The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) has launched the Inverter-Based Resource (IBR) Registration Initiative as a critical element of its 2022 Inverter-Based Resource Strategy to strengthen the reliability of the Bulk Power System (BPS) amid the growing integration of renewable energy resources. With inverter-based resources (IBRs)—including wind, solar photovoltaic systems, and battery energy storage—playing an increasingly significant role in the grid, NERC has identified a reliability gap: many IBR owners and operators are not currently registered with NERC or subject to its Reliability Standards. In response to a 2022 FERC directive, NERC is implementing a structured work plan to identify and register these entities by 2026. The initiative’s Quick Reference Guide, updated in May 2025, provides a comprehensive visual dashboard detailing project milestones, key updates, and accessible resources, all hosted on NERC’s Registration page for stakeholder convenience.
Structured across three phases from May 2023 to May 2026, the initiative progresses systematically.
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Phase 1
Phase 1 (2023–2024) finalized revisions to NERC’s Rules of Procedure and initiated outreach to Category 2 Generator Owners (GO) and Generator Operators (GOP) through industry associations. -
Phase 2
Phase 2 (2024–2025) concentrated on identifying these candidates and maintaining engagement through quarterly progress reports, webinars, and workshops, with a notable update submitted to FERC in May 2025. -
Phase 3
Phase 3 (2025–2026) will complete the registration process, ensuring compliance with applicable Reliability Standards, supported by targeted educational efforts. Stakeholders can access a range of resources, including an open letter, a 101 Resource Document, an introductory IBR video, quarterly updates from Q1 2024 to Q1 2025, compliance practice guides, and webinar materials from November 2024 and March 2025.
Through robust collaboration with industry partners, NERC is fostering a reliable and resilient BPS, ensuring the seamless integration of IBRs into the evolving energy landscape. See the full implementation plan here.
For questions or to discuss further, reach out to the GDS Energy Reliability & Security Team and let us know how we can help.