This LiveWire Spotlight examines FERC Order 808 approving two COM standards governing the interpersonal communications capabilities and protocols used between operating entities. The Commission has found that the updated standards will enhance BPS reliability by establishing the informational exchange framework utilized by front line personnel during normal operations and emergencies.
NERC Standard COM-001-2 will take effect in the U.S. on October 1, 2015. By that date, operations entities must have compliant interpersonal communications in place. COM-002-4’s protocol requirements will become mandatory 9 months later.