Within how many minutes must the Generator Operator notify its associated Transmission Operator of a status change on the AVR, power system stabilizer, or alternative voltage controlling device?

• A. 30 minutes
• B. 15 minutes
• C. 60 minutes
• D. 2 hours

Answer: (A)

Timely communication between the Generator Operator and the Transmission Operator about status changes on voltage-regulating devices is essential for maintaining voltage stability and reliable operation. The required window is 30 minutes because this provides a practical balance: it’s fast enough to ensure the Transmission Operator has prompt visibility to changes that could affect system voltage, yet realistic given plant reporting, diagnostics, and communication processes. A shorter timeframe like 15 minutes would be more demanding and often hard to consistently meet, while longer intervals such as 60 minutes or 2 hours leave the Transmission Operator without timely information to assess and coordinate responses to evolving conditions.