What should be the first step if a study shows that a single contingency would cause an IROL violation?

In the context of managing the reliability of the electric grid, the first step after a study indicates that a single contingency could lead to an Interconnection Reliability Operating Limit (IROL) violation is to dispatch field personnel to the breaker's substation. This action is crucial as it focuses on addressing potential reliability concerns directly at the site where the violation may occur.

Deploying field personnel allows for a prompt assessment of the situation. They can evaluate the actual conditions at the substation, confirm the operational status of equipment, and facilitate any necessary actions to mitigate the risks associated with the contingency. This might include manual operations, maintenance, or immediate adjustments to system operations to prevent the violation from occurring.

Addressing local conditions and ensuring the reliability of equipment is vital since it helps to ensure that the system can withstand contingencies, maintaining stability and preventing broader implications that can arise from IROL violations. Therefore, this proactive and hands-on approach is essential for effective grid management and continuity of operation.