By Eric Graftaas, MRO Principal Power Systems Engineer, and Summer Stephens, MRO Senior Reliability Specialist
The ERO Enterprise continues to make progress on the Inverter-Based Resource (IBR) Registration Initiative, and many entities with Category 2 IBR facilities are actively engaged in the registration process with some having already completed registration activities. To support this ongoing work and address common questions received from industry, NERC published a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document in December 2025 focused on the Category 2 Generator Owner (GO) and Generator Operator (GOP) registration process.
The FAQ document provides clarity on registration activities that are expected to be completed by May of this year. It consolidates key information related to registration expectations, timelines, and compliance considerations for IBR owners and operators that may be new to NERC and the ERO Enterprise.
Key Topics Highlighted in the FAQ
Several important areas are addressed, including:
- Where to locate the Category 2 GO and GOP definitions and the registration program sections in the NERC Rules of Procedure.
- The role of Regional Entities, like MRO, who collect and review information necessary to complete the registration.
- Common registration scenarios, such as aggregated facilities, phased projects, and evolving GOP arrangements.
- Expectations for entities with facilities located in multiple Regional Entity footprints.
- Category 2 Generating Availability Data System (GADS) reporting requirements that will become effective on May 15, 2026.
In addition, the FAQ highlights a key supporting resource developed by NERC: Reliability Standards Compliance Dates for Generator Owners & Generator Operators. This document is updated quarterly and provides a consolidated list of Reliability Standards that are applicable, or will become applicable, to IBRs and Category 2 GO and GOP entities. This additional resource helps registered entities with IBRs understand future compliance obligations and effective dates.
As Category 2 registration efforts continue across the ERO Enterprise, this important reference helps promote a clear and consistent understanding of registration requirements for entities at all stages of the process. Reviewing the FAQ and related resources can help entities confirm expectations, understand upcoming milestones, and prepare for compliance obligations ahead of May 2026. Questions regarding registration should be directed to: [email protected]