Black Start Capability and Island Operation Capability

Black start capability and island operation capability are essential prerequisites for system restoration following major disturbances. Pursuant to Section 122(1)(12) ElWG, APG is required to plan and coordinate measures for the restoration of the transmission system. For this purpose, contractual agreements are concluded with power plant operators whose generating facilities are capable of black start and island operation.

The agreements are based on the contractual terms and conditions for providers of system services for system restoration pursuant to Article 4(2)(b) of Regulation (EU) 2017/2196 establishing a network code on electricity emergency and restoration (NC ER). The approved contractual terms and conditions are available here.

Black start capable generating facilities can be started up from a completely shut-down state using their own auxiliary power source and without an external power supply. They form the starting point for the gradual establishment of the first energised subsystems as part of system restoration. Island operation capability refers to the independent operation of a grid or subsystem isolated following separation from the interconnected system, in which at least one generating facility provides the power supply as well as frequency and voltage control. This allows subsystems to be gradually established, operated in a stable manner and subsequently resynchronised with the interconnected system.