Submission Document

Design of the System Restoration

Plan for Ireland

In accordance with the requirements of

Articles 23 and 4(5) of the Commission
Regulation (EU) 2017/2196
Establishing a network code on
electricity emergency and restoration
16th October 2020

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 1
Disclaimer
EirGrid plc as the Transmission System Operator (TSO) for Ireland makes no warranties
or representations of any kind with respect to the information contained in this document.
We accept no liability for any loss or damage arising from the use of this document or
any reliance on the information it contains. The use of information contained within this
proposal paper for any form of decision making is done so at the user’s sole risk.

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 2
 Table of Contents
Table of Contents ................................................................................................................................... 3
Abbreviations ......................................................................................................................................... 4
1. Purpose ............................................................................................................................................... 5
2. Introduction ........................................................................................................................................ 6
2.1. Relevant Legislation ..................................................................................................................... 8
3. Public Consultation ......................................................................................................................... 13
3.1. Summary of Responses ............................................................................................................. 13
4. Design of the System Restoration Plan ......................................................................................... 14
4.1. Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 14
4.2. Assumptions of the System Restoration Plan ............................................................................ 17
4.3. Activation of the Restoration Plan .............................................................................................. 19
4.4. Re-energisation Procedure ......................................................................................................... 22
3.4.1 Load Restoration and Frequency Management ....................................................... 23
3.4.2 Voltage Control during Subsystem Restoration ....................................................... 23
3.4.3 Synchronising Generators ........................................................................................ 23
4.5. Frequency Management ............................................................................................................. 25
4.6. Resynchronisation – System restoration back to Normal State ................................................. 26
4.7. Resume Normal Operation ......................................................................................................... 26
5. System Restoration Plan Implementation ..................................................................................... 28
6. Plan Review ...................................................................................................................................... 28
7. Next Steps......................................................................................................................................... 28
Definitions............................................................................................................................................. 29

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 3
 Abbreviations

 NCER – Network Code for Emergency Restoration

 PSRP – Power System Restoration Plan
 TSO – Transmission System Operation
 SDP – System Defence Plan
 DSO – Distribution System Operator
 SGU - Significant Grid User
 NCC – National Control Centre
 SONI - System Operator Northern Ireland
 SOGL – System Operator Guideline
 RfG – Requirements for Generators
 HVDC – High Voltage Direct Current
 DCC – Demand Connection Code
 OPTEL – Operational Telephony
 CRU – Commission for the Regulation of Utilities
 SRP – System Restoration Plan
 EAS – European Awareness System
 MVAr – Mega Volt-Ampere reactive
 EWIC – East-West Interconnector
 GC – Grid Code
 CDGU – Centrally Dispatched Generation Unit
 NDCC – DSO National Distribution Control Centre

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 4
1. Purpose
This document has been developed in accordance with COMMISSION REGULATION
(EU) 2017/2196 of 24 November 2017 “establishing a network code on electricity
emergency and restoration”1 (referred to as NCER), which came into force on the 18th of
December 2017. Under NCER the Transmission System Operators (TSO) of a member
state is required to develop and consult on a System Restoration Plan (SRP) prior to
submission to the relevant regulatory authority for approval.

This SRP has been designed based on the requirements detailed within Articles 23 to 34
of the NCER, the high-level requirements of these articles include:

 Design of the SRP

 Implementation of the SRP
 Activation of the SRP
 Measures of the SRP

The SRP provides an overview of the power system restoration measures available to
EirGrid as the TSO. It also outlines the roles and responsibilities of ESBN as the
Distribution System Operator (DSO) and Significant Grid Users (SGUs) that act as
restoration service providers who are called upon during the implementation of the SRP.

This document defines system restoration measures and procedures that are
implemented within the EirGrid TSO controlled area of Ireland. In conjunction with how
they relate to the relevant articles of NCER and the Grid Code 2, whilst providing the
reader with an:

 Overview of the system restoration

 The measures to be implemented by designated parties under NCER

This is not an operational document to be used by the TSO in the event a blackout state.
The step by step actions used by EirGrid National Control Centre (NCC) are included in
the Power System Restoration Plan (PSRP). Note that for security and confidentiality
reasons, the full details of the PSRP are not included in this document.

1
https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32017R2196&from=en
2
http://www.eirgridgroup.com/site-files/library/EirGrid/Grid-Code.pdf

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 5
2. Introduction
There are various statutory obligations to which a TSO must adhere to from European
directives, through to the applicable codes. The hierarchy order is illustrated in Figure 1
below.

Figure 1 – Hierarchy of Regulations (for illustration purposes only)

NCER is one of a suite of European Network Codes and Guidelines that seek to achieve
a fully functioning and interconnected energy market to ensure the security of supply and
to benefit all consumers via competitive markets across the EU.

The NCER aims to establish a set of common minimum requirements and principles for
the measures and procedures of TSOs, DSOs and SGUs when a power system is in
emergency, blackout or restoration state. This SRP concentrates on operating the power
system when in blackout or restoration state. The NCER links and interacts with a
number of other Network Codes, including but not limited to:

 System Operation Guideline (SOGL), EU Regulation 2017/14853

 Requirements for Generators (RfG), EU Regulation 2016/6314
 High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC), EU regulation 2016/14475
 Demand Connection Code (DCC), EU Regulation 2016/13886

3
https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32017R1485&from=EN
4
https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32016R0631&from=EN
5
https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32016R1447&from=EN
6
https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32016R1388&from=EN

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 6
From Figure 1, EU Regulations supersede national legislation and have primacy over
other regulations. Specifically, the design of this SRP is compiled in accordance with
NCER Article 23 and is consulted upon in in accordance with Article 7.

The first revision of the design of the SRP proposal was consulted on from the 14th
November 2018 to 12th December 2018 and received no responses. On 18 December
2018, a proposal was submitted to the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) for
consultation. On the 2nd September 2019, the CRU published a decision to not endorse
the proposal and sought amendments to the document submitted by EirGrid plc. The
purpose of this document is to consult on the revised proposals.

This design of a SRP is not intended to replace any provisions in existing operating
procedures, it is providing an overview of how the system restoration measures specified
in NCER will be satisfied, including reference to existing codes.

The EirGrid Power System Restoration Plan (PSRP) provides a detailed plan for TSO to
restore the power system following a total or partial blackout in Ireland. EirGrid, and
previously ESB National Grid, has had a PSRP in place for many years as per EirGrid
Grid Code requirement OC 9.5.

Version 11 of the Power System Restoration Plan is the latest version of the plan and is
to be implemented in April 2020. Updates to the plan in accordance with the Network
Code requirements on Emergency and Restoration (NCER) have been included, where
appropriate. The plan has also been updated to reflect the changing characteristics of
the power system since the last publication. A number of additional 220 kV and 110 kV
transmission stations have been energised and these have been included in the priority
stations list where appropriate. New control synchronising facilities in designated
transmission stations have been commissioned providing additional locations on the
transmission system for resynchronising subsystems. Generators that have been
decommissioned have also been removed from the plan. There have been no changes
to the Black Start Units.

Note that for security and confidentiality reasons, the full details of the PSRP are not
included in this documentation.

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 7
2.1. Relevant Legislation

The System Restoration Plan has been drafted taking into account the operational
security limits set out in Article 25 of Regulation (EU) 2017/14857, and Article 23 of the
NCER.

Table 1 below provides a summary of each subsection of Article 23 of the NCER and
where compliance is demonstrated in the relevant legislation or documents:

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 8
Article Subsection Requirement Relevant Documentation
23(1) By 18 December 2018, each TSO shall design a restoration This document (the System Restoration Plan) will be subject
plan in consultation with relevant DSOs, SGUs, national to public consultation in accordance with Article 7 (public
regulatory authorities or entities referred to in Article 4(3), consultation) of NCER. This consultation will include the
neighbouring TSOs and the other TSOs in that synchronous relevant stakeholders, such as regulatory authorities, DSO,
area. SONI as TSO and Significant Grid Users.

23(2) When designing its restoration plan, each TSO shall take into The System Restoration Plan (SRP) and Power System
account, at least, the following elements: Restoration Plan (PSRP) have been designed to take into
(a) the behaviour and capabilities of load and generation; account the operational security limits set out in accordance
(b) the specific needs of the high priority significant grid users with Article 25 of Regulation (EU) 2017/14858.
listed pursuant to paragraph (4);
and In conjunction with Article 23(2) of NCER, the behaviour and
(c) the characteristics of its network and of the underlying capabilities of load and generation is outlined within the
DSOs networks. following sections of this document 3.3, 3.4.1 and 3.4.3.

No high priority SGUs have been identified as part of the

SRP.

The characteristics of the network and the underlying DSO

network are considered when identifying restoration paths
and covered in section 3.3 of the SRP.

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 9
Article Subsection Requirement Relevant Documentation
23(3) The restoration plan shall contain at least the following The PSRP and SRP comply with article 23(3); the condition
provisions: for which the restoration plan is activated is contained in
(a) the conditions under which the restoration plan is section 3.3 of the SRP taking into account the system states
activated, as provided for in Article 25; as defined within SOGL.
(b) restoration plan instructions to be issued by the TSO; and
(c) measures subject to real-time consultation or Details of activation of the PSRP are provided in section 3.3.
coordination with identified parties.
Following activations of the PSRP a blackout signal is sent
which automatically triggers communications and procedures
to be implemented by the TSO, Black Start Units (in
accordance with EirGrid Grid Code OC.4.7.1.1) and the DSO
are outlined in 3.3 of this document.

The PSRP contains, step by step instructions, detailing the

applicable measures to be applied in real time by different
parties. These measures are implemented in close
coordination with the DSO or neighbouring TSOs as required.
For the purpose of top-down restoration close real-time
coordination with SONI TSO (for restoration from NI) will be
required. For top-down restoration from GB the TSO will
consult NGESO in real time as per the Interconnector
Operating Protocol that exists between these parties.

23(4) In particular, the restoration plan shall include the following The SRP and PSRP, comply with the requirements of 23(4),
elements:
Black Start Station specific procedures and DSO
(a) a list of the measures to be implemented by the TSO on transmissions station specific procedures detail the list of
its installations; measures to be carried out during a blackout in close

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 10
Article Subsection Requirement Relevant Documentation
(b) a list of the measures to be implemented by DSOs and of coordination with the TSO. A high level summary of these
the DSOs responsible for implementing those measures on activities are included in 3.3. For security and confidentiality
their installations; reasons these procedures are not included as part of the
(c) a list of the SGUs responsible for implementing on their SRP.
installations the measures that result from mandatory
requirements set out in Regulations (EU) 2016/631, (EU) The details of the Black Start Units are included in 3.1 and in
2016/1388 and (EU) 2016/1447 or from national legislation Figure 1 also. These are procured as an ancillary service
and a list of the measures to be implemented by those SGUs; under SI 445/2000 Part 3 8(1) (a), (b) and stated under Grid
(d) the list of high priority significant grid users and the terms Code section OC.4.7.3.2.
and conditions for their disconnection and re-energisation;
(e) a list of substations which are essential for its restoration In addition to Black Start Units the requirements for generator
plan procedures; units to trip to house load following loss of external supply are
(f) the number of power sources in the TSO's control area detailed under Grid Code CC.7.3.2.3
necessary to re-energise its system with bottom-up re-
energisation strategy having black start capability, quick re- No high priority SGUs have been identified as part of the
synchronisation capability (through houseload operation) and SRP.
island operation capability; and
(g) the implementation deadlines for each listed measure. The PSRP identifies and lists the substations classified as
priority for restoration purposes that are automatically staffed
by the DSO and the target times for staffing these stations.
High level details are included in 3.3 but for security reasons
they are not individually listed in the SRP.

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 11
Article Subsection Requirement Relevant Documentation
23(5) The restoration plan shall include at least the following The re-energisation procedure; in terms of power system
technical and organisational measures specified in Chapter restoration and allowing for the provision for the restoration
III: plan is within grid code under section OC.9.5.1.
(a) re-energisation procedure, in accordance with Section 2;
(b) frequency management procedure, in accordance with An overview of re-energisation is provided within section 3.4
Section 3; and of the SRP. In conjunction with frequency management within
(c) resynchronisation procedure, in accordance with Section section 3.5 and re-synchronisation within section 3.6.
4.

23(6) The measures contained in the restoration plan shall comply The System Restoration Plan has been designed to comply
with the following principles: with the requirements of 23(6),
(a) their impact on system users shall be minimal; 
(b) they shall be economically efficient;  their impact on system users shall be minimal
(c) only those measures that are necessary shall be  they shall be economical
activated; and  only measures that are necessary shall be activated
(d) they shall not lead the interconnected transmission  they shall not cause neighbouring TSOs to enter
systems into emergency state or blackout state emergency or blackout state

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 12
3. Public Consultation
EirGrid held a consultation on our proposed Design of the System Restoration Plan for
Ireland in accordance with the requirements of Articles 23 and 4(5) of the Commission
Regulation (EU) 2017/2196 establishing a network code on electricity emergency and
restoration of the Commission Regulation (EU). This consultation opened on 8 July 2020
for an extended period of 6 weeks until 21 August 2020. It was available to download on
the EirGridGroup and ESBN websites and was discussed at the All Island Forum on 12
August 2020.

3.1. Summary of Responses

EirGrid (TSO) and ESBN (DSO) received no submissions on the consultations.

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 13
4. Design of the System Restoration Plan
In accordance with the various provisions of Article 23 of NCER, the PSRP details a plan
of action to restore the power system after a power system blackout has occurred.
The PSRP is to be used by NCC operators who are certified in accordance with SOGL,
and familiar with, power system restoration procedures. In parallel with this plan there
are individual Black Start Station and transmission station specific procedures to be
followed by the relevant personnel following notification by NCC that the system is in
blackout. The purpose of this document, the System Restoration Plan is to provide an
overview of how the PSRP is designed, activated and implemented.

4.1. Introduction
The majority of generators on the Irish power system require external power supply to
start-up and supply energy to the power system. The TSO has contracts in place with a
number of Black Start Units that have the ability to start up without an external power
supply. The providers include a diversity of fuel types, such as hydro generators,
pumped storage, gas turbines, and an interconnector.

During a blackout, the power system is divided in to four smaller systems referred to as
the North, East, South and West subsystems. Each subsystem has at least one Black
Start Unit. Once each subsystem has supply restored to enough customers to allow
multiple generators operate stably, those subsystems are joined together to form a
single system and restoration continues. Synchronising facilities are available at various
locations on the transmission system for this purpose.

There are a total of twenty Black Start Units (incorporating units for top-down and
bottom-up restoration) located across seven Black Start Stations, as shown in Figure 1.
Ancillary Service Agreements are in place with each of these Black Start Stations to
provide this service. Operational and testing requirements for Black Start Stations are
detailed in EirGrid Grid Code OC 4.7 and OC.10.5.7 respectively. Based on the location
of the current Black Start Stations, subsystems for restoration have been identified and
incorporated in to the PSRP. If the number or locations of these Black Start Stations
were to change then the subsystems would be reviewed to ensure restoration to all parts
of the power system could be achieved. The PSRP would then be updated to reflect the
characteristics of the network. They receive payments for every half hour they are
available to black start. Payments for black start services are reviewed annually and
subject to the approval of the Regulatory Authority. One or more Black Start Units in
each Black Start Station is tested annually.

The Network Code on Emergency Restoration distinguishes between top-down and

bottom-up re-energisation strategies (Article 26). Top-down refers to re-energisation
with assistance from a neighbouring TSO, and in the case of Ireland, this would mean
using EWIC’s blackstart capability, or getting supply from Northern Ireland if those
systems are not also in a blackout state. Bottom-up re-energisation details a scenario

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 14
using a black start unit such as a hydro or diesel unit to energise the system. There are
nineteen providers available for use in a bottom-up re-energisation. It is expected that to
restore the system back to normal state in an efficient manner, that a combination of top-
down and bottom-up re-energisation strategies would be used in the event of a blackout
in Ireland.

The sections of this document that follow give a high-level summary of the restoration
process. For security reasons, some specifics of the PSRP are not included in this
document.

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 15
 Figure 1- Simplified overview of Black Start Stations and Subsystem Borders

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 16
4.2. Assumptions of the System Restoration Plan

The power system failure that is addressed in this SRP is a total power system failure,
with the following assumptions:

1. A total blackout of the power system has occurred

2. There is no damage to generation plant or significant damage to transmission
equipment
3. Black Start Stations remain fully operational
4. Sufficient water is available in all hydro and pumped storage stations in
order to energise a restoration path
5. No major loss of telecommunications facilities (voice/data) has occurred
6. No major loss of NCC computing facilities (hardware/software) has occurred

The above assumptions are made when designing the PSRP, however additional details
and alternative options are presented to allow the restoration plan reflect the reality of
the blackout scenario. If any of these scenarios are encountered restoration activities will
continue but a delay to restoring the power system to normal state may take longer than
anticipated. The following scenarios are provided to expand on the above assumptions:

In accordance with Grid Code CC.7.3.2.3 if a generator has tripped to house load or a
small stable island remains, this may be incorporated in to a restoration path. However,
generators that have switched to house load may not be able to remain in that state for
long period of time, hence black starting stations remains a priority.

As part of the TSO’s generator outage management process overlapping outages of

Black Start Units are minimised, as far as possible to ensure there is always sufficient
units available. The PSRP includes detailed technical information and alternative
restoration paths that can be used to adapt to scenarios where there is a partial system
failure and/or plant) is unavailable. The PSRP sets out guidelines and procedures, and
provides tested and proven restoration examples.

In the event of a blackout the PSRP has been designed so that one or two units are
black started in each of the four subsystems. As there are twenty Black Start Units
contracted by the TSO it is expected that sufficient units will be available. Once a unit
has been black started it can energise and synchronise additional units in normal
operation as the restoration path develops. The four separate subsystems will be
restored in parallel to speed up overall system restoration.

NCC Control Engineers are certified in accordance with the requirements of SOGL
including restoration activities. In addition to this certification, every two years NCC
partake in hypothetical blackout scenarios where they manage and respond to a
blackout in a simulated environment. Following an update of the PSRP training is
provided to all NCC Control Engineers and other staff who have a role during the
blackout and restoration states.

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 17
The Black Start Units include a diversity of fuel types, including hydro generators,
pumped storage, gas turbines, and an interconnector so the success of the restoration is
not completely dependent on water levels. Arrangements are in place with pumped
storage and designated hydro units to ensure sufficient water levels are maintained year
round for black start.

As far as possible, all communications should be directed through the operational

telephone system OPTEL, which is owned by the DSO and used by the TSO for voice
communication with designated users. This communication system is independent of
the public telephone system. It is assumed that the mobile network will survive the initial
immediate onset of a blackout. Hence, when the blackout alert state is issued a text
message is also sent to key personnel who have standing instructions to attend their
place of work on receipt of such a text. A complete failure of all communication systems
including OPTEL is highly unlikely but is still a potential risk. If this method of
communication is the only method available the restoration time will be significantly
slower.

If there is a significant loss of NCC computing facilities at the time of the blackout then
restoration activities can be carried out from the TSO’s back up control centre. Oncea
blackout alert is issued the System Manager will decide if the back up control centre
needs to be staffed and operations will be transferred from the primary control centre. If
there is a failure of software at both locations then there is a number of 24/7 on call
support arrangements available to the TSO to resolve these issues.

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 18
4.3. Activation of the Restoration Plan
The system is considered to be in blackout state if any of the following conditions has
occurred:

1. Loss of more than 50% of demand load

2. Loss of voltage across the transmission system for 3 mins

3. The Power System Restoration Plan has been activated

Following the system entering a blackout state the first priority is to establish the extent
of the blackout on the system. This involves determining the status of the Northern
Ireland system and if sufficient capacity is available for top down restoration. If parts of
the system are not blacked out then identify suitable locations for resynchronisation.

Once it has been established that the system is in blackout, TSO’s National Control
Centre (NCC) issues a blackout alert in accordance with Article 25(1) of NCER. This
notifies all centrally dispatched units, DSO, relevant TSO staff and key external
stakeholders. The ENTSO-E Awareness System (EAS) is also updated which notifies
other European TSOs that synchronous area of Ireland is in blackout. Once a plan has
been formulated and restoration has commenced the EAS state is updated to restoration.

The primary objective of the PSRP is to achieve restoration of supply to all consumers
as quickly and as safely as possible with minimum adverse consequences.
The following objectives also apply:

 Prevent any plant damage

 Conserve station batteries and compressed air supplies whilst in islanded
operation
 Restore supply as soon as possible to conventional generation stations
 Restore supply as soon as possible to customers or locations where loss of
power involves significant risk as identified by DSO via their National Distribution
Control Centre (NDCC)

The PSRP sets out guidelines and procedures, and provides tested and proven
restoration examples. The PSRP does not supersede standing operating instructions or
safety rules regarding operation of the transmission system.

After an alert has been issued of the blackout state, the following times are targets at
which to aim to restore power to the 400 kV, 220 kV and 110 kV transmission network:

 A specific plan of action formulated by the NCC within 30 minutes of

establishment of the nature and the extent of the blackout.
 Stable operation of the Black Start Units within 1 hour of blackout alert issuance
 External supply to primary target generation stations as specified in the PSRP
within 2 hours of plan formulation.
 Load restored to subsystems within 4 hours of plan formation.
 Re-synchronisation of separate subsystems within 6 hours of plan formulation

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 19
  Restoration of continuous supply to all remaining 400 kV, 220 kV, and 110 kV
transmission stations within 12 hours of plan formulation

In accordance with Article 25(3) Black Start Stations implement their own procedures
immediately following notification from TSO that the system is in a blackout state,
including;

 Securing all equipment to ensure the units are in a state of readiness for black
start as called by the TSO
 Ensuring all Black Start Stations that are operated via remote control from
another station are to be staffed immediately

The primary purpose of black starting these stations is to extend supply to target
generation stations that cannot start without an external supply. All procedures are
implemented in close coordination with the TSO to establish the time before these
stations will be able to run up and energise the transmission system. Each Black Start
Station has its own individual set of procedures that are confidential to the TSO and
those stations.

Transmission stations on the preferred restoration paths from Black Start Stations to
primary target generation stations that require DSO operators on site following a
blackout alert are designated as priority stations. Upon receipt of a blackout alert the
DSOs National Distribution Control Centre (NDCC) will dispatch operators without further
instruction from the NCC. Priority 1 transmission stations have a target time to be staffed
by the DSO within 30 minutes of a blackout alert being issued, and Priority 2
transmission stations have a target time of 60 minutes. Priority 3 Stations are not
automatically staffed. These stations have alert procedures and may be staffed as
restoration progresses, but will only be staffed following a request from NCC to NDCC.
Upon arrival in a priority station the operator will acknowledge the alert signal and follow
the blackout procedures for that priority station.

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 20
 Blackout Occurs

1. Establish System Status

Total or partial blackout

t0 (Blackout alert
2. Communication
Issued)
Contact all parties who will contribute to system restoration (issue
blackout alert)
Update ENTSO-E Awareness System

3. Develop Plan of Action

Prioritise Subsystems / Generators for bottom up restoration
Decide how to use EWIC / supply from SONI

t1 (Plan of action developed)

Target: t0 + 30 minutes
4. Identify Restoration Paths
Write switching plans
Additional transmission station staffing, as needed

Black start stations stable

5. Commence Subsystem Restoration
Target: t0 + 1 hour
Update ENTSO-E Awareness System
Target stations energised
Energise path to target stations
Target: t1 + 2 hours
Restore load at bulk supply points
Initial load restored
Target: t1 + 4 hours
6. Resynchronise Subsystems
Extend paths to controlled synchronisation points Subsystems synchronised

Restore supply to all transmission stations Target: t1 + 6 hours

All transmission stations

energised
Target: t1 + 12 hours
Resume Normal Operation

Figure 2 – High Level Timelines for Restoration

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 21
4.4. Re-energisation Procedure

At the initial stage of restoration, the NCC establishes the extent of the blackout, that is,
whether it is total or partial. The NCC also establishes the status of the transmission
system in Northern Ireland. This will determine if a top-down or bottom-up re-
energisation strategy is to be employed. If there is a partial blackout the NCC should
then establish the existence of island within in each subsystem.

The Network Code on Emergency Restoration distinguishes between top-down and
bottom-up re-energisation strategies. Top-down refers to re-energisation with assistance
from a neighbouring TSO, and in the case of Ireland, this would mean using EWIC’s
blackstart capability, or getting supply from Northern Ireland if those systems are not
also in a blackout state. Bottom-up re-energisation details a scenario using a hydro or
diesel unit to start larger conventional machines and energise the system. It is expected
that a combination of top-down and bottom-up re-energisation strategies would be used
in the event of a blackout in Ireland in accordance with Article 26 of EU NCER.

A high level plan for restoration of each subsystem should be developed within thirty
minutes of the blackout alert being issued. This plan should identify the unit(s) to be
black started and the generators being targeted for restoration of supplies in each
subsystem.

The following should be considered when developing the plan:

 The possibility of combining top-down (EWIC, SONI) and bottom-up (Black Start
Units) re-energisation
 The availability of Black Start and non-Black Start target generators
 The expected duration and risks associated with each path
 The condition of the transmission system
 Priority loads for restoration (in conjunction with DSO)

When building the restoration path from the Black Start Station to the target generator,
either soft or sequential energisation is employed. Soft energisation is preferable, as the
de-energised transmission path can be built in parallel to the black start generator
starting up. The generator can then energise the path at a reduced voltage. However,
if there is no soft energisation available, sequential energisation is recommended. This
method requires the black start generator to start up before the transmission path is built,
and then the path is sequentially built energising one transmission station at a time.

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 22
 3.4.1 Load Restoration and Frequency Management

The TSO and DSO will closely coordinate all load restoration activities. Initial load
restoration should be carried out in the smallest steps possible to minimise system
frequency and voltage deviations for each subsystem. System or local frequency should
be at least 50.0 Hz (preferably higher) before restoring any load. One generator in each
subsystem should control the frequency. The other generators on the subsystem should
operate with a load set point as dispatched by NCC and in normal droop governor
control mode, unless otherwise instructed.

Load should be restored initially in those parts of the system that are adjacent to
generation sources. Following a request from TSO to restore load the DSO NDCC will
sanity check that the load is realisable before reconnection. As load restoration
progresses and the subsystems are stable it will be necessary to expand the restoration
paths to other parts of the system. Maintaining stability of the restored subsystems takes
precedence but to the extent that it is possible to do so, account may also be taken of
Significant Grid Users and priority loads following discussions between TSO and DSO.
Once a number of generators have synchronised, load restoration should be in steps
appropriate to the size of the subsystem.

If top-down restoration via EWIC is being used EWIC will be started in islanded mode.
The TSO will request block loads of up to 50 MW from NGESO up to the maximum
capacity of the link. The communications and procedures to follow in the event of a
blackout are set out in the Interconnector Operating Protocol that exists between EirGrid
TSO, NGESO and the Interconnector Owner.

3.4.2 Voltage Control during Subsystem Restoration

The system should be re-energised at as low a voltage as possible, i.e. roughly 0.9 per
unit, in order to reduce the Mvar generation of unloaded transmission feeders. The target
voltages on the 220 kV and 110 kV systems are 205 kV (or lower) and 100 kV (or lower)
respectively. When energising transformers, the tap position should be selected to
minimise inrush current and associated voltage dip. Load restoration should be suitably
interspersed with feeder restoration to limit the Mvar absorption of the generators to an
appropriate value.

3.4.3 Synchronising Generators

A sufficient number of generators should be started to ensure that units are not operating
at full output. A range of partly loaded generators rather than a few heavily loaded
generators provide the following advantages:

 Greater flexibility

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 23
  Increased load response
 Mvar absorption capability and consequently better control over the voltage of the
developing system
 Additional MW and Mvar spinning reserve
 Increased short circuit levels and inertia

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 24
4.5. Frequency Management

The PSRP outlines the procedures for frequency management during restoration state in
accordance with Articles 28-31.Section 3.4.1 above outlines the principles of frequency
management when EirGrid is developing a number of subsystems within its area (as per
Article 28(2)).

In accordance with Article 6(b) EirGrid works closely with SONI, the TSO in Northern
Ireland and coordinates as restoration develops on the power systems. EirGrid and
SONI operate as a single synchronous area when both TSOs are operating within
normal state. As restoration develops on the EirGrid system and it is suitable to
resynchronise with SONI, EirGrid TSO is the predetermined frequency leader in
accordance with Article 29(4). EirGrid will act as the frequency leader until such time as
the synchronous area has been completely resynchronised and the system frequency is
within standard frequency range (as per Article 29 6(b)). SONI TSO will support the
frequency leader in accordance with Article 30(3). The target frequency for restoration
(top-down and bottom-up re-energisation strategies) will be 50 Hz in the synchronous
area.

EirGrid and SONI operate as a single operational area with responsibility for dispatch of
generators alternating between the two TSOs on a regular basis. As frequency leader
EirGrid can consider the amount of available operating reserves and interconnector
capacity available for the synchronous area.

One generator in the synchronous area will act as the load-frequency controller (the
swing generator, operating in isochronous speed control mode). The other generators in
the synchronous area operate with a load set point as dispatched by NCC and in normal
droop governor control mode, unless otherwise instructed by the NCC. The load-
frequency controller will be determined in real time based on generator availability and in
coordination with SONI. Variable sources of generation e.g. wind farms, should remain
disconnected from the system until the blackout alert is cancelled to avoid any frequency
deviations.

Prior to each increment of load restoration, ensure that the load-frequency controller is
operating near mid operating range and that the proposed increment of load does not
exceed the remaining available capacity on that unit. As an increment of load is restored,
the load-frequency controller will increase output to meet the additional load and return
the system frequency to 50 Hz. Following this, the load set points of the other generators
in the synchronous area should be increased (dispatched up) to take up the load
increment, returning the load-frequency controller to mid operating range.

Automatic Frequency Restoration (AFR) schemes automatically reconnect distribution

load on the system when the system frequency has recovered sufficiently. AFR schemes
should be disabled during restoration as per Article 30(1).. The DSO blackout
procedures for designated stations include steps to switch these schemes off. Where a

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 25
scheme cannot be switched off EirGrid will coordinate with the DSO to ensure mitigating
steps are in place to prevent automatic reconnection of load.

4.6. Resynchronisation – System restoration back to Normal

State
The PSRP outlines the procedures for resynchronisation in accordance with Articles 32-
34.

EirGrid will act as the resynchronisation leader (Article 33(2)) during the restoration state.
A designated substation has been identified with appropriate substation equipment for a
controlled resynchronisation. EirGrid has real time measurements of frequency, voltage
and phase angle at the resynchronisation point and the ability to control these
measurements. EirGrid will act as resynchronisation leader until the two synchronous
areas have been resynchronised.

Controlled synchronisation schemes are used to prevent an operator from crash-

synchronising the two systems. Controlled synchronisation is used for joining two
separate electrical systems together. These schemes are operated locally in the
transmission station.

The following limits are applied by the resynchronisation leader during controlled
synchronisation:

 Voltage difference (typically ± 2-5%)

 Slip (frequency); (standard setting is ± 0.1% = 50 mHz)

 Phase angle difference; (setting for control sync is ± 5°, setting for Check sync
usually 10° - 20°)

4.7. Resume Normal Operation

While every effort must be made to return the system to normal state as soon as
possible following the disturbance, stability and correct operating practices must be
observed at all times. In principle, the NCC should establish N-1 security for the
transmission system as early as possible. It is particularly important to ensure that plant
is operated within normal tolerances. As the system is rebuilt the system voltage can be
returned to the normal operating range. All standard sectionalising arrangements should
be re-established and normal protection settings re-applied including reclosing,
Automatic Frequency Restoration and Special Protection Schemes.

Non-centrally dispatched units (such as wind farms) should only be restored when
frequency and voltage implications can be dealt with or otherwise as considered
beneficial to the restoration requirements.

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 26
Once the restoration is deemed to be complete the blackout alert is cancelled notifying
all parties involved in restoration. The ENTSO-E Awareness System is also updated to
reflect the return to normal state.

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 27
5. System Restoration Plan Implementation

Under Article 24 of EU NCER the implementation date of the restoration plan is stated.
The article requires that by 18th of December 2018 EirGrid shall implement the measures
of the system restoration plan and notify applicable parties who are within the scope of
NCER.

In December 2018 EirGrid submitted a proposed SRP to the CRU; this proposal was
based on a minimal disruption to current business practices and procedures. EirGrid
considered it would be sufficient to notify NCER applicable parties of the obligations they
have to meet; since submission and publication of these proposal documents the CRU
have requested amendments regarding clarity on affected parties and measures they
have to meet. As detailed within this document these have been addressed in this
proposal. By already complying with their bilateral agreements, connection agreements
and grid code the measures required under NCER have been fulfilled.

The system restoration plan will be fully implemented and entered into force once this
document has been approved by the regulating authority.

6. Plan Review

Article 51 of NCER requires that EirGrid is to review the measures of the SRP using
computer simulation tests to determine the effectiveness of the plan every five years.
Such testing procedures are in place within EirGrid’s internal processes and procedures,
which cover from article 51(a) - (d) every two years:
- The energising restoration path from restoration service providers with black start
- The supply of power generating modules main auxiliaries;
- The demand reconnection process; and
- The process for resynchronisation of networks in island operation.

7. Next Steps
This concludes EirGrid’s submission to the Commission for the Regulation of Utilities of
the proposal for design of the system restoration plan for Ireland in accordance with
Articles 23 and 4(5) of the Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/2196 establishing a
network code on electricity emergency and restoration of the Commission Regulation
(EU).

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 28
Definitions
Relevant definitions as per Network Code on Emergency and Restoration

‘restoration service provider’ means a legal entity with a legal or contractual obligation to
provide a service contributing to one or several measures of the restoration plan;

‘high priority significant grid user’ means the significant grid user for which special
conditions apply for disconnection and re-energisation;

‘restoration plan’ means all technical and organisational measures necessary for the
restoration of the system back to normal state;

‘re-energisation’ means reconnecting generation and load to energise the parts of the
system that have been disconnected;

‘top-down re-energisation strategy’ means a strategy that requires the assistance of

other TSOs to re-energise parts of the system of a TSO;

‘bottom-up re-energisation strategy’ means a strategy where part of the system of a TSO
can be re-energised without the assistance from other TSOs;

‘resynchronisation’ means synchronising and connecting again two synchronised regions

at the resynchronisation point;

‘resynchronisation point’ means the device used to connect two synchronised regions,
usually a circuit breaker.

Emergency and Restoration – SRP for Ireland

Page 29