NPRR1319  Clarification to Seasonal Mothball Evaluation Process

This Nodal Protocol Revision Request (NPRR) clarifies ERCOT’s next steps after a Generation Resource proposal to be placed on seasonal mothball status has been evaluated. The current language in some cases requires ERCOT to prepare and post a Must-Run Alternative (MRA) “Request for Proposal” (RFP). Given that a request to seasonally mothball a Resource can be submitted as little as 90 days before the season begins, if ERCOT studies indicate a reliability concern of the seasonal mothball request, in most cases there is not enough time to effectively go through the MRA process and receive operational alternatives in a timely manner. This NPRR clarifies that ERCOT may, but is not required to, go through the MRA RFP process when it receives notice to place a unit on seasonal mothball status.