Topic:"Grid Modernization" in M12619

1 2 In preparing its capital plans, NS Power utilizes its established asset management approach, and 3 considers safety, reliability, climate change adaptation, and affordability, while incorporating the 4 Company’s decarbonization targets...

AI summary NS Power uses an asset management approach to prepare capital plans, focusing on reliability, resiliency, and affordability. The 2026 ACE Plan includes investments in reliability-focused improvements to the T&D system, addressing challenges from severe weather events through vegetation management, storm hardening, and grid modernization.

bility. These targeted reliability projects include vegetation 26 management, storm hardening and reliability upgrades, targeted device replacements, and 27 grid modernization. 28 Date: December 12, 2025 Page 8 of 782 REDACTED REDACTED (CO...

AI summary The 2026 ACE Plan focuses on safety compliance, environmental compliance, and aligning with the coal phase-out and renewable energy goals. It includes projects such as hydro dam safety upgrades, PCB remediation, and grid modernization, and addresses directives from the 2025 ACE Plan Decision.

1 5. The Board directs NS Power to provide an update on the Centre for Energy Advancement 2 through Technological Innovation (CEATI) Grid Resiliency working group in the 2026 3 ACE Plan. 6 Please refer to Section 11.1.4. 4 6. The Board dir...

AI summary The Board has directed NS Power to provide updates and analyses related to several projects and plans, including the Centre for Energy Advancement through Technological Innovation (CEATI) Grid Resiliency working group, pole upgrades, The Path to 2030, and the Mersey Hydro System Redevelopment Project, as part of the 2026 ACE Plan.

CI# Project Title 2026 Budget ($) Project Total ($) General Plant C0082133 IT - Renew Microsoft Enterprise Agreement 1,800,000 1,800,000 This project funds the on-premises portion of the Microsoft Enterprise Agreement for software assuranc...

AI summary The document outlines several IT and infrastructure projects planned for 2026, including the renewal of Microsoft Enterprise Agreement, implementation of distributed intelligence apps, a DERMS solution, and improvements to the Sydney Depot. Each project includes budget allocations and total project costs.

eliver and manage data integrations in a more timely and cost effective manner. C0047278 IT - Oracle MDM Upgrade 4,684,089 7,949,409 The Meter Data Management (MDM) System is nearing end-of-life and requires an upgrade to maintain vendor s...

AI summary The text discusses the need to upgrade the Meter Data Management (MDM) System and the Advanced Distribution Management System (ADMS) to ensure vendor support, cybersecurity, and compatibility with emerging technologies. These upgrades are part of the 2026 ACE Plan and involve significant financial investments.

REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) 2026 ACE Plan CONFIDENTIAL (Attachments Only) 1 9.0 GENERAL PLANT 2 3 General Plant includes information technology (IT), operational technology (OT), computer 4 infrastructure, vehicle replaceme...

AI summary The 2026 Annual Capital Expenditure (ACE) Plan outlines General Plant investments, which include IT, OT, infrastructure, and communication equipment. These investments support NS Power’s digital transformation, regulatory compliance, and operational resilience, aligning with strategic initiatives like grid modernization and cybersecurity.

1 Details regarding the execution of year one of the Five-Year Reliability Plan and anticipated 2 activities in year two can be found in Appendix G. 3 4 The combined benefits of these programs and the positive impacts on the reliability of...

AI summary The document discusses the execution of the Five-Year Reliability Plan, including benefits and anticipated activities. It also outlines the establishment and progress of the CEATI Grid Resiliency Working Group, including survey development, terms of reference, and planning for a resiliency workshop.

General Project Data A. Scope Project Scope of Work Description Defined (D) P P D D D Site Infrastructure (Access, Construction Power, Camp, etc.) Defined (D) NR P D D D B. Capacity Voltage (kV) and Circuits Defined (D) P P D D D C. Projec...

AI summary The document outlines general project data including scope, capacity, location, requirements, technology selection, strategy, and planning for a project. It details the defined and preliminary status of various aspects such as site infrastructure, voltage, environmental monitoring, and logistics planning.

General Project Data A. Scope Project Scope of Work Description Defined (D) P P D D D Site Infrastructure (Access, Construction Power, Camp, etc.) Defined (D) NR P D D D B. Capacity Voltage (kV) and Circuits Defined (D) P P D D D C. Projec...

AI summary The document outlines general project data, including scope, capacity, location, requirements, technology selection, strategy, and planning for a project. Key details cover infrastructure, voltage, environmental monitoring, right-of-way, and logistics planning, with various sections defined or not applicable.

o Section 11.2 of the CEJC, related CIs for General Plant projects include “Work completed on the same asset (application, building, etc.).” • No other projects in 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, or 2028 Depreciation Class: General Plant - Communi...

AI summary This text discusses a project to deploy RTUs as part of the Advanced Grid Modernization program, aimed at improving real-time visibility and remote operability, reducing SAIDI, and enhancing grid resilience. The project aligns with NS Power’s Five-Year Reliability Plan and contributes to improved outage response and system performance.

functionality and reducing time to restore through access to remote operations. Overall, this contributes to sustaining improvements achieved in customer reliability on NS Power’s distribution system. During severe weather events and other...

AI summary NS Power is implementing a project to improve system visibility and enable remote control of switching operations, enhancing reliability and response during severe weather events. This contributes to more efficient operations and faster restoration of services.

the work is completed (January 2026); therefore, the Final Cost Date (June 2027) is listed as six months after the last portion of the work is forecast to be completed). Why do this project this way? This project establishes an effective w...

AI summary The project aims to improve data intelligence on distribution assets using technology and machine learning automation, replacing manual and outdated methods. It is fully funded by the federal government except for administrative overheads and is classified as a Class 1 estimate with a 2% contingency applied for unforeseen issues.

2026 ACE Plan Appendix D Page 65 of 179 Nova ScoƟa Power Inc. Capital Planning & Capital Expenditure JusƟficaƟon Criteria Summary Document Telecontrol and telecommunica ons are essen al for the protec on and control of the Bulk Power Syste...

AI summary Nova Scotia Power Inc. justifies capital expenditures on telecontrol/telecommunications systems for Bulk Power System reliability, compliance with NPCC/NERC standards, and IT investments under technical, economic, and customer experience criteria. These technologies enable system protection, remote monitoring, and alignment with evolving customer needs.

1 6.2.3 Grid Stability & Renewable Integration Resources 2 3 Transitioning from a traditional power system which is largely made up of synchronous generators 4 to a power system which will rely heavily on inverter-based resources (IBRs) su...

AI summary Transitioning to inverter-based resources (IBRs) like wind and solar requires grid stability measures such as synchronous condensers and FACTS devices. NS Power, following DOE directives, prioritizes inertial support projects at Benjamin’s Mill and Wedgeport. The NS-NB Reliability Intertie Project aims to enhance transmission reliability between Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.

. 26 17 4.5 Trimming and Removal of Trees Around Existing Power Lines .......................... 27 18 5.0 STORM HARDENING – TARGETED EQUIPMENT REPLACEMENTS AND 19 UPGRADES .....................................................................

AI summary The document outlines infrastructure upgrades for Nova Scotia's power grid, including tree trimming, storm hardening, equipment replacements, and grid modernization programs. It is part of the 2026 Annual Capital Expenditure (ACE) Plan, focusing on distribution, transmission, and substation improvements.

1 6.1.2 Downline Connectivity ............................................................................. 45 2 6.2 Fault Location Isolation and Service Restoration ................................................. 47 3 6.3 Distributed En...

AI summary The document outlines Nova Scotia Power's 2026 Five-Year Reliability Plan, focusing on storm hardening through vegetation management, corridor widening for distribution/transmission lines, equipment upgrades, and advanced grid modernization programs including connected assets and infrastructure improvements.

............................... 26 18 Figure 13: Map of 2025 Completed and Planned Establishment of New Rights-of-Way ........... 27 19 Figure 14: Trimming and Removal of Trees Around Existing Powerlines - 2025 ....................... 28 2...

AI summary The document outlines NS Power's 2025 infrastructure projects, including rights-of-way establishment, tree trimming, equipment upgrades, and transmission work. It references the Five-Year Reliability Plan update and the 2026 ACE Plan Appendix G, focusing on grid modernization and reliability improvements.

1 Figure 26: In Progress Construction of New Mount Uniacke Substation .................................... 42 2 Figure 27: 2025/2026 Advanced Grid Modernization Progress Overview ................................. 44 3 Figure 28: 2025 Plann...

AI summary The document outlines infrastructure projects and planning for grid modernization, reliability, and expansion in Nova Scotia, including substation construction, remote terminal unit installations, vegetation management, right-of-way widening, and conductor upgrades for 2025/2026.

ments 8 detailed in year one of the Plan. The Plan has a goal of reducing the overall duration and frequency 9 of outages while balancing the affordability of these investments for customers. 10 11 1.1 Five-Year Reliability Plan Commitment...

AI summary NS Power's Five-Year Reliability Plan aims to reduce outage duration and frequency through three core programs: vegetation management, storm hardening, and grid modernization. The plan balances reliability improvements with customer affordability, focusing on infrastructure upgrades and advanced grid technologies.

1 2 As shown in Figure 1 below, NS Power’s Plan includes approximately $1.3 billion of investment 3 in the 2025-2029 period with a commitment to $206 million of investment in 2025 and $234 4 million in 2026. 5 6 Figure 1: Forecast Investme...

AI summary NS Power outlines a $1.3 billion investment plan (2025-2029) targeting grid resilience and reliability improvements, including $206M in 2025 and $234M in 2026. Goals include reducing SAIDI by 20% and achieving 91.98% service restoration within 48 hours post-major events.

1 October 31, there is a 53 percent reduction in customer interruptions and a 29 percent reduction in 2 customer hours of interruption due to device failure in 2025 over 2023 levels. 3 4 The benefits of the program and the impact on the re...

AI summary NS Power outlines reliability improvements through targeted investments, citing a 53% reduction in customer interruptions by 2025. The Board directed NS Power to update its 2025 ACE Plan (M12012) with progress on its Five-Year Reliability Plan, emphasizing risk-based decision-making and grid-modernization upgrades. NS Power agrees with stakeholders on balancing reliability and affordability.

1 2.0 RELIABILITY PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS 2 3 NS Power has developed the Plan to deliver a 20 percent improvement in the performance 4 standards overall average duration of outages (SAIDI) and to achieve the Performance Standards 5 SAIFI targ...

AI summary NS Power's Plan aims to improve system reliability by reducing outages caused by tree contacts and equipment failures, targeting a 20% improvement in SAIDI and achieving a SAIFI target of 2.05 by 2029. Grid modernization, including RTUs and remote connectivity, will mitigate outage impacts and enhance fault isolation.

1 3.0 2025 Overview – Year One of Five Year Reliability Plan 2 3 In 2025, NS Power’s Reliability team has been focused on executing the projects identified in year 4 one of the Plan, with $206.6 million committed to strengthen the grid and...

AI summary NS Power's 2025 reliability efforts focused on $206.6 million in grid upgrades, including distribution system improvements like replacing insulators, conductors, and transformers, as well as tree clearing to enhance resilience against weather events and support growing energy demand.

Distribution 8 kms 8.8 kms 2.0 kms 10.8 kms System Build-To- Roadside Distribution 39 kms 73.7 kms 4.5 kms 78.2 kms System Conductor Upgrades Distribution 50 padmounts 64 padmounts Program 64 padmounts System Complete Underground Upgrades...

AI summary The document outlines grid modernization initiatives, including distribution system upgrades (8.8 km, 73.7 km), conductor and underground upgrades (64 padmounts), transmission line upgrades (37 lines), substation transformer replacements (5 transformers), remote terminal units (11 devices), and fault isolation/service restoration systems (24 devices). Projects span multi-year execution with some components ongoing through 2026.

, as well as improve 9 worker and public safety. The PCB program exemplifies this approach and continues to progress 10 on schedule, remaining compliant with federal regulations and timelines. 11 12 5.1.2 Power Line Protective Devices 13 1...

AI summary The document discusses NS Power's 2025 recloser installation plan, highlighting progress on seven new devices to improve grid reliability by reducing outage frequency and duration. Three reclosers are completed, with four remaining for installation, targeting key regions like Canso, Merigomish, and Glace Bay.

2026 ACE Plan Appendix G Page 43 of 71 NS Power Five-Year Reliability Plan - Update Non-Confidential 1 6.0 ADVANCED GRID MODERNIZATION PROGRAMS 2 3 2025-2029 Forecast Investment: $78 million 4 Forecasted Performance Standards SAIDI Reducti...

AI summary NS Power's Advanced Grid Modernization Program (2025-2029) aims to enhance grid reliability and efficiency through three initiatives: Connected Assets (real-time device control), FLISR (automated outage response), and DER integration. The $78 million investment targets a 0.06-0.11 SAIDI reduction.

2026 ACE Plan Appendix G Page 44 of 71 NS Power Five-Year Reliability Plan - Update Non-Confidential 1 Figure 27: 2025/2026 Advanced Grid Modernization Progress Overview Program Devices Remaining Devices On Track Complete Forecast 2025/202...

AI summary NS Power's 2025-2029 grid modernization plan includes $65M investment, with $21M allocated to Remote Terminal Units (RTUs). As of 2025, six of 11 RTUs are installed, with two more targeted for completion by year-end. The plan emphasizes real-time monitoring and outage response improvements through advanced grid technologies.

RTUs planned for deployment in 2025. The remaining units are in progress and remain a priority 18 to have two completed before year-end, and the final three installations to be completed early in Page 44 of 71 Date: December 12, 2025 Page...

AI summary NS Power outlines its 2025 RTU deployment plan, with Phase 6 under regulatory review. The company emphasizes its commitment to the Board's oversight in ensuring project value for customers. Progress updates include completed and on-track installations across multiple substations, with final installations targeted for early 2026.

2026 ACE Plan Appendix G Page 46 of 71 NS Power Five-Year Reliability Plan - Update Non-Confidential 1 2 As outlined in NS Power’s Five-Year Reliability Plan, establishing a communications path 3 between downline reclosers and the Advanced...

AI summary NS Power's 2025/2026 reliability plan emphasizes integrating 35 downline reclosers with the Advanced Distribution Management System (ADMS) to improve outage response, reduce restoration delays, enhance asset visibility, and improve worker safety through remote SCADA operations.

ion status of these communication paths and identifies the specific devices and feeders 11 involved. 12 13 Figure 29:2025/2026 Planned Communications Path with Downline Reclosers Installation

AI summary The text discusses the current status of communication paths, identifying involved devices and feeders, and references a figure detailing the 2025/2026 planned communications path with downline reclosers installation.

2026 ACE Plan Appendix G Page 48 of 71 NS Power Five-Year Reliability Plan - Update Non-Confidential 1 reliability and operational flexibility. To address these challenges, enhanced visibility, automation, 2 and control of DERs is importan...

AI summary NS Power's 2026 ACE Plan Appendix G discusses the integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) to enhance grid reliability and decarbonization. It highlights the DERMS project, stakeholder engagement, and alignment with Nova Scotia's 2030 Clean Power Plan, emphasizing coordinated DER management for system resilience.

2026 ACE Plan Appendix G Page 49 of 71 NS Power Five-Year Reliability Plan - Update Non-Confidential 1 7.0 2026 – YEAR TWO – FIVE-YEAR RELIABILITY PLAN 2 3 2026 is year two of the Five-year Reliability Plan. NS Power has committed to an ov...

AI summary NS Power's 2026 reliability plan allocates $234 million for grid improvements, including storm hardening ($178.9M), vegetation management ($45M), and advanced grid modernization ($10.7M). This follows $206M in 2025 and over $185M annually in prior years, focusing on corridor widening, ROW establishment, and tree trimming.

TS AND 4 UPGRADES 5 6 2026 Forecast Investment: $178.9 million 7 8 7.2.1 Distribution System Equipment Upgrades and Replacements 9 10 2026 Forecast Investment: $83.9 million 11 12 7.2.1.1 Modernize and Replace Aging Equipment 13 14 NS Powe...

AI summary NS Power plans $83.9M in 2026 for distribution upgrades, including PCB replacement and 7.1km of line relocation to roadside to improve reliability. Modernization efforts align with federal regulations and prioritize infrastructure renewal based on inspection data.

1 7.2.1.4 Distribution System Underground Upgrades 2 3 In 2026, a planned investment of $10.2 million will support the Distribution Underground 4 program, aimed at strengthening and modernizing NS Power’s underground electrical system. Thi...

AI summary NS Power plans a $10.2M 2026 investment in underground distribution upgrades, including cable replacement in Kentville, SCADA-enabled switch installation in Halifax, and a high-capacity ductbank with QEII Health Sciences Centre. These projects aim to enhance system reliability, reduce outages, and support infrastructure growth in high-density areas.

y with additional substations in the Wellington, Stillwater, Bridgewater and Dartmouth 12 communities. Engineering and procurement activities for these new substations will continue in 13 2026. 14 15 7.3 ADVANCED GRID MODERNIZATION PROGRAM...

AI summary NS Power is expanding its grid modernization efforts in 2026, including the installation of new substations in Wellington, Stillwater, Bridgewater, and Dartmouth, as well as the implementation of advanced telecommunications connectivity to enhance grid reliability.

al 1 replacement of RTUs and enhanced communications with distributed protection equipment, 2 strengthening real-time visibility, operational responsiveness, and overall system reliability. 3 4 7.3.1.1 Remote Terminal Units (RTUs) 5 6 In 2...

AI summary NS Power plans to replace and upgrade end-of-life RTUs in 2025 and 2026 to improve grid reliability, with a focus on enhancing real-time visibility and operational resilience. Additionally, efforts will continue to expand connectivity to downline devices by integrating advanced telemetry and remote control capabilities.

nline 16 devices. In 2026, the focus will continue to be on integrating advanced telemetry and remote 17 control capabilities into intelligent field equipment, as outlined in Figure 45 below. 18 Page 63 of 71 Date: December 12, 2025 Page 7...

AI summary The text discusses the integration of advanced telemetry and remote control capabilities into intelligent field equipment as part of the 2026 focus, as outlined in Figure 45, which shows the 2025/2026 planned communications path with downline reclosers installation.

In Design. Metro Kearney Lake (multiple devices) Planned for 2026 Execution 137H In Design. Metro Hammonds Plains (multiple devices) Planned for 2026 Execution 2H In Design. Metro Armdale (multiple devices) Planned for 2026 Execution 104H...

AI summary NS Power is advancing grid modernization through the deployment of FLISR technology, which automates fault detection and service restoration, as part of its Five-Year Reliability Plan Update. The implementation follows a structured, multi-step approach.

2026 ACE Plan Appendix G Page 65 of 71 NS Power Five-Year Reliability Plan - Update Non-Confidential 1 • Device Deployment: The first phase involves ensuring the necessary field devices are in 2 place. While most of the required devices al...

AI summary NS Power's Five-Year Reliability Plan Update outlines three phases of FLISR implementation: device deployment, connectivity enablement, and FLISR configuration. These projects are targeted for completion by the end of 2026 and are currently under consideration by the NSEB under matter M12417.

ion 104H In Design. Metro Kempt Rd (multiple devices) Planned for 2026 Execution 2 3 7.3.3 Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) 4 5 As the presence of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) such as solar, wind, and battery storage 6 continues...

AI summary The document discusses the importance of managing Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) such as solar, wind, and battery storage to maintain grid reliability and efficiency. NS Power plans to implement a DERMS platform through a capital work order in 2026 to enhance grid resilience and intelligence.

2026 ACE Plan Appendix G Page 67 of 71 NS Power Five-Year Reliability Plan - Update Non-Confidential 1 8.0 CONCLUSION 2 3 NS Power’s Five-Year Reliability Plan represents a significant, sustained commitment to 4 improving system reliabilit...

AI summary NS Power’s Five-Year Reliability Plan outlines a commitment to improving system reliability and resilience through targeted investments, including vegetation management and grid modernization. The plan aims to achieve a 20 percent improvement in SAIDI by 2029 while maintaining affordability and transparency with stakeholders.

e efforts, NS Power will deliver a stronger, more resilient 22 grid capable of meeting the challenges of climate change, supporting electrification, and improving 23 the customer experience. 24 Page 67 of 71 Date: December 12, 2025 Page 77...

AI summary NS Power outlines efforts to enhance grid reliability through its Five-Year Reliability Plan, including updates on distribution feeders and work completed or in progress on 2025 priority feeders.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 Request IR-9: 2 - 3 With respect to Figure 43, please provide the number of meters actually procured for 2022- - 4 2025 along with the 2026 procurement count shown in Figure 43 in an excel spreadsheet, and - 5 provide a...

AI summary The response to Request IR-9 provides an annual summary of meter procurement numbers for 2022-2025 and the 2026 procurement count, along with a narrative explanation of trends in quantity or type of meter.

2026 Annual Capital Expenditure (ACE) Plan (NSEB M12619) NSPI Responses to Consumer Advocate Information Requests 1 Request IR-23: 20 (including those outside regular business hours) resource availability, and complexity of 21 repairs. The...

AI summary The 2026 Annual Capital Expenditure (ACE) Plan outlines NSPI's efforts to reduce large-scale and long-duration outages through targeted equipment upgrades, vegetation management, and grid modernization, particularly in remote areas. These investments aim to improve reliability and reduce customer interruptions.

\ \ Increase driven by CI 47124 - Advanced Metering Infrastructure project. 1 Request IR-4: 26 Integration project, and finally, an increase of $2 million is due to the inclusion of the Storm 27 Management Software Implementation project....

AI summary The increase in costs is driven by the Advanced Metering Infrastructure project (CI 47124) and the inclusion of the Storm Management Software Implementation project. The increase is attributed to delayed deliveries of line trucks since the onset of COVID and increased costs of line trucks and passenger vehicles. There is also a concern about passing on cyber security incident costs to ratepayers and the implementation of accounting ring-fencing measures.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 (d) The overall coordination of the transition is being supported by the project management 7 funding is "expected, the amount cannot be forecast at this time." 8 9 (a) For 2026-2030, please identify each source of exter...

AI summary The text discusses the coordination of a transition through project management and outlines external funding sources for 2026-2030, including the Energy Storage project and Grid Modernization Initiatives. It also references the 2026 ACE Plan and seeks reconciliation of figures within the 2026 Application.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 Request IR-1: 2 3 General Inquiries and Follow-Up pages 7 to 30 4 5 Page 8 notes that the targeted reliability projects include vegetation management, storm 6 hardening and upgrades, device replacements and grid moderniz...

AI summary The document includes a request (IR-1) asking to identify targeted reliability projects such as vegetation management and grid modernization from specific sections of the filing. The response refers to Attachment 1 for details.

reet Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Street Str...

AI summary The text includes a partially redacted address, a reference to a document number (C0068718), and details about a project titled 'IT - DERMS Solution Project' with a cost of $857,294, categorized under 'Advanced Grid Modernization' and related to 'DERs' (Distributed Energy Resources) under 'General Plant'.

2026 ACE Plan NSEB IR-7 Attachment 1 Page 1 of 1 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) CI# Project # Project Long Title Invesment Trigger 7 about the project to develop a fulsome application. 8 9 • Five projects were IT projects that...

AI summary The document outlines various projects and their investment triggers, including IT projects delayed due to a cyber incident, grid modernization initiatives, substation additions, and deferred projects such as the Synchronous Condenser and Sydney T&D Depot. These delays and deferrals are due to resource constraints, scope definition, and temporary arrangements.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL 2026 ACE Plan Condition Inputs 26 As of the date of this IR response, CEATI has not yet finalized the Terms of Reference for 27 the Grid Resiliency Working Group. CEATI continues to incorporate member utility input 28 coll...

AI summary The text discusses the 2026 ACE Plan and the status of the Grid Resiliency Working Group, noting that the Terms of Reference have not been finalized but work continues. It also references a response to IR-47, which asks NS Power to describe alternative reliability metrics considered and why they are not currently viable.

4.1.2/

AI summary The section discusses the regulatory process and related topics, including energy efficiency programs, demand-side management, and the integration of renewable energy resources into the grid. It addresses compliance with legislation and the role of various stakeholders in the proceedings.

2026 Annual Capital Expenditure (ACE) Plan (NSEB M12619) NSPI Responses to NSEB Information Requests 1 (f) This project will be completed leveraging both internal resources and specialized external 1 control, a system operator could then t...

AI summary The project aims to enhance remote monitoring and control capabilities for system operators by installing RTUs and SCADA systems at certain sites. This allows for quicker response to emergencies by disconnecting affected feeders, reducing customer outages. No changes are made to substation protection schemes or relay configurations.

(b) "Regular" refers to Regular Administrative Overhead, also known as Labour AO. NS Power has three types of AO Rates, which are calculated in accordance with Board- 1 approved Accounting Policy 6230 – Application of Administrative and Ve...

AI summary The text discusses NS Power's Regular Administrative Overhead (Labour AO) and references a capital submission related to the ECC Dynamic Line Rating Implementation under matter M12592. It also mentions the expectation of customer benefits from the project and a request to refer to Appendix G of the Application for information on Grid Modernization Programs.

Q: Is there a potential for further efficiency improvements in distribution routine work? A: Yes. One area is with contractor management. In its May 2025 report, NS Power states: Scheduling and dispatch of work for pole-setting contractors...

AI summary The response confirms potential for efficiency improvements in distribution routine work, particularly through better contractor management and technology upgrades. Initial challenges with training and tool adoption have hindered immediate benefits, but ongoing efforts are in place. Reference is made to past proceedings and IT upgrades that may reduce costs in areas like vegetation management and equipment tracking.

Q: Are there topics from the Path to 2030 Report that you wish to discuss? A: Yes. I am concerned that there has not been adequate stakeholder consultation regarding the Synchronous Condensers (ECEI) project (C0072808). The synchronous con...

AI summary The respondent is concerned about insufficient stakeholder consultation on the Synchronous Condensers (ECEI) project (C0072808). The project was first introduced in the 2025 ACE Plan with a budget of $244 million, but the Path to 2030 Report does not adequately reflect recent developments, such as the increased budget of $365 million for up to 9 units.

Readiness (FAASSTeR) meeting, Orlando, FL, November 2017. - "Making the Most of the Power Plant Market: Best Practices for All-Source Electric Generation Procurement," Southeast Energy and Environmental Leadership Forum, Nicholas Institute...

AI summary The document lists various presentations and meetings related to energy policy, load forecasting, and power generation practices, highlighting topics such as resource adequacy, real-time pricing, and the transition in power demand trends.

2025 ACE Carryover Spending - as of December 31, 2025 Project 2025 ACE Plan 2025 ACE Plan Amount C0043010 2022/2023 Wood Pole Retreatment Program 79,470 656,597 - (79,470) C0031268 AMO Critical Equipment Online Monitoring 34,543 432,380 53...

AI summary The document presents a detailed breakdown of the 2025 ACE Carryover Spending as of December 31, 2025, outlining various projects, their planned and actual spending, and variances. It includes initiatives such as the Wood Pole Retreatment Program, Advanced Metering Infrastructure, and multiple transmission and distribution projects.

M12619 - 2026 Annual Capital Expenditure Plan Opening Statement of Nova Scotia Power Incorporated Provided by Dave Pickles, Chief Operating Officer, Nova Scotia Power Incorporated Thank you, Chair and Members of the Board, for the opportun...

AI summary Nova Scotia Power Incorporated's 2026 Annual Capital Expenditure Plan (ACE Plan) proposes $702 million in capital spending, with a focus on improving reliability, safety, and preparing for the future. Investments include vegetation management, infrastructure upgrades, and storm hardening to reduce outages and enhance grid resilience.

g the transmission and distribution system, and adopting modern technologies that enable faster outage detection, isolation, and restoration, all aimed at building a more resilient grid for customers. We also welcome the Board-appointed th...

AI summary The document discusses investments in grid resilience, including modern technologies for outage management, third-party review of the Reliability Plan, and the 2026 ACE Plan's Path to 2030 Update. It highlights grid-scale battery storage projects and the Wasoqonatl Transmission Inc. partnership for new interconnections.

Chris Milligan ([email protected]) 1 Undertaking U-5: C0060751 2024 Manhole Automatic Pumps Storm Hardening - Targeted Equipment Replacement and Upgrades Special Capital $ 18,495 $ 74,285 $ 55,790 - C0060003 AMO 85S Thermal Camera...

AI summary The document outlines various capital projects undertaken by Nova Scotia Power, including storm hardening initiatives, grid modernization efforts, and compliance projects. It details the costs and financial status of each project, highlighting expenditures and variances.

2.2.4 C0080111 – 2026 RTU Deployment [28] This project will install 21 new Remote Terminal Units (RTU) in substations throughout Nova Scotia over the next three to four years. The RTU and telecom will be installed at substations that curre...

AI summary This project involves the installation of 21 new Remote Terminal Units (RTU) in Nova Scotia substations over the next three to four years. The RTUs will improve system visibility and remote operability, enabling faster emergency response and outage resolution. The project aligns with NS Power's Advanced Grid Modernization program and its Five-Year Reliability Plan goals.

2.2.4.1 Findings [32] As noted by NS Power, this project will add remote monitoring (i.e. visibility) and control (i.e. SCADA – Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) for the system operator for the sites where new RTU are installed. NS...

AI summary The Board acknowledges the benefits of installing RTUs for remote monitoring and control but is concerned about the lack of quantified benefits, the limited customer impact (3.6% of total customers), and the fact that RTUs do not enhance immediate fault-clearing capabilities. The project is not approved at this time due to pending reviews and insufficient benefit quantification.

Storm Hardening with Targeted Equipment Replacements and Upgrades [124] This involves replacing aging equipment, rebuilding lines, modernizing substations, strengthening transmission infrastructure and installing advanced protective device...

AI summary The text discusses storm hardening initiatives involving equipment replacements, line rebuilding, substation modernization, and installation of advanced protective devices to enhance grid resilience.

Advanced Grid Modernization Programs [125] The final area of focus involves deploying advanced monitoring and control systems for faster outage detection and restoration, implementing automated service restoration to improve response time...

AI summary The focus is on deploying advanced monitoring and control systems to improve outage detection and restoration, implementing automated service restoration to enhance response times, and expanding telecommunications for better grid management.

cations include the removal of multiple trees. - Addition of six RTUs improving substation communication and control, supporting quicker response and restoration of service in the event of an outage. - Completed replacement of two substati...

AI summary The document outlines various infrastructure improvements including the addition of RTUs, transformer replacements, substation upgrades, and transmission line reconductoring aimed at enhancing system reliability and grid resilience.

Request IR-1: - Page 8 notes that the targeted reliability projects include vegetation management, storm - hardening and upgrades, device replacements and grid modernization. Please identify the - projects that would fall under these categ...

AI summary The document requests the identification of targeted reliability projects, such as vegetation management and grid modernization, from the Routines in section 10 and individual Capital Investments across Generation, Transmission, Distribution, and General Plant.

Request IR-46: - Page 97 addresses the Board's 2025 ACE Plan directive to provide an update on the Centre for - Energy Advancement through Technological Innovation (CEATI) Grid Resiliency working group - in the 2026 ACE Plan application. -...

AI summary Request IR-46 seeks an update on the Centre for Energy Advancement through Technological Innovation (CEATI) Grid Resiliency working group's activities since the 2026 ACE Plan application, including the status of the Resiliency Benchmarking Survey and a discussion paper on Transmission System Resiliency, as well as the approval status of the final terms of reference for the working group.

Request IR-132: - Board staff analysis of Attachment 1 reveals that the utility worked on 71 feeders, totaling 753 km. - Out of these 71 feeders, 23 feeders, totaling 215 km, maintained, or worsened, their original - ranking even after veg...

AI summary The document requests information about the cost and effectiveness of 2024 vegetation management work on 21 feeders, including why some feeders' condition scores worsened and the impact on SAIDI and SAIDFI metrics.

GP01 C0080111, 2026 RTU Deployment

AI summary The document discusses the 2026 RTU Deployment, focusing on the planning and implementation of remote terminal units in Nova Scotia's power grid. It involves considerations related to infrastructure planning, grid modernization, and the integration of advanced metering infrastructure.

GP02: C0080252, Intelligent Asset Data Capture & Integration Platform

AI summary The document outlines the submission for an Intelligent Asset Data Capture & Integration Platform under the proceeding GP02: C0080252. It involves the integration of asset data for better management and reliability, with potential implications for grid modernization and infrastructure planning.

Request IR-174: - The transmission planning team, along with the system security team, have been collaborating to - ensure the control system design parameters of the new inverter-based resources (IBRs) aid in - maintaining the stability o...

AI summary The document outlines a request concerning the control system design parameters of new inverter-based resources (IBRs) and their impact on grid stability. It asks whether the configuration of these parameters will increase costs and who would bear those costs.

Appendix I Completed Transmission Line Replacement and Upgrade Projects page 782

AI summary This section of the document provides an overview of completed transmission line replacement and upgrade projects in Nova Scotia. It outlines the progress made in modernizing the electricity grid to ensure reliability and efficiency.

Request IR-9: - Refer to the Application, Appendix G, Page 751 of 782, Lines 1-20, Section 6.0 Advanced Grid - Modernization Programs. - a) Please explain whether and how the investments in the Grid Modernization Programs, including FLISR,...

AI summary The document contains several regulatory requests (IR-9 through IR-12) related to grid modernization, capital spending, and energy storage projects by NS Power. The requests seek clarification on how investments impact grid capacity, the status of new ROW projects, the meaning of figures in capital spending summaries, and the approval status of a working group related to grid resiliency.

vent scheduled for February 3, 2026, as described in this event link below: 1. Please confirm whether the DLR Deployment project that NS Power will present at Distributech, described as the largest undertaken in North America, is included...

AI summary The text includes questions regarding NS Power's upcoming presentation on the DLR Deployment project, the benefits of the Dynamic Line Rating upgrade, oversight under IESO Nova Scotia, and grid modernization programs. It also references specific sections of the Application and asks about the impact of these investments on customer demand and system capacity.

Request IR-5: Topic: Cyber Attack a) Please confirm that no portion of the costs associated with the recent cyber security incident is being passed to ratepayers through this application. b) Explain the accounting "ring-fencing" measures i...

AI summary The document includes requests related to cybersecurity costs, ring-fencing measures, and grid services, specifically synchronous condensers. It also asks for a table detailing hydro system investments, production capacity, and production volume over the past ten years.

19 Request IR-9: 20 21 With respect to Figure 43, please provide the number of meters actually procured for 2022-2025 22 along with the 2026 procurement count shown in Figure 43 in an excel spreadsheet, and provide a 23 narrative explanati...

AI summary The request asks for the number of meters procured for 2022-2025 and the 2026 procurement count from Figure 43, along with an explanation of any significant trends in quantity or type of meter.

ng event that causes the activities described in (c) to occur, and 5. The reason for the difference in practice or process between the PDM element and the activity described in (c). Request IR-9: With respect to Figure 43, please provide t...

AI summary The text contains several regulatory requests related to meter procurement, outage statistics, project updates, and procurement processes. These requests aim to obtain detailed data, explanations, and documentation for transparency and oversight in the regulatory proceeding.

2.2.4 C0080111 – 2026 RTU Deployment [28] This project will install 21 new Remote Terminal Units (RTU) in substations throughout Nova Scotia over the next three to four years. The RTU and telecom will be installed at substations that curre...

AI summary This section discusses the 2026 RTU Deployment project by NS Power, which involves installing 21 new Remote Terminal Units (RTU) in Nova Scotia substations to improve grid visibility and emergency response times. The project supports the Advanced Grid Modernization program and aims to enhance grid resilience and reliability by enabling faster fault detection and outage resolution.

2.2.4.1 Findings [32] As noted by NS Power, this project will add remote monitoring (i.e. visibility) and control (i.e. SCADA – Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) for the system operator for the sites where new RTU are installed. NS...

AI summary The NSEB acknowledges the benefits of installing RTUs for remote monitoring and control but is concerned about the lack of quantified benefits for the project, which serves only 3.6% of customers. The Board also notes that RTUs are not the primary fault-clearing system and has decided not to approve the project until the Five-Year Reliability Plan is reviewed and benefits are quantified.

Advanced Grid Modernization Programs [125] The final area of focus involves deploying advanced monitoring and control systems for faster outage detection and restoration, implementing automated service restoration to improve response time...

AI summary The final area of focus involves deploying advanced monitoring and control systems for faster outage detection and restoration, implementing automated service restoration to improve response time, and expanding telecommunications for better grid management.

[126] NS Power forecasted the following spending over the five-year period in its original plan. This was again provided in the Company's 2026 update. Reliability Program 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 Total Plan Storm Hardening - Targeted Equip...

AI summary NS Power provided a five-year spending forecast for its reliability programs, including Storm Hardening, Vegetation Management, and Advanced Grid Modernization, with total planned expenditures reaching $1,259.3 million.

7.1.1 Coordination with the IESO Nova Scotia [201] In a letter dated October 9, 2024, the Minister of Energy directed NS Power "…to provide the equipment and systems necessary to maintain the stability, reliability, and power quality of th...

AI summary The Minister of Energy directed NS Power to ensure grid stability for renewable energy integration, including the use of synchronous condensers. The IESO is expected to lead competitive procurement for transmission and system resources, as outlined in the More Access to Energy Act.

NS POWER PANEL 89 Cr-ex, (Murphy) 1 that would benefit the future load forecasting. 2 Historically, we've seen using information such as housing 3 starts, that this would be somewhat of a proxy for have 4 not shown to be an accurate reflec...

AI summary The discussion focuses on the limitations of using historical data like housing starts for load forecasting and the adequacy of current data sources such as AMI for distribution planning and cost allocation. The speaker emphasizes that existing data is sufficient for planning and that cost allocation methods would remain unchanged.

NS POWER PANEL 123 Cr-ex, (Powell) 1 associated impact and it does have an impact on SAIDI and 2 SAIFI. And so what this is highlighting is that those 3 cumulative impacts and those cumulative stressors on the 4 system, despite those that...

AI summary The text discusses the impact of vegetation management and grid modernization on reducing outages caused by tree contact and adverse weather. It references Exhibit N-3 and mentions that 40% of average weather outages are due to tree contact, with vegetation management expected to reduce these outages.

NS POWER PANEL 135 Cr-ex, (Powell) 1 Q. And just so I'm clear, while you 2 mentioned that the I think it was the AMI isn't 3 configured to do it, but that you could pull that 4 information we're talking about from those devices down 5 the...

AI summary The discussion revolves around the configuration of AMI devices and their ability to retrieve specific information. It also addresses the preference for momentary outages over sustained outages, with a focus on customer impact and the lack of specific polling data on customer preferences.

NS POWER PANEL 345 Cr-ex, (Mahody) 1 THE CHAIR: Right. So we're talking 16 Q. All right. And so in this 17 description: 18 19 20 This project will install 21 new Remote Terminal Units (RTUs) in substations throughout Nova Scotia over the n...

AI summary The document discusses the installation of 21 new Remote Terminal Units (RTUs) in Nova Scotia substations over the next three to four years, with an estimated cost of $8.3 million. The discussion references an ongoing Board matter, M12550, which is examining the RTU Replacement Program, and notes a cost of approximately $361,000 per RTU in that matter.