What is a critical requirement of the NERC COM standards for communication among operators?

The critical requirement of the NERC COM standards for communication among operators emphasizes the importance of having documented and clear communication protocols. These protocols ensure that all parties involved in grid operations have a mutual understanding of how to communicate effectively during normal operations as well as in emergency situations. This clarity helps to minimize misunderstandings that could lead to operational issues or even catastrophic failures in the grid.

Having documented protocols provides a reference point for operators, ensuring consistency and reliability in communication. It allows for a structured approach to sharing information, decision-making, and coordination among different entities or operators. Such protocols may cover various aspects, including the format of communication, frequency of updates, and methods for conveying important information, which all contribute to maintaining the stability and reliability of the electric grid.

While training operators in inter-entity protocols, using high-speed internet, and conducting team-building exercises are valuable elements of a robust operational framework, they do not directly address the fundamental requirement of clear and documented communication protocols as outlined in the NERC COM standards. Therefore, ensuring these communication protocols are established and followed is essential for effective collaboration in the electric power system.