REP Energy Policy & Regulatory Compliance 3

Question 1

Under NERC reliability standards, what is the purpose of the 'N-1' contingency planning requirement?

Accepted Answer

Ensure the grid can withstand the loss of any single element without cascading failure

Answer

N-1 contingency planning requires that the bulk power system remain stable and within thermal limits after losing any single facility or element.

Question 2

Which federal law governs siting of interstate natural gas pipelines and gives FERC jurisdiction over their approval?

Accepted Answer

Natural Gas Act of 1938

Answer

The Natural Gas Act of 1938 grants FERC authority to approve the construction and operation of interstate natural gas pipelines under Section 7.

Question 3

A community solar project allows subscribers to receive bill credits. Under which regulatory framework are subscriber billing credits typically governed?

Accepted Answer

State public utility commission virtual net metering or bill crediting tariffs

Answer

Community solar billing credits are typically established by state public utility commissions through virtual net metering or specific community solar tariff rules.

Question 4

What is 'avoided cost' in the context of PURPA and why is it significant for renewable energy?

Accepted Answer

The rate utilities must pay qualifying facilities for power, equal to what the utility would have paid for the same power elsewhere

Answer

Under PURPA, utilities must purchase power from qualifying facilities at the utility's avoided cost, providing a guaranteed market for small renewable generators.

Question 5

Which type of environmental review is typically required under NEPA for a utility-scale solar project on federal land?

Accepted Answer

Environmental Assessment (EA) or Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)

Answer

Federal actions, including approving projects on federal land, require NEPA review—typically an EA or full EIS depending on the significance of potential impacts.

(REP) Certified Renewable Energy Professional Practice Test

(REP) Certified Renewable Energy Professional Practice Test

REP Energy Policy & Regulatory Compliance 3