INTRODUCTION

As a means to improving grid reliability, Generator Maintenance Performance Standards, Assessment Guidelines and a Verification and Audit Process were developed to verify that adequate maintenance programs are being employed by generation asset owners. While it is recognized that unit performance metrics are the truest indicator of the effectiveness of a maintenance program, the metrics are lagging indicators, with a fairly long time constant. Therefore a more timely verification process is needed to provide assurance that such maintenance programs are being employed by generation asset owners. This section describes the methods employed to provide the assurance that maintenance programs, which meet the performance standards approved by the CPUC, are being carried out by generation asset owners. The methods described reflect the principle that the generation asset owners can best assess the manner and effectiveness in satisfying the performance standards, and will improve their maintenance programs and practices through the performance of such assessments. The methods adopted include an initial certification process, periodic re-certifications, or notification of interim significant changes to programs, and a process of both random and triggered audits by CPUC.