposed interconnection to a trans-mission line, whenever possible asdetermined by Western, will be con-nected to the line at the high-side orlow-side of an existing tap. Two ormore connections at the high-side ofan existing tap are considered multi-ple taps and may require sectionaliz-ing circuit breakers. Connections atthe low-side of an existing tap mayrequire appropriate compensation tothe owner of an existing transformerfor use of the tap substation facilitiesby Western or the interconnectingentity.

(3) Normally, no more than one connec-tion, without sectionalizing circuitbreakers, is permitted between 115-kVand 138-kV transmission line break-ers. Western may, at its discretion,allow two or more connectionsbetween transmission line breakers if(a) there is no degradation of systemreliability, and (b) there is no impactto safety or maintenance activities, orsuch impacts are mitigated.

(4) New lines of 69-kV and above willhave overhead ground wire shieldingover the entire length of the tap-line.A breaker may be required for the tapline due to relaying or specific reliabil-ity criteria.

(5) Interrupter switches or equivalentcapable of interrupting load andcharging current shall be installed inthe line sectionalizing positions for alltap substations. These interrupterswill be used to de-energize line sec-tions without interruption of thetapped loads, if necessary. Line sec-tionalizing switches installed in trans-mission lines shall be furnished withgrounding blades, and must have avisible air gap. Normally, Westernassumes ownership of the sectionaliz-ing switches. If Western does notassume ownership, however, Westernwill still maintain operational control.

(6) An ungrounded high voltage windingis the preferred transformer connec-tion on the tapped line; however, nomore than one grounded transformerwill be permitted to tap a 138-kV, 115-kV or 69-kV line.

Taps to transmission lines of 161-kV andhigher voltages will not normally beallowed since lines at these voltage levelsrequire the highest reliability. If excep-tions are made, approved taps to trans-mission lines of voltages 161-kV and 230-kV (no taps for 345-kV or higher will beallowed) must meet the following criteria:

(1) Only one tap between sectionalizingcircuit breakers will be allowed. Therequesting entity, at its cost, will beresponsible for adding necessary cir-cuit breakers when the requested tapexceeds one connection between cir-cuit breakers.

(2) A section of line protected by circuitbreakers may have a mileage maxi-mum for tap lines that are not protect-ed by circuit breakers, determined ona case-by-case basis.

23

(3) All tap lines will have overheadground wire over their entire length.

(4) Nearly all Western high-voltage linesare protected by high-speed pilotrelaying. Relaying for tap-line circuitfaults must not measurably degradethe line relaying or interfere with thecapability of high-speed re-closing ofthe tapped transmission line.

(5) High-speed clearing of all tap-linefaults from the tap station will berequired under normal operating con-ditions if the tap station is a source ofpositive-sequence fault current tofaults on the tapped line.

(6) Interrupter switches or equivalentcapable of interrupting load andcharging current shall be installed inthe line sectionalizing positions for alltap substations. These interrupterswill be used to de-energize line sec-tions without interruption of thetapped loads, if necessary. Line sec-tionalizing switches installed in trans-mission lines shall be furnished withgrounding blades, and must have avisible air gap. Normally, Westernassumes ownership of the sectionaliz-ing switches. If Western does notassume ownership, however, Westernwill still maintain operational control.

The tap should not adversely affect theprotection scheme or outage number onthe present tap(s). Additional taps can beplaced on existing lines where delta-wyetransformers are used. Auto-transformersor three-winding transformers presentsources of zero sequence current and canmake both directional ground over currentand ground distance relaying complicated.It is best to sectionalize whenever auto- orthree-winding transformers are needed.

The proximity of the tap to either line ter-minal may affect the protective relayingscheme on the transmission line. The taptransformer impedance and relative loca-tion of the tap on the transmission linemay necessitate pilot relaying be installedon the line in order to prevent tripping ofthe line for faults in the low voltage tapsystem.

Entities requesting non-Western designedtransmission line taps shall submitdesigns, calculations and drawingsdemonstrating that the structures andfoundations have been designed in accor-dance with Western’s Standard DesignCriteria.

Taps to transmission lines with insulatedoverhead ground wires shall not degradethe capability of the existing overheadground wires.

System ProtectionProtective relaying requirements for eachinterconnection will be determined byWestern after receipt of a preliminary sin-gle-line drawing of the proposed intercon-nection and a single-line drawing andmaps of the requesting entity’s facilities orsystem in the area. The entity should pro-vide re-closer and fuse ratings, relayingdata and line and transformer imped-ances. High-speed pilot, backup, breakerfailure and out-of-step relaying are normalrequirements for 230-kV voltage intercon-nections. Specialized relaying may berequired to provide automatic load or gen-eration shedding, or interconnected sys-tem separation.

New design requirements for system con-trol are included within the Operationsand Maintenance Section.


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OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE Operation and dispatching authority of the cir-cuit breakers, disconnects, interrupters andmotor-operated disconnect switches that arean integral part of Western’s facilities shallremain with Western. The appropriate powersystem operations office will order switchingand issue all clearances and hot-line orders onthe transmission portion of the interconnectionor substation. This will involve use ofWestern’s switching and clearance procedures,including use of Western locks and tags.Issuance of clearances, hot-line orders, or gen-eral switching may be in the form of an inter-company clearance to a dispatching agent ofthe entity owning the facility rather thandirectly to a job supervisor. Switching on theequipment that is connected to and/or associ-ated with Western’s facilities will be directedby the Western dispatcher according toWestern’s Power Systems Switching Procedures.

The owner of installed equipment will beresponsible for its proper operation and main-tenance. Equipment must be operated andmaintained in accordance with manufacturer’srecommendations, prudent utility practicesand applicable environmental and safety stan-dards. This may include fall protectionrequirements (design and maintenance).Western may require additional equipment toassure a reliable interconnection and to safe-guard the proper operating conditions of itspower system. Western prefers, in manycases, to provide required operation and main-tenance services when funds have beenadvanced to cover these costs through theInterconnection Agreement. Costs mayinclude training on maintenance proceduresfor unfamiliar equipment.

The interconnecting entity will write StandardOperating Procedures in coordination withWestern for the interconnected facility.

Five sets of instructions and manufacturer’sdrawings shall be furnished to Western foreach piece of equipment that Western oper-ates.

System margins allow for operational flexibilityin the areas of (1) power flow, for impedanceconcerns; (2) fault duty, for reliability duringswitching and line fault tripping; (3) sub-syn-chronous resonance, affecting new equipmentthrough ground paths on existing equipment;and (4) stability, relating to overloads or VARsupport on existing system components.

If the interconnection uses system margin reli-ability in Western’s facilities other than at thespecific interconnection, the entity shall:

(1) Refund those components of margin usedto the owners of the margin;

(2) Rebuild facilities affected to add or replacethe margin consumed; or

(3) Meet other such requirements as agreed toby Western and the entities.

Western will demonstrate the margin impactusing systems planning models for power flow,fault duty, sub-synchronous resonance andstability.

If construction is done by others, Western mayrequire at least one Western representative bepresent to coordinate and provide for switch-ing, clearances, special work permits andinspections during construction work onWestern’s right-of-way. The Western represen-tative will also conduct operability checkouton equipment, including metering, relay set-tings and tests and protective device operation(circuit breakers, motor-operated disconnects,etc.). Final electrical connections to Western’sfacilities will be made by Western or underWestern’s supervision.

Maintenance will normally be performed by

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and at the expense of the entity that owns theequipment or facility when the proposed inter-connection involves a tap or substation sec-tionalizing one of Western’s transmission lines,in accordance with the InterconnectionAgreement. Western shall be notified andhave the right to witness settings and testing ofrelays, meters and controls that could affectthe integrity and security of Western’s facili-ties. Western shall also have the right of entryto interconnected facilities for emergency oper-ation and maintenance of equipment or struc-tures Western deems necessary to maintain areliable power system.

System ControlSupervisory control by Western of linepower circuit breakers, interrupters ormotor-operated disconnects will berequired on all interconnections wherebreaker, interrupter or disconnect switchoperations can, in Western’s opinion,directly affect the security of Western’spower system. The remote terminal units(RTU) for supervisory control and dataacquisition (SCADA) shall be compatiblewith the SCADA system used within theWestern region in which the interconnec-tion is located. Installation of the RTU ata new location or modification of an RTUat an existing facility will generally be per-formed by Western, at the expense of therequesting entity. Western will performthe necessary expansion, including hard-ware and software changes, to the SCADAmaster station equipment at the request-ing entity’s expense for that portion attrib-uted to the new interconnection.Transducers, interface hardware andappropriate communication channelscompatible with existing SCADA systemrequirements shall be furnished by therequesting entity. Specifications for suchequipment will be provided upon request.The requesting entity shall provide neces-sary auxiliary and control relays, hot-lineindication, local-supervisory switches, hot-

line order lamp and all other equipmentnecessary to interface with Western’ssupervisory control equipment.

Interconnections that establish additionalor new control area boundaries requirethe requesting entity to furnish all neces-sary control area metering equipment.These requirements may include, but arenot limited to:

(1) Analog and/or digital telemetering atthe point of interconnection;

(2) Analog to digital conversion equip-ment and tone gear, as required, atboth the point of interconnection andWestern’s power system control cen-ter;

(3) Totalizing equipment at the point ofinterconnection or some intermediatepoint on the communications link. Amultiport RTU may be substituted insome cases. If a multiport RTU isused, a points list identifying alarms,events and telemetered quantities willbe jointly developed between therequesting entity and Western. Theservice agreement implementing themultiport RTU will includeoperating/dispatch jurisdiction, pri-mary and backup service control pro-tocol, SCADA tagging and controldesign, switching procedures and defi-nitions of terms used by the systemoperators;

(4) Communications links to bothWestern and the other organization’spower system control center; and/or

(5) Automatic generation control hard-ware and software changes or addi-tions at the power system control cen-ters.


Western’s telemetering, scheduling andinterconnection metering are performed ona megawatt or whole megawatthour basis;therefore, interconnection metering andtotalizing equipment shall meet this crite-rion. In some of Western’s load controlareas, a dynamic schedule to the appro-priate automatic generation controller maybe a consideration for radial tap lines toWestern’s facilities whenever the load issupplied from a source outside theWestern control area. Similarly, internalgenerating resources supplying loads out-side Western’s load control area mayrequire special equipment at Western’sand other organizations’ power systemcontrol centers.

Ownership and maintenanceOwnership of installed facilities is deter-mined on a case-by-case basis. However,Western generally retains operation anddispatching authority of those facilitiesthat Western does not own but considersto be an integral part of Western’s facili-ties.

The owner of equipment installed onWestern property is financially responsiblefor proper maintenance of the equipmentin accordance with the manufacturer’s rec-ommendations and prudent utility prac-tices. Western reserves the right to per-form all maintenance on equipmentinstalled on Western property.

Western reserves the right to maintainbackup control on all facilities that inter-connect with Western’s transmission facili-ties and that may be vital to system stabil-ity and telemetry values.

Contractual agreements implementinginterconnection by others to Western’sfacilities will normally allow Western orWestern’s customers the right to connectto either the high-side or low-side bus of

the substation in which Western main-tains ownership rights, at the incrementalcost of the additions. Appropriate com-pensation for use of the tap substationfacilities by Western or its customer willbe arranged if the low-side bus of the sub-station is being tapped. Embedded costsare not reimbursed.

Western reserves the right to approvetransmission system changes at the tap,substation, or interconnection that affectoperation of Western’s facilities, includinginterconnecting with facilities of a thirdentity.

Western will operate and perform routinemaintenance on facilities located in itssubstations unless otherwise specified inthe Interconnection Agreement. Whenthe proposed replacement or additions areat a Western substation, contractualarrangements will include provisions foran advance of funds for the costs of laborand other expenses, including allocableoverhead costs, associated with operationand routine maintenance work performedby Western.

When an existing Western transformer isreplaced, maintenance costs attributed tothe new transformer will be shared on thebasis of the ratio of the capacity retainedby Western to the capacity of the newtransformer. When an additional trans-former is involved, maintenance costsattributed to the new transformer normallywill be the responsibility of the equipmentowner. Periodic advances of funds maybe required to cover the estimated cost ofoperation and maintenance work to beperformed by Western on equipmentowned by others, as set forth in theInterconnection Agreement. If Western isrequired by reliability concerns to upgradea facility or add an interconnection, therequesting entity shall fund its part of thepower facilities changes.

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Western will perform maintenance onrelaying and control equipment and otherassociated equipment for which Westernhas operating responsibility, unless other-wise agreed.

Requirements for operations, mainte-nance, ownership and replacement ofequipment associated with an intercon-nection facility will be specified in a newor amended contract (InterconnectionAgreement) with the requesting entity.

COMMUNICATIONS AND METERING Communications

Western or the requesting entity shall pro-vide communications facilities sufficient tomeet Western’s telephone, radio, systemprotection, remote meter reading andEnergy Management System/SCADArequirements. Western shall, unless oth-erwise agreed to by Western and the inter-connecting entity, design, furnish, andinstall all communications that are anintegral part of Western’s facilities.

The communication channel and channelhardware will be provided by the request-ing entity. Western will specify the type,speed and characteristics of the communi-cation channel equipment so that compat-ibility with existing communications,supervisory control, relaying and teleme-tering equipment is maintained. The spe-cific type of communication equipment tobe furnished by the requesting entity willbe reviewed and approved by Western.The requesting entity will reimburseWestern for the costs of any additionalfacilities provided by Western.

Fiber optic additions to new or existingWestern transmission lines will be consid-ered on a case-by-case basis. Technical

analysis of clearances, structural loadsand electrical field effects may limit appli-cations. Outage restrictions and mainte-nance responsibilities may also impactpotential paths. Western reserves theright to negotiate the acquisition of indi-vidual optical fibers on the circuit, peragreement between the interconnectingentity and Western.

MeteringCurrent transformers used for revenuemetering circuits must meet the accuracystandards, as specified under IEEEStandard Requirements of InstrumentTransformers, ANSI/IEEE C57.13, for anaccuracy class of 0.3 percent at all bur-dens. The thermal current rating of cur-rent transformers shall exceed the maxi-mum current capacity of the circuitinvolved by a factor of 1.5 to 2.0.

Voltage transformers used for revenuemetering circuits must meet the accuracystandards, as specified under ANSI/IEEEC57.13, of 0.3 percent accuracy with thefollowing burdens:

(1) “W” through “Y” burden for 25-kVand below; and

(2) “W” through “ZZ” burden for above25-kV.

Revenue metering with mass memory stor-age shall be used if the estimated maxi-mum demand is 500 kilovolt-amperes orgreater, or if maximum simultaneousdemand billing is contractually required.Such revenue metering shall be compati-ble with the metering policy establishedby Western in the region where the rev-enue meter will be located.

On Western-owned facilities, meters shallbe installed on the primary side of the sys-tem.


All arrangements for system studies,design and construction, ownership,operations, maintenance, and replace-ment of equipment must be set forth in

written contractual agreements betweenWestern and the requesting entity prior to startof any work and at appropriate intervals there-after (see Interconnections Process, page 4).

All work related to interconnecting toWestern’s facilities is subject to Western’sapplicable General Power Contract Provisionsin effect at the time of contract negotiations.These Provisions will be furnished uponrequest.

When Western determines that an intercon-nection is consistent with the requirements inthis document and Western’s Tariff (if applica-ble), contractual agreements will be preparedby Western and furnished to the requestingentity. Western requires interconnection toany facilities adhere to the requirements andspecifications of the contractual agreementsunless specifically waived by Western.

Contractual agreements establish estimatedcosts, advance of funds, work to be performed,projected time frames and all other cost- andwork-related items.

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Contractual Requirements


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Questions or concerns regarding theserequirements and related interconnec-tions issues can be addressed to thefollowing Western offices:

Colorado River Storage Project CustomerService Center

P.O. Box 11606Salt Lake City, UT 84147-0606

(801) 524-6372www.wapa.gov/crsp/crsp.htm

Desert Southwest Customer ServiceRegion

P.O. Box 6457Phoenix, AZ 85005-6457

(602) 352-2522www.wapa.gov/dsw/dsw.htm

Rocky Mountain Customer Service RegionP.O. Box 3700Loveland, CO 80539-3003

(970) 490-7201www.wapa.gov/rm/rm.htm

Sierra Nevada Customer Service Region114 Parkshore DriveFolsom, CA 95630-4710

(916) 353-4418www.wapa.gov/sn/snr.htm

Upper Great Plains Customer ServiceRegion

P.O. Box 35800Billings, MT 59107-5800

(406) 247-7405www.wapa.gov/ugp/ugp.htm

Western Points of Contact


Drafting Standards, Engineering Manual6403.4, Western Area Power Administration,updated 1999.

General Power Contract Provisions, WesternArea Power Administration, 1999.

Guide for Safety on AC Substation Grounding,Standard 80-1986, Institute for Electrical andElectronics Engineering.

Institute for Electrical and ElectronicsEngineering Standard Requirements forInstrument Transformers, ANSI/IEEE C57.13.

National Environmental Policy ActImplementing Procedures, U.S. Department ofEnergy, 10 CFR 1021.

North American Reliability Council OperatingManual, Updated. (1999).

North American Reliability Council PlanningStandards, Updated. (1997).

Open Access Transmission Service Tariff, Wes-tern Area Power Administration, 63 FR 521.

Order 3790.1B, Occupational Safety and HealthProgram, Western Area Power Administration.

Power Systems Safety Manual, Western AreaPower Administration, 1999.

Power Systems Switching Procedures, WesternArea Power Administration.

Recommended Practices and Requirements forHarmonic Control in Electrical Power Systems,Standard 519, Institute for Electrical andElectronics Engineering.

Reliability Management System Agreement,between Western Systems CoordinatingCouncil and Western Area Power Administra-tion, June 18, 1999.

Standard Design Criteria, Western Area PowerAdministration, 1999.

System Design Guide for Tap Stations,Engineering Manual 6430.1, Western AreaPower Administration.

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References


Western Area Power AdministrationApplication for Interconnection

Thank you for your interest in interconnecting to Western Area Power Administration’s (Western) transmission facilities. Thisapplication should be used in conjunction with Western’s General Requirements for Interconnection. Please complete thisapplication and return it to Western to ensure the most expedient and thorough response. Completing this application for inter-connection does not qualify the requesting entity, or otherwise pertain to, the receipt of transmission. Transmission servicerequires a separate application under Western’s Open Access Transmission Service Tariff (63 FR 521).

1. Date of Application: ____________________ 2. Proposed/Estimated Date of Interconnection: ____________________

3. Name of Contact: _______________________________ 4. Title of Contact: __________________________________

5. Company/Organization Name: ________________________________________________________________________

6. Full Street Address (include State and ZIP): ____________________________________________________________

7. Telephone and Fax Numbers: _________________________________ 8. E-mail:______________________________

9. Name, Title, Company/Organization, Address, Phone, Fax and E-mail address of Authorized InterconnectingContractor/Representative, if applicable: ________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________

10. Type of Interconnection (mark all that apply):■■ Transmission line tap(s) ■■ Substation breaker bay additions■■ Additional delivery point(s) to existing customer(s)■■ Generation tie-line(s)■■ Other (please specify) _____________________________________________

11. Description of Requested Interconnection (include as much of the following information as possible on attached sheets;mark all that apply):■■ Single-line diagram(s) showing the proposed interconnection■■ Drawing(s) indicating physical arrangements of existing and proposed facilities■■ Geographic location of proposed interconnection and structure numbers, if available■■ Description of proposed routing and dimensions and configurations of new structures and facilities■■ Description and ratings of proposed transformers, circuit breakers, switches, metering, associated communications,

and relaying and other equipment■■ Description of generating resources or loads ■■ Proposed transmission path(s) and service arrangements between resources and associated loads, where applicable■■ Appropriate revenue and telemetering equipment specifications■■ Copies of relevant planning or operational studies■■ Proposed construction schedule■■ Copies of relevant environmental impact assessments, reports, or projections; or description of anticipated scope of

environmental review

12. Name and Title of Applicant:__________________________________________________________________________

13. Signature of Applicant: _________________________________________ Date: ______________________________

Please send the completed application for interconnection to the appropriate Western office (see reverse). A Western repre-sentative will contact you when the application is received. Please allow up to 30 days for processing of the application onceit is received by Western. For further information, see Western’s General Requirements for Interconnection, available uponrequest or at Western’s Website at www.wapa.gov; or contact the appropriate Western office.

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For Western UseDate of receipt: __________________By whom: _______________________Project manager: _________________Office: __________________________

Western Points of Contact

Colorado River Storage Project Customer Service CenterP.O. Box 11606Salt Lake City, UT 84147-0606

(801) 524-6372www.wapa.gov/crsp/crsp.htm

Desert Southwest Customer Service RegionP.O. Box 6457Phoenix, AZ 85005-6457

(602) 352-2522www.wapa.gov/dsw/dsw.htm

Rocky Mountain Customer Service RegionP.O. Box 3700Loveland, CO 80539-3003

(970) 490-7201www.wapa.gov/rm/rm.htm

Sierra Nevada Customer Service Region114 Parkshore DriveFolsom, CA 95630-4710

(916) 353-4418www.wapa.gov/sn/snr.htm

Upper Great Plains Customer Service RegionP.O. Box 35800Billings, MT 59107-5800

(406) 247-7405www.wapa.gov/ugp/ugp.htm

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September 20, 1999

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