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.

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 Stakeholders endorsed rule changes to clarify that generation owners providing Tier 2 synchronized reserves will be measured in the aggregate when PJM evaluates their performance under a new penalty structure.

EPA Secretary Gina McCarthy yesterday continued her charm offensive in advance of the agency’s ghg rules for existing power generators, acknowledging that the tough work is only just beginning.

A look at how MISO and the Northeast RTOs are planning to cope with winter 2014-15.

PJM wasn’t the only place the winter 2013-14 made its mark in the record books. MISO, the Southwest Power Pool and NYISO all hit all-time winter peaks during January’s polar vortex, while ISO New England came up just short.

The winter’s high prices for gas and power have busted budgets and left state regulators and consumer advocates scrambling for answers. FERC says it has seen no evidence of market manipulation.

PJM is considering boosting its capacity payments to nuclear plants and others with firm winter fuel supplies, the RTO told a FERC technical conference Tuesday.

Former FERC Chariman Jon Wellinghoff is coming under fire from some of his old colleagues for comments he has made to the media regarding grid safety.

FERC approved a new definition of the bulk electric system that refines the exclusions for radial facilities and local networks.