Howard Gugel

Abstract Title

Reliability Impacts of Inverter Based Technology
The rapid interconnection of bulk power system (BPS)-connected inverter-based technology (both generation and load) is the most significant driver of grid transformation and poses a high risk to BPS reliability. The speed of this change continues to challenge grid planners, operators, protection engineers, and many other facets of the electricity sector. Implemented correctly, inverter technology can provide significant benefits for the BPS; however, the new technology can introduce significant risks if not integrated properly. 

Biography

Howard Gugel is the senior vice president of Regulatory Oversight at NERC. In this role, he is responsible for directing programs and processes to monitor, review, and evaluate program effectiveness of the Electric Reliability Organization (ERO) Enterprise’s implementation of risk-based compliance monitoring and enforcement. He is also responsible for overseeing the ERO’s Organization Registration and Certification process,  including the implementation of the FERC-approved expansion of the NERC Registry to include smaller scale inverter-based resources.

In 2022, Mr. Gugel was appointed to the Department of Energy’s Electric Advisory Committee by the Secretary of Energy. He also serves on the North American Energy Standards Board. Mr. Gugel has more than 34 years of experience in the electric utility industry. His background includes management experience in transmission planning, operations, maintenance and energy marketing.

Mr. Gugel earned his bachelor’s and master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Missouri – Rolla. He is a licensed professional engineer in Missouri.

Contact

Howard.Gugel@nerc.net