What must BAs that are not members of a FRSG achieve regarding their annual FRM?

BAs (Balancing Authorities) that are not members of a Frequency Regulation Supply Group (FRSG) have specific requirements regarding their annual Frequency Regulation Margin (FRM). Achieving a FRM that is equal to or more negative than the Frequency Regulation Obligation (FRO) is essential because it ensures that these non-member BAs maintain an appropriate level of reserves to respond effectively to frequency regulation needs. This requirement is designed to foster reliability in the power grid by ensuring that all entities, including those outside of regulatory groups, contribute to maintaining the grid's stability.

In this context, achieving a FRM that is equal to or more negative than the FRO means that the BA has sufficient resources allocated to meet its obligations without placing additional strain on the frequency regulation needs of the system. It reflects a commitment to reliability standards and helps ensure that the BA is positioned adequately to support the grid even when it is not aligned with a frequency regulation supply organization.

This requirement aligns with broader regulatory standards that seek to ensure that all balancing authorities adequately support system reliability, acknowledging that even non-member BAs have a role in maintaining the stability of the electric power system.