Black Start Services
Black start service providers are generators that are able to restart their generation facility with no outside source of power. In the unlikely event of a system-wide blackout, black start services are used to re-energize the transmission system and provide start-up power to generators who cannot self-start.
Black start providers are required in specific areas of the AIES to ensure the entire system has adequate start-up power. The AESO currently has contracts in place with various generators across the province to provide this service.
Black Start Resources
AESO Ancillary Services Procurement Process
This document outlines the AESO’s procedure for the procurement of ancillary services.
Operating Policies & Procedures (OPP’s) for Black Start Services
The following OPP makes reference to black start services – a brief description of the OPP is listed below. To access the OPP please view the OPP table of contents. You will be able navigate from the table of contents to the specific OPP listed below.
OPP 1101: Blackstart Restoration
This OPP ensures all Transmission Facilities Owners (TFOs) of the Alberta Interconnected Electric System (AIES), and the ISO, have approved blackstart restoration procedures and processes in place to enable restoration of the entire transmission system in a safe, reliable, coordinated and expedient
manner.