North Eastern Regional Power Committee

MINUTES OF THE 83rd OPERATION COORDINATION SUB-COMMITTEE MEETING OF NERPC

Date Time : 11/03/2013 (Monday) : 10:30 hrs

Venue : The Classic Hotel, Imphal, Manipur. The List of Participants in the 83rd OCC Meeting is attached at Annexure I The meeting was started with welcome address by Shri D. Chattopadhyay, General Manager (O&M), NHPC. He stated that NHPC is honored to host the OCC meeting of NERPC in Imphal as per roster. He mentioned about the importance of OCC meeting where issues relating to system operation and overall development of the region is being discussed. He requested all the participants to actively participate in the discussion for fruitful outcome of the meeting. He wished all the participants a comfortable stay in Imphal and then requested Member Secretary I/C to proceed with the meeting. Shri S. K. Ray Mohapatra, Member Secretary I/C, NERPC welcomed the participants and thanked NHPC for hosting the meeting and for making the excellent arrangement for comfortable stay of delegates. He informed the house that after grid disturbance on 30th and 31st July, 2012, efforts are being made at different levels to implement various recommendations of the enquiry committee to avoid re-occurance of such incidences in future and to maintain grid discipline for smooth and safe operation of the grid. Further, he stated that Protection Audit has been completed in February, 2013, the report highlighting the deficiencies in NER system along with recommendations and implementation plan is likely to be submitted by March 2013. He also informed that due to non-availability of generation from the GBPP of OTPC at Pallatana, the region is facing acute shortage of power during this lean hydro period although problem of evacuation of power from the GBPP has been solved after commissioning of 400KV Silchar Byrnihat line in February, 2013. He wished that the technical problem with the machine will be resolved soon and the generation from the OTPC plant will be resumed at the

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal earliest for the benefit of the region. He requested constituents to co-operate with NERLDC in real time operation for safe and secure operation of the grid. Thereafter, Member Secretary I/C requested Shri B. Lyngkhoi, SE(O), NERPC to take up the agenda items for discussion.

A.

CONFIRMATION

OF

MINUTES

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES OF 82nd MEETING OF OPERATION SUBCOMMITTEE OF NERPC. The minutes of 82nd meeting of Operation Sub-committee held on 7th February, 2013 at Shillong were circulated vide letter No. NERPC/OP/OCC/2013/2880-907 dated 15th February, 2013. NEEPCO has requested for correction in the recording of minutes of 82nd OCC meeting in respect of Item D.9 regarding RGMO installation in NEEPCO generating stations. The status of Implementation of RGMO at NEEPCO Hydro Power Plants as follows (AS ON 15.01.2013) on Item D.9 may be noted as below: The type of Governor is G40. Existing EHG of the units are not compatible for incorporating RGMO. Order for new microprocessor based EHG incorporating restricted mode operation has already Ranganadi HEP 3X135 MW been placed with the OEM, M/s BHEL on 30/03/2012.

Considering the lead time for delivery and transportation time, it is expected that the system can be made operational in all units by March, 2014 after erection/commissioning during lean hydro season of 2013-14. The type of Governor is G40. Existing EHG of the units are not compatible for incorporating RGMO. Order for new microprocessor based EHG incorporating restricted mode operation has already

Doyang HEP-3X25 MW

been

placed with

the

OEM,

M/s

BHEL

on

10/10/2012.

Considering the delivery schedule of 8 months from date of order & programming erection schedule during lean hydro season, it is expected that the system can be made operational by March2014.

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal The type of Governor is G40 in all the units of KHEP. Existing Governors of the power Stations are not compatible for

incorporation of RGMO. Kopili 4X50 MW For 50 MW Unit-I & II of the Kopili Power Station, new Governor system has been placed with OEM along with R&M package in March2011. Equipments received at site recently. Erection /commissioning will be carried out during R&M works as scheduled in the lean hydro season of 2013-14. Expected date of commissioning of the system is by March2014.

For 50 MW Kopili Unit-III, Unit-IV & Khandong 2X25 MW units, as the existing governing system are not compatible for RGMO Khandong 2X25 MW operation; The matter has been taken up with BHEL, who is the OEM for the system. On receipt of financial offer from BHEL, order shall be processed for the system. It is expected that the system can be commissioned by March2014. The existing governor of 25 MW Stage-II PH is microprocessor based. However, for RGMO, the necessary software has to be Kopili Stg-II 1x25 MW loaded in the system. Offer from OEM already received and under process for placement of order. Expected date of commissioning is by March2013.

In place of On RHEP- RGMO installed; Khandong/Kopili- Extension till March, 2014 has been requested from CERC. With the above corrections, the minutes of 82nd OCC meeting was confirmed.

SE (O), NERPC then requested NERLDC to give the presentation on 1) ATC/ TTC Calculation 2) Special Protection Scheme of Pallatana evacuation 3) The grid performance of NER during the month of February, 2013. The presentations are enclosed at Annexure-A.

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal

ITEMS

FOR

DISCUSSION

B.1.

OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE AND GRID DISCIPLINE DURING FEB 2013

As per the data made available by NERLDC, the grid performance parameters for February, 2013 are given below: i) Average frequency during February, 2013 was 50.09 Hz as compared to 50.01 Hz in January, 2013. ii) Minimum frequency in February, 2013 was 49.40 Hz (22.02.13 at 06:50 hrs) as compared to 49.30 Hz Hz recorded in the previous month. iii) Maximum frequency was 50.71 Hz (16.02.13 at 23:59 hrs) as compared to 50.78 Hz recorded in January, 2013. iv) System frequency remained within permissible range of 49.7 Hz to 50.2 Hz for 80.00 % of the time, below 49.7 Hz for 4.89 % and above 50.2 Hz for 18.68 % of the time as compared to 83.12 %, 5.57 % and 11.31 % respectively in the previous month. v) Regional peak demand in February, 2013 was 1934 MW as compared to 1943 MW in January, 2013, a decrease of 0.46 % over the previous month. vi) Regional peak availability was 1845 MW as compared to 1815 MW in previous month, an increase of 1.65 % over the previous month. vii) Energy requirement was 876.43 MUs in February, 2013 compared to 991.54 MUs in January, 2013, a decrease of 11.62 % over the previous month. viii) Regional energy availability was 818.37 MUs compared to 924.82 MUs in the previous month, a decrease of 11.51% over the previous month. ix) Rise in demand met was recorded in Tripura (8.59%), Meghalaya (6.45%) & Ar. Pradesh (3.81%) over the previous month. x) Drop in demand met was recorded in Nagaland (8.42%), Assam (5.69%), Manipur (5.08%) & Mizoram (4.29%) over the previous month viz. January, 2013. xi) Over Voltage observed at Misa S/S (422kV). xii) No over Voltages were observed at 220kV & 132 kV S/S. xiii) No under Voltages were observed at 400 kV S/S, 220 kV S/S & 132kV S/S.

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal xiv) Regional Generation & Inter-regional Exchanges during the month of February, 2013 compared to January, 2013 are given below:

SN

Parameter

February, 2013

January, 2013 (in MU) 687.508 419.115 268.393 6.02 268.36 262.34

REGIONAL GENERATION & INTER REGIONAL EXCHANGES

1 2

Total Generation in NER (Gross) Total Central Sector Generation (Gross) Total State Sector Generation (Gross) Inter-Regional Energy Exchanges (a) NER - ER (b) ER - NER (c) Net Import

552.454 314.987 237.467 4.22 283.22 279.00

The Summary of Category A, B, C Messages issued by NERLDC for the constituents of NER for the Month of January, 2013 is given as below:

C A State (<49.8 Hz) B (<49.7 Hz) (<49.7 Hz Persistent Overdrawal) Jan13

Ar. Pradesh

Total

Feb13 13 10 11 7 11 13 10

Jan13 7 0 6 4 6 7 5

Feb13 2 0 1 1 1 2 2

Jan13 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Feb13 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Jan13 60 28 51 31 52 59 40

Feb13 15 10 12 8 12 15 12

53 28 45 27 46 52 35

Assam Manipur Meghalaya Mizoram Nagaland Tripura

The Sub-committee noted as above.

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal

FOLLOW UP ACTION

C.1

Synchronization of Pallatana Module -I During 79th OCC meeting, AGM, NERLDC informed that OTPC had synchronized their machine and generated around 30 MW during Durga Puja which was of great help to NER grid during puja. During 79th OCC meeting, GM, OTPC had informed that to ensure capability of plant and various equipment, auxiliaries & ancillaries associated with Block-1 / Unit-1 of Pallatana Generating station, trial operation is required with increase of loads in steps as per schedule and after unit stabilization run, machine needs to be run at full / base load and the continuous run of unit for minimum period of 72 hours is required for declaration of COD. SE(Com) informed that for declaration of COD, the running of machine continuously for 72 Hrs is not a mandatory requirement. But as per PPA of OTPC with the constituent states of NER, each block/unit is to operate seventy two (72) consecutive hours at or above 95% of the contracted capacity. OTPC had informed that after running of Block-1

continuously for 72hrs. at full / base load, the machine could be run at reduced load for fifteen (15) days. The running of Unit at full / base load is required to demonstrate gross generation, heat rate, auxiliary consumption, and NOX level including capability & reliability of various equipment, auxiliaries, ancillaries and associated control and protection system.

AGM, NERLDC stated that all tests required for commissioning of Pallatana U#1 will be facilitated by NERLDC as agreed in previous OCC meetings but the commercial issues with the stake holders i.e. NEEPCO/NHPC/Tripura have to be settled by OTPC. POWERGRID informed that 400 kV Silchar- Pallatana-II tripped number of times on 07/11/12 on overvoltage due to some problem at OTPC end, the same needs to be checked. OTPC informed that the investigation is going on and it will be rectified soon.

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal

NERLDC also informed that as per the previous decision in OCC meeting all constituents had agreed for 72 hours of continuous run of Palltana U#1 at full load (i.e. 300 MW). For evacuation of full generation of Pallatana U#1, Tripura, Assam, NEEPCo and NHPC have to back down their generation. Therefore, if OTPC requires continuous load more than 72 hours (3 days), all constituents should agree for such transaction and the commercial issues also needs to be resolved beforehand.

NERPC had given a presentation on the commercial implication of backing down of generation by NHPC, NEEPCO, Tripura, and Mizoram due to injection of generation by Unit-1 of Pallatana taking into account the previous load flow study on case to case basis. Assam stated that backing down of generation may be allowed, but frequent ramping up/down of generation is not desirable as it may lead to cascading effect resulting in a grid disturbance. Further they stated that the generation status at Pallatana should be integrated with the SCADA system of all SLDCs. Tripura also stated that the commercial implication should be settled beforehand. NEEPCO also informed that for running of Unit-1 for more than 72 hours, prior approval from their management would be required. NEEPCO requested for steady injection of power for the whole day to manage their gas supply. OTPC informed that it is difficult to maintain steady injection of power to the grid during trial operation. OTPC informed that since all constituents are not agreeing for full load generation for 15 days, reduced generation of 250-280MW may be allowed after continuous run of Unit-1 for 72 hrs. at full / base load.

During discussion POWERGRID was requested to inform the committee about the present status of 400kV Silchar Byrnihat line and the 400kV substation at Byrnihat. Committee requested for commissioning of line and substation by the end of November 2012. But POWERGRID informed that it is difficult to commission the GIS substation before December 2012.

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal

In the 79th OCC meeting, after detailed deliberation the committee reiterated its earlier decision to allow continuous run of the Unit-1 for 72 hours at full load. Further OTPC should furnish its schedule at least 48Hrs beforehand to enable all the stake holders to carry out proper planning. However, the commercial matter regarding running of Unit-1 beyond 72 hours at full / reduced load needs to be discussed in commercial committee and NERPC meeting to settle the commercial implications.

During 80th OCC meeting, Committee requested POWERGRID to inform the house about the status of 400kV Silchar Byrnihat line and the 400kV substation at Byrnihat. POWERGRID informed the committee that the stringing work of 400kV Silchar Byrnihat line is under progress and is likely to be completed by January, 2013. Regarding 400kV GIS substation at Byrnihat it was informed that Reactor oil filteration is in progress and one transformer has also reached the site. The precommissioning tests will be completed as early as possible. The commissioning of 400kV GIS cannot be completed before January, 2013 although most of the erection commissioning activities on 220kV side will be completed by December, 2012.

GM (Plant), OTPC informed that synchronization of Unit -1 would be done again on 14.12.12 for further tests and COD and submitted the schedule to NERLDC. The committee deliberated the generation schedule of OTPC Pallatana w.e.f. 14.12.12 and after detail discussion it was decided that:

i)

On 14.12.12 OTPC should synchronize Unit-1 before Peak Hours (i.e. 17:00 Hrs) and the generation should be in the range of 50 to 80 MW so that it will help NER grid during Peak hours and moreover, start-up power should be drawn from the Grid during off-peak hours, which will help the TSECL system. Afterwards the load may be increased gradually.

ii) On 15.12.12 OTPC should plan to generate about 300 MW (for 2 hours) during Peak hours so that such quantum of generation can be easily accommodated. iii) From 15.12.12 to 24.12.12 OTPC should generate around 230 to 250 MW continuously. However, the generation needs to be rescheduled, if required, depending on real time grid conditions and as per the advice of NERLDC.

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal iv) If OTPCs generation would be found to be stable, then generation of 230 to 250 MW can be continued further till 02.01.2013 to support the grid during Christmas and New Year eve. v) From 03.01.2013 onwards, OTPC may plan for generation of 363 MW (full load/base load) continuously for 72 hours in consultation with NERLDC. During 81st OCC meeting, the Sub-committee enquired about the status of commissioning of Unit#2 of GBPP at Palatana from OTPC and also the status of the ATS from POWERGRID. OTPC informed that the commissioning schedule of Pallatana U#2 is May/June, 2013. Further, OTPC requested to facilitate for following schedule of generation. i) Generation of 300 MW for 4-5 hours on 11.01.2013 for DLN testing

ii) Continuous Generation of 250 MW for seven (7) days for trial operation. iii) Generation of 360 MW for three (3) days to meet the requirement of COD. POWERGRID informed that the commissioning schedule of ATS is as follow: a) 400 kV Silchar Byrnihat Transmission line By end of January, 2013 b) 400 kV GIS Byrnihat S/S- By end of January, 2013 c) 400 kV Byrnihat Bongaigaon Transmission line By May/June, 2013.

TSECL and Assam representatives requested NERLDC not to issue ATC violation message as States were overdrawing continuously to match the load requirement with generation from OTPC. They also requested for some action to avoid UI drawl at higher rate as it effects commercially.

After detailed deliberation the committee decided that: i) On 11.01.2013 OTPC will inject 300 MW for five (5) hours during peak hours to perform the DLN testing. ii) Subsequently generation of OTPC will be restricted to 250 MW during peak hours and 150 MW during off-peak hours till 400 kV Byrnihat S/S and 400 kV Silchar Byrnihat line is commissioned. iii) However, in case of any contingency, OTPC will have to back down generation as per advice of NERLDC.

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal During the 82nd OCC meeting, GM (Plant), OTPC informed that DLN tuning in PPM mode has been completed for generating Unit#1 at Palatana. But the DLN tuning in PM mode is yet to be done. For DLN tuning in PM mode, load of about 300MW would be required and after DLN tuning, load of about 250 MW is required continuously for further trial run of the machine. POWERGRID was requested to intimate the status of commissioning transmission system associated with evacuation of power from generating units of OTPC at Pallatana and NTPC at Bongaigaon. POWERGRID informed that the status of transmission system is as below: i) 400 kV Silchar Byrnihat Transmission line By February 15, 2013

ii) 400 kV GIS Byrnihat S/S- Charged on January 5, 2013. iii) 400 kV Byrnihat Bongaigaon Transmission line By June, 2013. NERLDC presented the recent trippings and shut down programme of OTPC generating unit during trail operation. The committee requested OTPC to stabilize their machine as the records of NERLDC shows the machine is not stable and it is tripping during trial operation and shut down is being taken now and then. Since the NER grid may not be able to survive in case of tripping of generating unit of such capacity (363MW) as it may lead to cascade trippings. The machine should be stabilized before going for trial run with full generation. After detailed deliberation the committee has decided as follows: i) The generating Unit#1 of OTPC should be stabilized as tripping of the machine at full load may cause grid disturbance. ii) Because of election in the state of Tripura on February 14, 2013, trail operation of machine with full generation may be deferred till 400 kV SilcharByrnihat line is ready in order to avoid interruption of power supply. iii) The commissioning of 400 kV Silchar-Byrnihat line is expected by

January15, 2013 and trial run of OTPC machine with full generation can be carried out after 15th February, 2013. Deliberation of the Committee POWERGRID informed that the status of transmission system is as below: i) 400 kV Silchar Byrnihat Transmission line Charged on March 26, 2013

ii) 400 kV GIS Byrnihat S/S- Charged on January 5, 2013. iii) 400 kV Byrnihat Bongaigaon Transmission line By June, 2013.

10

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal GM (Plant), OTPC informed that due technical problem with Unit # 1, the generation from the plant has been stopped. The interior shields of Steam Reheating Boiler of Unit#1 are defective causing melting down of the metals and the same needs replacement. Attempt will be made to divert the shields designed for Unit-II to be used for Unit-I so that Unit-I can resume generation by 5th of May 2013.

The committee also informed that since six month period from the commencement of injection of power to the grid will be over in April 2013, injection of firm power into the grid will not be possible by OTPC after April as per CERC norm. OTPC was requested to take up the matter with CERC so that power can be injected into the grid when the machine is ready for generation in May 2013. The Sub-committee noted as above. C.2 Independent third party audit of protection system and self-certification in respect of operationalisation of Under Frequency Relay (UFR) and df/dt relay The Chairperson, CEA vide his D.O letter No. 7/AI/GD/GM/2012/397-407, addressed to Honble Chairperson, NERPC had requested for completion of independent third party audit of protection system and to ensure operationalisation of Under Frequency Relay (UFR) and df/dt relay based automatic load shedding within one month. In response to had above letter NERPC of vide CEA letter & No.

NERPC/OP/OCC/2012/5687-702

circulated

extract

CERC

regulation and some formats, with typical example (which can be downloaded from NERPC website), to help in collecting various information. No. of groups need to be formed to carry out the protection audit. The action plan needs to be discussed so that the work can be completed as early as possible. However, the self-certification (by STUs / CTU) in respect of operationalisation of Under Frequency Relay (UFR) and df/dt relay based automatic load shedding may please be submitted in the prescribed format to NERPC and CEA at the earliest. During 79th OCC meeting, SE (Comml), NERPC informed that as recommended by Enquiry Committee, the third party independent audit for the Protection systems in NER is to be completed as early as possible and presently Ministry of Power and CEA are also monitoring the progress in various regions it very closely. Therefore, for the benefit of the NER, the upgradation of protection system is very much 11

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal required for smooth and reliable operation of grid and action should be initiated at the earliest. Further, he informed that third party independent audit of Protection systems for Northern region has already been completed by PGCIL in association with CPRI and other regions have also started their action plan. He informed that in NER there are about 135 Nos. of substations/ generating stations of 132kV and above voltage class and also proposed to carryout protection audit for all these substations / generating stations as 132kV system forms the backbone of NER unlike other regions. Since arrangement of funds is the major constraint in NE region, small groups /teams have to be formed taking representation from NER constituents. The committee decided to form teams comprising of four (4) members from different state utilities/owner, PGCIL/NEEPCO/NHPC and NERPC/NERLDC. NERPC will co-ordinate the audit and prepare the further course of action in consultation with NERLDC and POWERGRID. The nominated member of

NERPC/NERLDC will be the co-ordinator of each group. Further, NERPC, in consultation with POWERGRID and NERLDC, had prepared the detailed plan for carrying out the audit of protection system of all 132 kV and above voltage class substations/generating stations in NER. NERPC vide letter dated 26th November, 2012 and 30th November, 2012 had requested PGCIL and other constituents to provide logistic support inform of road transport and stay at various places in NER. During 80th OCC meeting, Member Secretary I/C, NERPC informed that ED, POWERGRID has agreed to provide required support for carrying out the audit of protection system. He also informed that the protection audit for Tripura is likely to be completed before Christmas and from second week of January, 2013, other teams will proceed for the audit and entire audit is likely to be completed by February, 2013. Further, he requested all the constituents to nominate their representatives for the audit. Assam submitted their nominations for audit team. Other constituents agreed to nominate their persons for audit team. After detail deliberation all the constituents agreed to the proposed dates and to extend their supports to complete the audit in time bound manner. During 81st OCC meeting, MS I/C informed that Protection Audit of most of the substations/generating stations in the state of Tripura had been completed. He

12

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal requested all the constituents to extend their supports to complete the audit by February 2013 as per Schedule. The Committee reviewed the status of the Protection Audit and requested each Audit team to prepare a report on findings / observations pertaining to various substations / generating stations audited by them. MS I/C, NERPC informed that as per the planning out of nine (9) routes identified the audit of protection system pertaining to route no. 1, 4, 6, 7 and 8 have been completed and presently audit in respect of route no. 2 and 5 is going on which will be completed by 11th February, 2013. These routes cover most of the

400/220/132kV Sub-Stations and Generating stations in Ar. Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura. The audit of rest of two (2) routes (route no. 3 and 9) will commence from 11th February, 2013. Further, he stated that as on date protection audit in respect of about 100 substations / generating stations has been completed and rest of the work is likely to be completed by February, 2013. After completion of protection audit, the deficiencies in the NER system will be highlighted and discussed in OCC/PCC meetings. The course of action and time frame of implementation of recommendations of protection audit will be planned accordingly. The report on Protection audit along with recommendations will be submitted by March, 2013.

Deliberation of the Committee MS I/C, NERPC briefed the members about the deficiencies observed in some of the audited sub-stations and highlighted the inadequacy of diagnostic tools in most of the stations. As reported by auditing team, details of relay setting are also not available with operating personnel of some of the substations which should have been available with them as the core of protection lies in the relay settings. The formats of reports were also highlighted to the members for perusal.

GM, NERLDC suggested that shortage of man-power may also be highlighted in the reports as round the clock manning of sub-stations is very important for effective and efficient management of the systems. The Sub-committee noted as above.

13

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal C.3 Details of Installations and self-certification (by STUs and CTUs) in respect of operationalisation of Under Frequency Relays (UFRs) in NER systems and additional requirement of UFR and df/dt relays: During 79th OCC, Manipur had informed that the UFRs have been installed on 33 kV Yurembum-Limukhong radial feeder as advised by the committee. In the process installation of all UFRs in the NER has been completed as per earlier decision of the committee. Further all constituents (STUs and CTUs) were requested to furnish the relevant information in the format prescribed by CEA. It was also discussed that the requirement of UFR and df/dt relays need to be reviewed based on the recommendation of the enquiry Committee constituted by the Ministry of Power headed by Chairperson CEA. During 80th OCC meeting, MS (I/C) informed that after the grid disturbance, the Ministry of Power and CEA are closely monitoring the progress in implementation of recommendations of Enquiry Committee. CEA is also asking the operation details of UFRs every now and then. Therefore, all constituents are requested to submit the requisite data at the earliest. Constituents, who have not submitted the required information, have agreed to submit the same at the earliest. Further, he informed that the frequency band has been tightened further by CERC to 49.7 to 50.2, therefore the frequency settings and load relief is further required to be reviewed. During the 81st OCC meeting, NERLDC informed that the Committee for Security of grid constituted by Ministry of Power has revised the quantum of under frequency based load shedding at various frequency bands. Therefore, the under frequency based load shedding in respect of NER needs to be reviewed.

The Committee requested NERPC to finalize the UFR based load shedding in consultation with NERLDC. However, for finalization of UFR based load shedding, further detailed discussion would be required.

During the 82nd OCC meeting, SE (O), NERPC enquired from constituents whether the UFRs installed in the region have operated during the recent grid disturbances occurred on 14.12.2012 & 20.01.2013. He requested all the constituents to furnish the details of UFR operation. All constituents agreed.

14

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal As per clause no. 5.2(n) of IEGC, utilities are to submit UFR operation report on monthly basis to RPC. All constituent states are requested to inform the committee about the operation of UFR since its commissioning, particularly during grid disturbances, which is being monitored strictly by CEA/MoP after the grid disturbances on 30th & 31st July, 2012. The UFR operation detail may please be furnished to RLDC and NERPC as per format circulated. All constituents agreed to submit the data in the prescribed format. The Committee also suggested that if UFR operation can be linked to annunciation on control panel, then operation of UFR can be easily recorded. Deliberation of the Committee After deliberation, it was agreed that whenever sub-stations are upgraded or renovated, possibility of installing automated control panels should be explored so that reports on operation of UFR and other technical details may be recorded and collected efficiently at regional level. S.E (O) requested all the Constituents to submit the report of UFR operation every month as per the format circulated by NERPC and if no operation has taken place then a NIL report maybe submitted so that the same can be circulated with the minutes of the meeting. The constituents requested to discuss the issue in detail during the forthcoming PCC Meeting. The Sub-committee noted as above.

C.4

Lines under long outages

During 80th OCC meeting, the status of lines which are under long outages as given below were reiterated (a) 220kV BTPS Agia (one ckt) since Novemeber, 1997 (b) 132kV Mariani Mokokchung since April, 2008. (c) 39km of 132kV Rengpang Jirbam since October, 2002 (d) 132 kV Dimapur-Dimapur-II

15

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal Assam representatives informed about 220 kV BTPS-Agia- II that it is under stringing stage and it was delayed as the tender was terminated because contractor cannot complete the said job in time. The new tendering is in progress and it will be completed at the earliest. Regarding Mariani-Mokokchung line the Assam side is ready; the Nagaland side is required to be checked. Regarding 132 kV Rengpang-Jiribam line the Manipur representatives informed that the work is in progress and the same will be completed by January, 2013. Further, NERLDC informed that the Dimapur-Dimapur-II is also under long outage. The committee requested NERPC to take up the matter with the concerned State for early restoration of these lines for better grid operation. During the 81st OCC meeting, Assam informed that 220 kV BTPS-Agia will be restored by September, 2013. Manipur informed that commissioning of 132 kV Rengpang-Jiribam line will be completed by January, 2013. The Committee requested NERPC to take up the matter with Nagaland. In response to NERPCs letter dated 14-12-2012, CE, Nagaland, vide his letter dated 21st January 2013, have informed that the portion of 132kV Mokokchung Mariani line (under the jurisdiction of Nagaland) has been kept charged at 33kV and can be charged at 132kV at any point of time provided portion of line in Assam is ready. With regard to 132kV Dimapur (PG) Dimapur (N), in a joint meeting on 16-01-13, it has been decided that POWERGRID, Dimapur will discuss the matter regarding operation procedure with DoP, Nagaland. The status as reviewed in the meeting are as under: (a) 220kV BTPS Agia (one ckt) Assam informed that the tender has been opened and same is under technical evaluation. (b) 132kV Mariani Mokokchung Assam and Nagaland to co-ordinate and bring back the line by February, 2013. (c) 39km of 132kV Rengpang Jirbam Manipur informed that stringing for 5 km section is left out and the same is likely to be completed by February 2013.

16

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal (d) 132 kV Dimapur-Dimapur-II POWERGRID to co-ordinate with Nagaland and discuss operation issues before election (i.e. 23.02.2013) Deliberation of the Committee (a) 220kV BTPS Agia (one ckt) Tender has already been opened and order is likely to be placed by April, 2013 (b) 132kV Mariani Mokokchung CGM (SLDC), AEGCL informed that the line was charged but tripped immediately after charging due to faults in some portion of the lines under Nagaland. He requested NERPC to pursue with Nagaland officials for joint inspection. (c) 39km of 132kV Rengpang Jiribam Manipur informed that stringing is almost complete and the same is likely to be completed by March 2013. (d) 132 kV Dimapur - Dimapur - II POWERGRID informed that Nagaland has agreed to the proposals made by them and the issue will be resolved soon. The Sub-committee noted as above.

C.5

SPS scheme for Pallatana It was observed from load flow studies carried out by NERLDC that tripping of Pallatana unit during peak hours would cause loading of Kopili ICT (160 MVA). To save the situation shedding of around 100 MW of load would be required in the 132 KV pocket through SPS. During 76th OCC meeting, DGM, NERLDC had informed that a special protection scheme is required to be planned for shedding the above load. The committee advised NERPC Secretariat to design the SPS in consultation with NERLDC, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, NEEPCO, NHPC and OTPC. POWERGRID representatives had informed that not only SPS but protection schemes are also required to be reviewed before commissioning of Pallatana GBPP. From the load flow study it was observed that in certain lines there will be reverse flow of power due to tripping of Pallatana. The committee had requested POWERGRID to study the protection schemes and prepare a report. The same will be discussed in the next OCC meeting.

17

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal During 77th OCC meeting, DGM, NERLDC stated that in case of tripping of Pallatana unit, around 120 MW load shedding through SPS would be required in Mizoram, Tripura and South Assam (each 40 MW) and some load shedding would be required in Meghalaya. POWERGRID informed that the implementation of SPS for tripping of far off lines/loads will be difficult as there will be co-ordination problem because of non-availability of communication links and NERLDC should find some other nearby lines or SPS can be linked with Kopili ICT. NERLDC informed that they have identified the list of radial lines in NER system for disconnecting during emergency conditions to save the grid. They pointed out that the SPS can be implemented on those lines which are available in 132 kV Pocket. All the constituents agreed for implementation of SPS on these lines and also for emergency disconnection of listed lines in case of necessity. The committee felt that the SPS scheme is required to be in place at least before the synchronization of Pallatana unit. After detailed deliberation committee requested NERLDC to prepare the SPS scheme of Pallatana in consultation with NERPC and POWERGRID. During 79th OCC meeting, NERLDC informed that lines have been identified in NER system for disconnection during emergency conditions to save the grid. SPS can be planned accordingly. The committee requested NERLDC to give the list of lines associated with tripping of Unit-1 at Pallatana and POWERGRID was requested to plan the implementation of the SPS scheme. During 80th OCC meeting, the committee felt that NERPC, NERLDC and POWERGRID may discuss the matter and plan accordingly for implementation of SPS scheme. NERLDC gave a presentation on grid security for tripping of i) 400 kV SilcharKilling (Byrnihat) line and ii) Palatana Units. The handout of the slides is enclosed at Annexure- C.5. During 82nd OCC meeting NERLDC requested for creation of Power system study group as per recommendation of enquiry committee for Grid disturbance. The subcommittee had agreed for the same. The matter was also brought to the notice of members of TCC and the TCC has also agreed for creation of Power system study group in the region taking representation from various constituent states,

18

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal POWERGRID, NERLDC, NTPC, NEEPCO, NHPC, OTPC and IIT Guwahati. The studies relating to islanding scheme, SPS and any other studies required from time to time can be carried out by the group. The group will not only help for studies on regional basic but will of great help to each state for their planning studies. All members were requested for nominations to the group. Deliberation of the Committee The System Protection Scheme (SPS) associated with tripping of generating unit of OTPC at Pallatana or tripping of 400 kV Silchar-Byrnihat line, prepared by NERLDC, was deliberated during the presentation given by GM, NERLDC. GM, NERLDC emphasized that implementation of the SPS is essential to maintain grid security under above contingency conditions. The tripping of above generating unit or 400kV line may cause grid disturbance which may even lead to grid collapse. The scheme involves immediate tripping of few identified lines at 132kV level within two hops from the Silchar bus. It was agreed that the scheme will require carrier inter-tripping provision for effective load shedding.

DGM, NERTS informed that the existing PLCC channels are fully utilized and there is no spare channel for such carrier inter-tripping and new channels need to be established additionally.

It was agreed that NERTS would examine the scheme in details and would initiate necessary action for successful implementation of the proposed protection scheme at the earliest possible time and the status of implementation plan would be reviewed in next OCC meeting. In 82nd OCC meeting and special TCC meeting, it was decided to create Power system study group in the region taking

representation from various constituents including IIT (Guwahati) and nomination was also requested. Regarding nomination for system study group, the following points are noted: Ar. Pradesh - Nomination will be intimated at the earliest. Assam Nomination will be intimated in coming PCC meeting. Manipur - Nomination will be intimated within a week. Meghalaya - Nomination already furnished Tripura - Nomination will be intimated within a week.

19

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal NEEPCO - Nomination will be intimated soon. NERLDC Nomination will be intimated soon NERTS Nomination already given OTPC Nomination will be intimated soon Mizoram & Nagaland representative were not present, NERPC will take up the matter with them. IIT, Guwahaty nomination will be taken up by NERPC Secretariat. The Sub-committee noted as above.

C.6

Implementation of islanding scheme in NER For survival of different parts/pockets (with identified generation along with some load) of NER grid in the event of grid disturbance, islanding schemes are required to be planned properly & implemented. DGM, NERLDC stated that some islanding schemes need to be planned so that the islands survive during any grid disturbance so that start-up power can be extended to other generating stations. During 77th OCC meeting, the islanding scheme for NER was discussed in detail for separating of NER system from NEW grid and forming of islands in NER. Two proposals for islanding scheme were discussed. In both proposals, first step is isolation of NER from NEW Grid at a particular frequency by tripping of 400kV D/C line and 220kV D/C line connecting ER and NER. In one case it has been proposed for formation of two Sustainable Small System (SSS) and then Unit islanding and ultimately Safe shutdown of Generating units when frequency falls to different levels. The frequency level at which actions are to be initiated is to be finalized after discussion. The Committee requested all the constituents to study the islanding schemes and communicate their comments/suggestions at the earliest so that the islanding scheme for NER can be finalized. Further, DGM, NERLDC informed that the list of radial lines in NER system, which can be tripped during emergency to save the grid, have been identified. During 20

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal emergency there may not be time to co-ordinate with SLDC (like written message etc.) before taking such action. However, formal communication shall be made by NERLDC afterwards. During 79th OCC meeting, the committee felt that further study is required before finalizing the islanding scheme for NER. The committee requested all the NER constituents to study their systems and give suggestions/comments, if any before finalization of the same. All constituents agreed. During 80th OCC meeting, MS I/C stated that the frequency level at which actions are to be initiated, location of UFR & df/dt relays and communication link required etc. needs to be studied for implementation of islanding scheme. The committee suggested that NERPC, NERLDC and POWERGRID may discuss and plan accordingly for implementation. MS (I/C) informed that as per the minutes of the second meeting of Task Force for Power System Analysis Under Contingencies under the Chairmanship of exMember (PS), CEA, the number of small islands may not be the optimum solution. Further, he informed that as NER grid is a small grid, so the Task force may consider NER as a single island. Therefore, few numbers of island scheme for NER grid should be considered to avoid operational difficulty. SE(O), NERPC suggested that NER system may be divided into two islands, however, further studies and discussion would be required for finalizing the scheme. GM, NERLDC also stated that further studies are required for planning and implementation of the scheme. The committee requested NERLDC and NERPC to study the system and prepare final islanding scheme requiring minimum number of line opening and keeping in view the system operation as well as implementation aspects. Deliberation of the Committee The study group mentioned in item C.6 above will look into the matter and the same will be reviewed in OCC/PCC meetings. The Sub-committee noted as above.

21

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal C.7 Loadability Enhancement of 132KV Transmission lines: NERLDC has requested POWERGRID, vide their letter No.NERLDC/GM/547 dtd 14.11.2012 for enhancement of loading capacity of the following lines: a) 132KV S/c Badarpur-Khliehriat Line b) 132KV S/c Loktak-Jiribam-II Line c) 132KV S/c Dimapur-Imphal Line

d) 132KV S/c Imphal-Loktak-II Line NERLDC has stated that enhancement of loading capacity of the above lines is required for higher load dispatch, particularly in the context of evacuation of power from Pallatana GBPP. Accordingly, POWERGRID has already taken the following actions for increased loadability:

Upgradation of existing CTs Upgradation of the terminal CTs of 132KV S/C Loktak-Jiribam_II line, 132KV S/c Dimapur-Imphal line is being taken up by POWERGRID for which the required number of CTs of higher capacity (600/1) had already been ordered by POWERGRID & subsequently dispatched from the manufacturer premises in the month of July-12. However, 10Nos. CTs were damaged during transit. The matter has been taken up with the concerned manufacturer for replenishment of the damaged CTs. The new CTs expected to arrive at site by January13.

Installation of the same shall be carried out on arrival of the new CTs. As for 132KV Badarpur-Khliehriat line, the terminal CTs installed are of 600/1 capacity.

During 80th OCC meeting, NERLDC requested to include following lines for enhancement of loading capacity: i) ii) 132 kV Khandong- Khlerehiet I 132 kV Khandong - Haflong

The committee requested POWERGRID to complete the CT replacement of the above lines at the earliest to increase the loadability of these lines.

22

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal During 81st OCC meeting POWERGRID informed that the Khandong end CTs are having ratio of 300/1 which belongs to NEEPCO. The committee requested NEEPCO to replace the CTs with higher ratio depending on system requirement at the earliest. The committee had requested NERPC Secretariat to write to NEEPCO for replacement of above CTs at the earliest. NERPC Secretariat, vide letter No. NERPC/OP/OCC/2013/2877-78 dated 13-02-2013 had requested NEEPCO to take up the matter. NEEPCO informed the house that tenders are yet to be called for procurement of CTs. Fixing of Additional Jumpers:

Fixing of additional jumpers at Tension Locations of 132KV Dimapur-Imphal line has been completed while that for 132KV Jiribam-Loktak_II line is planned for execution in the month of January-13. In addition to the above, additional jumpering is now planned to be taken up for 132KV Loktak-Imphal-II & Badarpur-Khliehriat lines in line with NERLDCs observation. The required Special Connectors/Clamps for the purpose are under procurement by POWERGRID. A tentative schedule for execution of Additional Jumpering Works in the subject lines is appended below:
Sl. No. 1 2 Name of Line No. of Tension Locations for Additional Jumpering 38 Loc. 176 Loc. Proposed schedule

132KV LoktakImphal- II 132KV BadarpurKhliehriat

10th February13 to 20th Feb13 25th Feb13 to 10th Mar13

POWERGRID shall accordingly propose for the required daytime shutdown of the respective lines in the preceding OCC Meetings Constituents agreed to support POWERGRID for carrying out the modification required for the lines. The committee requested POWERGRID to plan for additional jumpering. 23

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal Deliberation of the Committee POWERGRID intimated the status as below: The fixing of additional jumpers in 132 KV Loktak Jiribam II line has been completed on 01.03.2013. Also fixing of additional jumpers in 132 KV Badarpur Khliehriat line & 132 KV Loktak Imphal II line the order for special connectors has already been placed by them and the same is likely to be delivered at site by 20.03.2013. Accordingly, the work is planned to be started w.e.f. 25.03.2013 in 132 KV Badarpur Khliehriat line followed by 132 KV Loktak Imphal II line. The Sub-committee noted as above.

C.8

LGBR for 2013 -2014: During the 82nd OCC meeting, the issue of LGBR for 2013 -14 for NE Region has been discussed in detailed and all the constituents have been requested to submit the data for preparation of LGBR at the earliest as per the proforma circulated. The formats have also been made available in the website of NERPC

(www.nerpc.nic.in) which covers the outage planning for Generating units as well as important transmission elements in state and central sector.

All utilities had agreed to submit the data by February, 2013. Deliberation of the Committee S.E (O), informed that till date no constituents have submitted the above data except TSECL, NEEPCO & Me.ECL (however, Me.ECL has not furnished the maintenance schedule of its generating stations & transmission lines). Constituents are requested to submit the above data in the format furnished by NERPC at the earliest. The Sub-committee noted as above.

C.9

Grid Security Expert System (GSES): POWERGRID has planned an automated defense plan for all five regions named as

24

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal Grid Security Expert System (GSES). The Region wise estimated cost based on the feeders identified by POSOCO including IDC shall be as follows:

S.N Subject

NR

SR

WR

ER

NER

All India

1.

Estimated DPR cost of GSES 82.59 (in Rs. Crores) Number Feeders of 1064

42.13

124.85

55.42

49.47

354.46

2. 3.

763

1502

503

410

4242

Estimated DPR cost of OPGW based 141.61 communication system (in Rs. Crores) Length OPGW of 4967

368.37

174.24

83.18

80.42

847.82

4.

14706

6111

2868

2688

31340

Total Estimated cost 224.20 (in Rs. Crores)

410.50

299.09

138.60

129.89

1202.30

The GSES was discussed in detail in last Special TCC held at Shillong on 9th February, 2013. After detailed deliberation the following decisions of the TCC was conveyed to CERC. 1. All constituents agreed in principle to the technical requirement of the GSES scheme for NER grid. 2. The basic infrastructure at most of Sub-station like circuit breakers, protection relays, etc. are not adequate for implementation of the scheme. 3. There are no full fledged SLDCs in Ar. Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland. 4. Funding is major concern as NER states are financially weak. 5. The quantum of UFR based load shedding needs to be relooked for NER States. 6. More deliberation on technical and commercial issues is required before formulation/implementation of the scheme.

25

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal All constituents had agreed in principle to the technical requirement of the GSES scheme for NER grid, but more deliberation on technical and commercial implication was required before formulation / implementation of the scheme. It was agreed that DPR prepared by POWERGRID for GSES and other related details will be sent to constituent states for scrutiny and the matter will be deliberated further in OCC/CC meeting.

C.10 Assessment of Total Transfer Capability (TTC), Transmission Reliability Margin (TRM) and Availability Transfer Capability (ATC) by SLDC on respective Inter-state transmission corridor: As per Clause No. 4.1 of Detailed Procedure for Relieving Congestion in Real Time Operation, SLDC shall assess TTC, TRM and ATC on its inter-state transmission corridor considering a mesh intra-state corridor for import or export of power with the Inter-state Transmission system (ISTS). SLDCs of NER are requested to assess the above on monthly basis, 5 months in advance (eg: TTC/TRM/ATC for the month of November to be calculated by 15th of July), for further assessment of TTC, ATC and TRM of NER ER corridor by NERLDC and for assessment of TTC / ATC for a group of control areas, individual control areas with the region and state-control-area to state-control-area by NERLDC, if required. Power Utilities are requested to send the results of calculations along with assumptions and *.sav (PSS/E saved case format) files to NERLDC by 15th of the month. During the 81st OCC meeting, the committee requested SLDCs to take initiatives for assessment of TTC, TRM, ATC for their inter-state transmission system. NERLDC gave a presentation on the congestion of ER-NER corridor. During 82nd OCC meeting, Assam Representatives stated that the criteria and methodology of calculation of TTC/ATC with typical example may be made available to the constituents so that they will be aware of the TTC calculations and they can calculate TTC/ATC for their own system / inter-regional/intra-regional transmission line.

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Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal

NERLDC agreed to provide the details of criteria and methodology of calculations of ATC/TTC. Deliberation of the Committee During the meeting, NERLDC had also made presentation on this issue to highlight about the technical constraint. All the constituents requested NERLDC to enhance the ATC/TTC so that acute shortage of power in the region can be relieved during the lean hydro period, since generation from Pallatana GBPP is not expected before May, 2013. GM, NERLDC informed that due to limitation in 400 KV Farakka Malda D/C line and (N-1) criteria, the import of power from ER is being restricted by NLDC. S.E (O), NERPC suggested that matter should be discussed with ERPC and CEA All the constituents agreed to the proposal.

The Committee noted as above.

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Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal

D.

NEW

ITEMS

D.1

Proforma for Operational Statistics The operational Statistics as given below was not furnished in the meeting. (i) Schedule Vs Actual Generation.

(ii) Peak Demand: Schedule Vs Actual. (iii) Integrated Operation of the system. (iv) Details of DC, schedules and injections from Central sector stations, drawal schedules and entitlements of constituents. (v) Details of major reservoirs in NER. The operational statics were shown in the presentation by NERLDC.

The Sub-committee noted as above. D.2 State-wise anticipated peak demand/requirement, shortage for March- July, 2013. The sub-Committee reviewed & finalized the anticipated peak

demand/energy requirement/Availability (without Pallatana generation) for the months of March to July, 2013. A. Peak Demand
Peak S.No. State Demand (MW) Mar 13 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Ar. Pradesh Assam Manipur Meghalaya Mizoram Nagaland Tripura Region 105 1210 105 280 75 115 230 2120 Peak Demand (MW) Apr 13 105 1230 100 280 70 110 230 2125 Peak Demand (MW) May 13 110 1250 110 290 75 120 240 2195 Peak Demand (MW) Jun 13 110 1250 110 280 70 110 230 2160 Peak Demand (MW) Jul 13 130 1300 130 280 90 120 250 2300

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Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal B. Peak Availability

Peak S.No. State Availability (MW) Mar 13 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Ar. Pradesh Assam Manipur Meghalaya Mizoram Nagaland Tripura Region 75 920 75 180 55 75 145 1525

Peak Availability (MW) Apr 13 70 900 70 175 50 75 140 1480

Peak Availability (MW) May 13 65 850 70 170 45 75 130 1405

Peak Availability (MW) Jun 13 65 825 70 165 45 65 120 1355

Peak Availability (MW) Jul 13 120 1000 120 250 75 90 185 1840

The Committee noted as above.

D.3

Ensuring FGMO/RGMO, AVR & PSS tuning for operation of units In line with IEGC & other regulations the following aspects may be ensured while operation of generating units: i. Operation of generators under Free Governor Mode of Operation (FGMO) or Restricted Governor Mode of Operation (RGMO).

ii. iii. iv.

Operation of Generating Units within capability limits as per Capability Curves. Proper settings of Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) and Proper tuning of Power System Stabilizers.

The issue has gained significant importance in the aftermath of twin grid disturbances on 30th & 31st July, 2012. All concerned are requested to please attach maximum priority on this aspect and do the needful at the earliest. In this regard directions of Honble CERC against Petition nos. 191/2011(Suo-motu) & 4752/MP/2012 may please be referred. During the 81st OCC meeting, the subcommittee had requested all generating companies and constituent states of the region to furnish status of implementation of RGMO.

29

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal The status of implementation of FGMO/RGMO & PSS is as given below: Assam: Karbi Langpi HEP- The machines are very old (Manufactured in 1983) and there is no provision of FGMO and it is not possible to implement RGMO. Me.ECL: Umiam Stage-III- Extension has been requested from CERC for putting FGMO. NHPC: Loktak- Machines are operating with FGMO and sincere effort is being made to implement RGMO by October, 2013. NEEPCO informed that PSS tuning has not yet been done for Unit#-III of RHEP and same is likely to be completed by 2014. OTPC also informed that the Generating units are with PSS. Meghalaya informed that for Umiam Stage III PSS has not been tested. The same would be cheeked and intimated accordingly The Committee noted as above. D.4 Generation Planning (ongoing and planned outages) The daily availability for hydro stations was reviewed in the meeting as per the present water level of different reservoir which is as given below: Khandong Kopilli Kopili- IIRanganadi Doyang Loktak 0.1476 MU 0.6550 MU 0.3150 MU (subject to inflow) 0.0540 MU 0.3150 MU

The shutdown proposal of NEEPCO/NHPC as approved by the committee is enclosed at Annexure D.4. The acute shortage of power in the region, during this lean hydro period, is compounded due to non-availability of generation from GBPP of OTPC. Expecting the availability of generation from OTPC plant after May 2013 and taking into consideration the acute shortage of power in the region during this lean hydro period,

30

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal Member Secretary I/C suggested to utilize the available water in the reservoir of Kolipli HEP so as to provide some relief to constituent states during the peak hours. All constituents supported the suggestion of Member Secretary I/C and NERLDC was requested to take necessary action accordingly. The Sub-committee noted as above.

D.5

Outage Planning Transmission elements After detail discussion the sub-committee approved the shutdown proposal for March/April, 2013 as given in Annexure D.5. SE (O), NERPC requested all the constituents to submit the Shutdown proposals by end of the preceding month so that it can be planned in better way for smooth grid operation and last minute change in shutdowns programme can be avoided. All the constituents agreed to intimate the list of shutdowns by the end of the current month before the next OCC meeting. The Sub-committee noted as above.

D.6

Estimated Transmission Availability Certificate (TAC) for the month of February, 2013. The Estimated Transmission/System Availability for the month of February, 2013 furnished by PGCIL is 99.9492% as per details at Annexure D.6. NER constituents were requested to give their comments and observations, if any, by 25th March, 2013 so that Final TAC for the month of February, 2013 can be issued. The sub-Committee noted as above.

D.7

Major grid disturbances in the previous month (February, 2013 ) As intimated by NERLDC, there was no major grid disturbance during the month of February, 2013. The sub-Committee noted as above.

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Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal

D.8

Mock Black start exercise of ISGS stations as well as state sector generating stations of NER: In line with the stipulations of IEGC clause 5.8(b) mock black start exercise of ISGS stations are being carried out every year. The exercise for RHEP & DHEP will be carried out in the last week of February, 2013. States, who are having own generation are also requested to carry out similar exercise. During the 81st OCC meeting, the subcommittee had requested all generating companies (state & central sector) to provide details of the Mock Black start exercise of generating station (if carried out so far). NEEPCO agreed to carry out the exercise as decided by NERLDC. OTPC informed that they dont have adequate capacity of DG set to Black Start their machine. Deliberation of the Committee The issue was deliberated and GM (O&M) NHPC stated that Loktak black started last year supplying power to Manipur for 24 hours. He further stated that in order to carry out such mock black start, proper co-ordination is required from both NERLDC and beneficiary states as such test is vital for security of the grid. Sr. Manager, NEEPCO informed that mock black start was done for Doyang HEP and the generating station was supplying power to Nagaland but hunting of machine started while loading the machine. He requested NERLDC to check the load increment so that proper loading of machine is achieved to prevent tripping. The sub-Committee noted as above.

D.9

Empowering of SLDC: It has been observed in many occasions that Shift-In-Charges available in control rooms of some SLDCs are not able to take decision in respect of curtailment of overdrawal, without the consent of superiors, despite of several requests from NERLDC. This practice should be avoided by empowering the Shift-In-Charges to take decisions on their own considering the grid condition.

32

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal

Manipur and Nagaland- Have already empowered their shift-in-charge available in the control room to take action for curtailment of loads as per advice of NERLDC instructions. Assam, Me.ECL, - They also co-ordinate with NERLDC for curtailment of the load as per their requirement. Tripura, Mizoram and Ar. Pradeshshould also take decision regarding

empowerment of shift-in-charge available in the control room to take action for curtailment of loads as per advice of NERLDC instructions. Deliberation of the Committee The Sub-committee requested NERPC to write to Head of Departments requesting to empower the SLDCs for following the directions of NERLDC. The sub-Committee noted as above.

D.10 Maintenance of Isolators at 79 Tilla S/S: Tripura informed that maintenance work of 6 nos of isolators at 79 Tilla Grid s/s which are connected with 132 KV R C Nagar L-I & L II have been pending since a very long time. Power Grid had done only partial maintenance work on 3 (three) isolators out 6 (six). The remaining work of isolators along with Earth switches is very urgent from operational point of view. POWERGRID agreed to look into the issue and work is expected to be completed by 15th April 2013.

D.11 Backing down of Tripura generation: Tripura informed that they have to back down its own generation as per instruction of NERLDC, Shillong for allowing evacuation of Pallatana power in different spell which resulted over drawal by Tripura and payable to UI. As per PPA with GAIL, TSECL is also to Pay 90% of contracted quantity of Gas, over & above paying of UI & POC charges & POSOCO etc.

33

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal Deliberation of the Committee The issue regarding backing down of generation by Tripura during trial run of Unit#1 of OTPC and the commercial losses of Tripura was deliberated in the meeting. However, the committee was of the opinion that all other beneficiary states had to bear the burden of reduction in their entitlements due to backing down of generation from Central Sector Generating Stations and the commercial loss due to backing down of own generation. The central sector generating stations had also sacrifice the energy charges due to backing down of generation. It was agreed that all beneficiaries will have to bear burden of commercial losses for commissioning of such big Unit in the region. TSECL was advised to submit the details of commercial losses incurred during trial period of Pallatana in the next OCC meeting only for information of the committee. The Sub-committee noted as above. D.12 Network problem in Tripura: Tripura informed that NERLDC has introduced day to day real time operation with web based communication (e-Governance) like e-mail instead of FAX. TSECL is facing difficulties to access e-mail and opening of website in real time due to network problem. Thus TSECL prefer to continue existing arrangement of FAX facility with NERLDC for communication of all kind of information to TSECL. The Sub-committee noted as above and NERLDC was requested to send the communication to TSECL by fax as well as through e-mail till their problem is resolved. D.13 Name of injecting/withdrawal by utilities: Tripura requested to indicate the name of the injecting/withdrawal utility for bilateral transaction/ swapping while publishing the schedule. It is required for future record & reference. The issue was deliberated and the difficulty experienced by NERLDC for depicting such detail of transaction was noted. It was agreed that the present practice will be followed until new requisition based scheduling software is procured/developed by NERLDC. TSECL was advised to request NERLDC for any specific requirement besides information available in the website of NERLDC. 34

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal

D.14 Power flow from 400/220KV Misa S/S: Me.ECL informed that as per information available with their office the 400KV Killing Silchar lines were energized on three occasions i.e., on the 25th February (at 22:10Hrs), 26th February (at 21:11 Hrs) and 3rd March (at 21:26Hrs) 2013 respectively. During such occasions it is observed that there was flow of power from the 400/220 kV MISA substation to the corresponding substation at Silchar via Me.ECLs 220Kv MISA- Killing lines.

In view of the above, the matter on the Status of the 220 kV MISA- Killing lines with regard to such Inter-State flow of power may please be discussed.

The issue was deliberated and members agreed that 220kV MISA - Killing Line may be included in the list of deemed ISTS Lines identified by RPC. However, for recovery of tariff through PoC mechanism, Yearly Transmission Charges fixed by concerned Regulatory Commission should be available and system studies need to be carried out to prove that the line carries more than 50% of inter-state power. It was also noted that no system studies have been done for the deemed ISTS Lines identified by RPC. The proposal of Me.ECL will be put up to TCC/ RPC for approval.

D.15 High tripping rate & Long Duration Outage of dedicated 11 KV Feeder for Auxiliary Power Supply to 132KV Badarpur Substation: The 11 KV HT dedicated feeder emanating from Panchgram Lower Substation (AEGCL) & connected to 132KV POWERGRID Badarpur Substation was constructed by ASEB (as a deposit work) for catering to the Auxiliary power/station load requirement of 132KV Badarpur Substation. However, service of the said feeder has been found to be considerably unreliable. On an average, the feeder has been found to trip 10-15 times a day with cumulative outage hours up to 5 hrs per day. The matter has been taken up & repeatedly pursued with ASEB (CAEDCL) on a number of occasions but there has been no improvement in reliability of the feeder.

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Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal The 132KV Badarpur Substation is a vital node for catering to the power requirement of the 132KV pocket & is connected to major substations viz. 400KV Silchar Substation & 132KV Panchgram Substation(AEGCL) in addition to 3 other key substations. Further, the station is playing a significant role for evacuation of power from Pallatana GBPP to the rest of the 132KV pocket. Hence uninterrupted auxiliary power supply to the station is of utmost requirement for maintaining a healthy Protection & Communication System at the station.

The issue has been discussed in 80th & 81st OCC meeting, whereby it was informed by Assam that there are some temporary tappings from the existing 11KV dedicated feeder connected to POWERGRID Badarpur S/s. Subsequently, it was also learnt that the temporary tappings have been removed.

However, there has been no improvement in service of the dedicated feeder since frequent power interruption still continues to take place on account of load shedding.

ASEB (CAEDCL) may kindly treat the above-said issue with priority & take necessary action for ensuring uninterrupted power supply through the 11 KV dedicated feeder connected to POWERGRID Badarpur Substation. The matter was referred to Protection Co-Ordination sub-Committee Meeting (PCCM).

D.16 Continuous violation of ATC/TTC limits due to overdrawal by constituents urgent requirement of Pallatana generation: NERLDC informed that ATC/TTC limits of ER-NER corridor is being violated continuously due to sustained over drawal by constituents resulting in insecure operation of integrated grid. Less availability of power within the region is the root cause of this problem. All concerned are requested to co-operate for secure operation of grid by maintaining drawal as per schedule. At the same time Generation at Pallatana is urgently required at this juncture to save the situation. The Sub Committee noted and constituents are requested to co-operate with NERLDC and follow the drawal schedules for secure operation of grid.

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Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal

D.17 Intimation regarding transmission charges for use of state network: NERLDC informed that as per clause 10 of CERC (Open Access in Inter-state Transmission)(Amendment) Regulations, 2009 state commissions of respective states are required to specify transmission charge for use of state network in Rs./MWh. In case transmission charges are not specified, the same is payable at the rate of Rs.80/MWh. All the states are requested to specify the rates for 2013-14 by 31st March, 2013, in absence of which Rs 80/MWh will be considered for usage of state network. The Sub Committee noted and constituents are requested to pursue the matter.

D.18 Grid Security issues & design of SPS for system protection in case of tripping of 400 KV Silchar Byrnihat line, 400 KV Silchar Pallatana line or tripping of Pallatana machine: NERLDC informed that Design of SPS for above conditions have become very essential to ensure grid security in the region. Draft Schemes have been modeled and put up for finalization. Deliberated during presentation of NERLDC.

D.19 Development of Power Atlas of NER states: NERLDC informed that CBIP was engaged to develop Power Atlas. Power Atlas of NER states except Meghalaya is being developed. Power Utilities of NER are requested to verify Power Atlas developed by CBIP. State-wise Power Atlas developed by CBIP was circulated and constituents were requested to verify the same. The same will be uploaded in NERPC website for perusal.

D.20 Submission of Updated Switching Diagram of each node of NER Grid (132 KV and above level): NERLDC informed that Power Utilities of NER are requested to send Updated Switching Diagram of each node of NER Grid (132 kV & above level) with all devices 37

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal (LA, CT, CVT/PT, Isolator, CB, Earth Switch, Wave Trap etc) as these are required for study purpose. It was agreed that the detail data collected during protection audit may be utilized for reference.

D.21 VSAT communication system for RC - SLDCs: During the 76th OCC meeting, NERLDC informed that due to supply of subspecification item, the VSAT order will be cancelled & fresh tender will be initiated. In the meantime POWERGRID is establishing a State-of-the-Art optical fiber based communication facility for the entire country connecting all RLDCs, NLDC & SLDCs. In view of this the process of retendering of VSAT communication system for four RC-SLDCs is being dropped to avoid duplication. The Sub-Committee noted as above.

D.22 Any Other Item:

D.23.1 Additional agenda items:

1. Open cycle generation of AGBPP: The following set of meters is used for calculation of open cycle generation of AGBPP. KT-03 KT-04 KT-05 KT-06 KT-07 KT-08 KT-09 KT-10 KT-11 NP-5804-A NP-5805-A NP-5806-A NP-5807-A NP-5818-A NP-5819-A NP-5820-A NP-5822-A NP-5823-A 0150 0150 0150 0150 0150 0150 0150 0150 0150 2000.0000 2000.0000 2000.0000 2000.0000 2000.0000 2000.0000 2000.0000 2000.0000 2000.0000 KATHALGURI KATHALGURI KATHALGURI KATHALGURI KATHALGURI KATHALGURI KATHALGURI KATHALGURI KATHALGURI GT-1 GT-2 GT-3 GT-4 GT-5 GT-6 GT-7 GT-8 GT-9

There are 3 modules with set of 3 meters viz. Module-1: NP-5820-A (Steam turbine 1); NP-5804-A (Gas turbine 1) and NP-5805-A (Gas turbine 2)

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Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal Module-2: NP-5822-A (Steam turbine 2); NP-5806-A (Gas turbine 3) and NP-5807-A (Gas turbine 4) Module-3: NP-5823-A (Steam turbine 3); NP-5818-A (Gas turbine 5) and NP-5819-A (Gas turbine 6) Open cycle generation is calculated by assuming that the plant is operating in open cycle whenever reading of meters installed with the steam is zero and there is some reading on either of the gas turbines for each module. However, sometimes reading of the steam turbine is not available and in such case, it is assumed that the steam turbine is under shut-down/ maintenance and the same are being treated as open cycle mode unless it is reported that meter is faulty. Considering the recent hearing at CERC, open cycle mode of operation may be required to be discussed in OCC/CC meetings and RPC Secretariat may be required to certify the open cycle generation for each month. The following points are suggested for deliberation in respect of open cycle generation of AGBPP: 1) The monthly percentage figures indicated in the Regional Energy Account are indicative of open cycle generation for that month and it has no commercial implication until the same has been agreed in OCC / CC meetings. 2) In case of emergency situation, NEEPCO may intimate NERLDC/ NERPC the requirement to operate in open cycle mode. 3) The healthiness, correctness and present status of the set of meters used for calculation of open cycle generation should be jointly verified by

NEEPCO/PGCIL and APDCL. 4) Whenever the reading of any of the above set of meters used for calculation of open cycle generation is un-available due to any reason, the reason should be sent to NERLDC/ NERPC immediately. If the reason of nonavailability is not sent to NERLDC/ NERPC, the same may be treated as operation in combined cycle mode. The issue was deliberated in 19th Commercial Co-ordination Committee Meeting held at Guwahati and members agreed the following points. 1) NEEPCO should not claim commercial benefits arising out of certification from RPC Secretariat unless the same is approved in OCC/CC forums. 39

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal 2) RPC Secretariat will not mention open cycle generation certification of AGBPP in the monthly REAs henceforth; however, the same will be depicted as open cycle generation of AGBPP for the month which can be used for billing purpose only after approval in OCC/CC/PCC forum. 3) Before operating in open cycle mode, NEEPCO should inform NERLDC about operation in open cycle mode. The reason/urgency and tentative duration should be intimated. 4) NERLDC should intimate beneficiaries about open cycle operation of the plant. Beneficiaries may not like to buy such power at a higher price. Moreover, since scheduling of generation is done on station basis and not unit basis, scheduling of generation is not feasible unless scheduling is done on unit basis. 5) As RPC Secretariat is certifying open cycle generation of combined cycle plants in other regions, the same will be required to be certified by NERPC Secretariat. The issue is brought to the members for deliberations to find out a suitable method of certifying open cycle generation for combined cycle plants. The Sub-Committee noted and the matter will be deliberated in OCC/CC forum after CERCs hearing on April 9, 2013. 2. Representation in OCC/CC meetings: The issue was deliberated in 19th Commercial Committee Meeting and it was suggested to include representation of commercial personnel in OCC forum and vice versa for CC forum. The Sub-Committee agreed to the suggestion of CC Meeting.

D.23.2 Agenda By AEGCL: 1. In many occasions, it has been observed that scheduling of ISGS like Ranganadi and Kopili were increased for very short time period. In general in between 19:45 hrs to 20:00 hrs, the increased quantum is around 50 to 70 MW. So, it is very difficult to manage the load for that said period as we can neither utilize that power for such a brief period nor can we show under drawal at 40

Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal 20:00 hrs as we always have to impose heavy load shedding. This will reflect the erratic picture of our peak loading. CGM (SLDC), AEGCL explained the situation citing that sudden increase of load to 50 to 70 MW in a time-block and reducing again in the next block is not feasible. Besides, since the schedule is already increased by certain amount, the corresponding under drawal at 20:00 hrs may be interpreted as Assam having surplus power during that period, which is not the real situation as load shedding is imposed to on the consumers. He requested

NERLDC to look into the issue and avoid such fluctuations in the schedule so that proper drawal schedule can be implemented by SLDCs.

The sub-committee noted and requested NERLDC to look into the matter for remedial measures. The same will be reviewed in next OCC meeting.

2. Due to low generation of hydro power station and further reduction of TTC/ATC at the NER-ER corridor, the power scenario of NER is horrible nowadays. In this connection, Member Secretary (I/C) of NERPC has been requested to discuss the issue when all the beneficiaries of NER will take stable power from Pallatana. CGM, SLDC, Assam emphasized the need for enhancement of TTC/ATC in ERNER corridor so that short term purchases can be made by Assam from outside the region and acute shortage of power in Assam can be relieved to some extent and the misery of persons working for distribution system will be reduced.

The matter has already been discussed at item No.D.4

The sub-committee also suggested Assam to have a bilateral tie up with Tripura to purchase the Small quantum of power, which is being sold by Tripura to outside the region through Power Exchange. 3. It is understood that 2 nos of 160 MVA 220/ 132 kV ATS have been installed at Byrnihat (PG) sub-station to evacuate power through 132 kV network. In this regard, Assam would like to know from Meghalaya whether any provision has

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Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal been kept to tap the power either at Kahilipara or at Sarusajai through this 132 kV network. SE (SLDC), Me.ECL informed that there is no existing arrangement to tap power at the above stations. AEGCL was requested to contact the

transmission wing of Me.ECL for further informations/details.

D.23.3 Agenda By NHPC: ED, NHPC informed that the low voltage (121kV to 123kV) at Loktak 132kV bus is creating problem for auxiliary system and motors are likely to be damaged due to low voltage.

GM, NERLDC informed that the voltage is well within the tolerable band of CERC. The matter was discussed earlier in OCC meeting. The committee requested NHPC to submit details regarding the low voltage problem to NERLDC for further study and matter will be deliberated in next OCC.

D.23 Date & Venue of next OCC meeting

It is proposed to hold the 84th OCC meeting of NERPC on 9th April, 2013 (Tuesday). As per roaster, Mizoram will be the host for 84th OCC meeting. The exact venue will be intimated in due course.

The meeting ended with thanks to the Chair.

*************

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Minutes of 83rd OCC meeting held on 11 th March, 2013 at Imphal Annexure-I List of Participants in the 83rd OCC meeting held on 11/03/2013

SN
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32.

Name & Designation Sh. Tarik Mize, EE(E), SLDC Sh. N.C. Das, CGM, SLDC Sh. P.K. Sarma, GM (Com) Sh. B Bordoloi, DGM, SLDC Sh. A. K. Saikia, AGM Sh. K. Goswami, AGM, APDCL Sh. Shantikumar, EE (SCD-I) Sh. Th. Kamini M Singh, EE (TCD-I) Sh. B.C. Sharma, EE (SCD-II) Sh. A. Kharpan, SE (SLDC) Sh. D.J. Lyngdoh, AEE, SLDC No Representative No Representative Sh. B. Debbarma, DGM (SO) Sh. Debabrata Pal, Sr. Mgr. Sh. T. S. Singh, GM Sh. B. Medhi, Dy. Mgr. Sh. P. Kanungo, DGM Sh. S.I. Singh, DGM Sh. B. Goswami, Sr. Mgr. (E) Sh. D. Chattopadhyay, GM (O&M) Sh. B.S. Karn, CE (Loktak) Sh. R. C. Singh, Mgr.(E) Sh. H. Deshmukh, Engr (E) Sh. Pranay Kumar, Engr. (E) Sh. R.K. Tanzing, Engr. (E) Sh. A. Mukherjee, JE Sh. Mukul Banerjee, GM (Plant) Sh. S.K. Ray Mohapatra, MS I/C Sh.B. Lyngkhoi, SE (O) Sh. Lalrinsanga, AS Sh. S. M. Aimol, EE

Organization Ar. Pradesh Assam Assam Assam Assam Assam Manipur Manipur Manipur Meghalaya Meghalaya Mizoram Nagaland Tripura Tripura NERLDC NERLDC NERTS PGCIL, Imphal NEEPCO NHPC NHPC NHPC NHPC NHPC NHPC NHPC OTPC NERPC NERPC NERPC NERPC

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