Which two entities are typically involved in initial notification within the first minutes of a BES disturbance?

• A. Transmission Operator and Generator Operator
• B. Reliability Coordinator and Balancing Authority (as applicable)
• C. Market Operator and System Operator
• D. Reliability Coordinator and Balancing Authority (as applicable)

Answer: (D)

When a BES disturbance begins, the goal is rapid, clear communication to the entities responsible for real-time reliability and balance. The Reliability Coordinator is the central authority for reliability across its footprint and coordinates actions if the disturbance spans multiple control areas, ensuring information flows to all regions that may be affected. The Balancing Authority, which manages generation and load within its own area, needs to be notified immediately so it can adjust generation, interchange, and demand response to stabilize frequency and maintain service in its zone. The “as applicable” qualifier matters because some disturbances may not cross Balancing Authority boundaries or may occur in a region without a BA involvement, but in typical first-minute notifications, both the RC and the BA are engaged to enable swift, coordinated response.