On July 23, 2024, the Midwest Independent System Operator (MISO) Interconnection Process Working Group (IPWG) convened to discuss the updates and improvements in the grid interconnection process.
Feedback and Specific Updates
The meeting opened with an overview of recent activities, focusing on key updates such as adjustments made based on stakeholder feedback regarding grid-forming battery energy storage system (GFM BESS) requirements and the removal of storage charging limitations in grid interconnection agreements. Another significant update was the joint operating agreements (JOA) with PJM, which are currently under legal review and expected to be presented in September. These revisions involve coordinating queue priorities and other operational procedures between the two grid operators.
Upcoming Events and Initiatives
Several upcoming events were announced to further engage and prepare stakeholders. These include a Distributed Energy Resources (DER) Task Force Meeting, a Customer Readiness Symposium scheduled for September 25, and an Annual Customer Experience Survey aimed at improving service and user experience.
Technical Standards Update: IEEE 2800
Discussion also covered the implementation of IEEE 2800 standards, essential for setting technical requirements for new grid connections. Updates to disturbance monitoring requirements were discussed, focusing on ensuring alignment with upcoming changes in industry standards. The session covered the ongoing feedback cycles crucial in refining the standards, with current discussions centered on disturbance monitoring and recording requirements. Detailed implementation timelines for these standards were shared, applying to projects starting from the 2023 cycle, including exceptions until January 1, 2026, for specific projects.
Challenges in Hybrid and Co-Located Resources
The complexities of integrating hybrid systems into the grid were a significant part of the discussion. Concerns were raised about the technical challenges of ensuring compliance with grid performance requirements when multiple energy sources are involved, especially for DC-coupled systems where solar and storage share a common inverter, which introduces additional complexities compared to AC-coupled systems where each resource has its own inverter.
Clarification on Inter-RTO Agreements
There were questions about updating affected system study agreements, especially in light of evolving collaborations with PJM. The discussion emphasized the need for stakeholders to initiate direct contact with neighboring RTOs/ISOs to manage interconnections effectively and called for clearer communication from MISO regarding processes and timelines to ensure all parties are well-informed.
