Certrec Client’s CIP Guided Self-Certification Saves Resources in Short and Long Term
Fort Worth, TX (PRWEB) September 19, 2017 -- Certrec, a leading regulatory compliance provider for NERC compliance, assisted a generator client in developing and submitting a NERC CIP guided self-certification. The regulator found the submittal to be compliant.
“This CIP guided self-certification reinforces the registered entity’s obvious commitment to compliance,” stated the regulator.
This generator, an ongoing NERC support client of Certrec, has a long history of compliance. This history is recognized by the regulator. NERC pays close attention to entities that experience challenges in compliance by adding more frequent audits, increased in-depth reviews, and, possibly, fines.
Many registered entities, as well as regional entities, invest significant resources in the self-certification process and guided self-certifications. Initially, the registered entity organizes and reviews relevant procedures, policies, and evidence. Depending upon the current NERC compliance program, this process may be relatively simple or it could involve several people locating test results, training information, and other needed evidence. If a violation is discovered, the self-certification process may result in a self-report. Once the self-certification package is submitted to the regional entity, the review process begins. Depending upon the quality of the self-certification package and supporting evidence, the regional entity may request clarifications or additional information or not.
When all aspects are considered, the registered entity and the regional entity may each have invested thousands of dollars in resources to prepare for a guided self-certification effort.
An entity that is dedicated to compliance operates every day in compliance. Every day, they are audit ready and this is accomplished through an effective Internal Controls Process with periodic self-evaluations of effectiveness, coupled with a robust corrective action process.
“This particular client is dedicated to NERC compliance with a solid history of a robust program and successful audits. They are also one of the entities that has been provided with “special trust and confidence” in that they are actively participating in the self-logging program. This history demonstrates a commitment to compliance which is not lost on the regulator. A strong track record of NERC compliance can be helpful if there is a minor misstep.” - Bob Biggs, Office of NERC Compliance Services Director.
Certrec Corporation is dedicated to regulatory compliance exclusively and has been since we started in 1988. We believe our approach is the key to our successful client programs as well as our growing NERC practice.
Currently Certrec provides NERC compliance support on an ongoing basis to several U.S. fleets. In addition, Certrec supports other individual sites. We have worked with 2 wind fleets for several years (since 2009 for our first fleet) and appreciate the trust that these clients have in our team. Our clients include solar, wind, hydro, fossil and nuclear generators.
Founded in 1988, Certrec is an engineering and technology based organization providing regulatory support services in the electric power industry. With over 1200 cumulative years of direct industry experience (including wind, solar, nuclear, and fossil), Certrec has developed exceptional capabilities to support regulatory activities emanating from regulatory entities such as the North American Electric Reliability Corporation and Regional Entities (NERC), the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and other regulatory agencies. Certrec's Office of NERC Compliance (ONC), Office of Licensing and Compliance (OLC), and Office of New Plant (ONP) services are used by utilities and entities across the United States to help manage the regulatory process to their advantage.
Michelle Thomas, Certrec Corporation, http://certrec.com/, +1 817-738-7661, [email protected]
Share this article