If a System Protection Scheme (SPS) or Remedial Action Scheme (RAS) is out for maintenance, what should the transmission operator do?

Operating within designed system limits when a System Protection Scheme (SPS) or Remedial Action Scheme (RAS) is out for maintenance is crucial for maintaining the stability and reliability of the electrical grid. These systems are implemented to automatically manage and mitigate risks, protecting the system from potential disturbances or failures. When they are offline for maintenance, the operator must ensure that the system remains secure and operates safely within the established limits without relying on the automated actions these schemes would typically provide.

Maintaining compliance with system limits during maintenance is essential to prevent overloads or failures that could lead to wider outages or grid instability. This proactive approach helps to ensure that all operations can be safely completed without increasing the risk to the transmission network. By adhering to these limits, operators effectively manage the real-time conditions of the grid and safeguard against potential faults or equipment failures.