As temperatures soared into the 80s outside PJM offices last week, stakeholders began debating how to avoid a repeat of the gas dispatch operational problems from last winter.

PJM issued a comprehensive report on its response to the historic power demand during winter’s deep freeze, adding nine proposed recommendations for action to five initiatives already underway.

Members agreed to consider an easier method for transmission owners to access real-time generator data, an effort intended to improve situational awareness and emergency response.

PJM took its first step toward requiring cold weather generator tests, briefing the Operating Committee last week on a proposed problem statement it hopes will result in improved preparedness next winter.

Stakeholders endorsed manual changes to implement dispatch rules for demand response and lessons learned from the extreme weather of the last year.

PJM Stakeholders are still considering revisions to black start compensation following the rejection of two proposals in March, but zones currently identified as deficient won’t be in jeopardy when generation retirements rise in spring 2015.

PJM is planning a system-wide drill Sept. 23 to simulate simultaneous physical attacks on critical substations, cyber attacks and loss of SCADA.

Calpine announced SPS to accommodate Susquehanna-Roseland construction while PPL posted new line designations.

Nearing the end of one of the harshest winters in its history, PJM is considering requiring winter testing of generators.

Two new PJM substations, part of the Susquehanna-Roseland transmission project, are nearly complete.