System Reliability

The IESO conducts large-scale integrated emergency exercises to build on Ontario's emergency preparedness. These exercises also help market participants meet their obligations to test their emergency plans. The IESO also offers power system restoration workshops across Ontario.

2021 Workshops

Each year, the IESO hosts hands-on workshops in different areas of Ontario designed for transmitters, generators, distribution companies and connected wholesale customers’ participation. Each workshop features a review of the bulk electricity system, its operation, as well as the roles of the IESO and restoration participants in maintaining system reliability during normal and abnormal conditions and when restoring the power system following large-scale blackouts. Specific interactive table-top exercises are used.

As a result of COVID-19, there will be no in-person workshops scheduled for 2021. In lieu of in-person workshops, the IESO is hosting 4 interactive webinar exercises in 2021.  These exercises will target the same objectives of the in-person workshops, and provide restoration participants with a review of the Ontario Power System Restoration Plan (OPSRP) and the roles of the IESO and restoration participants in maintaining system reliability during normal conditions, abnormal conditions and when restoring the power system following large-scale blackouts. 

Workshop Objectives

The workshops are targeted to real-time operations staff including new and seasoned operators, supervisors, emergency planning and management staff. The purpose is to provide a focused refresher on reliability preparedness and response. This is an IESO-facilitated workshop at which participants are immersed into the Ontario Power System Restoration Plan (OPSRP), among other system operating procedures.

Workshop Format

Following a brief subject matter presentation, using the OPSRP, groups interactively discuss and communicate their role during system restoration. The IESO will also present scenarios, following which participants describe the impact on their facility or operation, how they would respond and who they would coordinate with. IESO staff, including system operators, will facilitate the conversations. The workshops include time for informal discussions and participant networking.

Webinar Dates

IESO Resources

• Ontario Pandemic Planning Influenza Plan for Continuity of Electricity Operations (Updated: March 18, 2020)

• Prolonged Cold Weather Outages - Are You Prepared?
• Ontario Electricity Emergency Plan