NERC Compliance
NERC CIP 014-1
With a wide variety of compliance services, our compliance team is ready to address the needs of your organization so you are prepared to meet NERC CIP 014-1. Our extensive background in the electrical sector and technical expertise in risk management enables us to advise on whether your facility is compliant or needs improvements. Services include:
- Advanced Physical Security Vulnerability Assessments
- Advanced Cybersecurity Vulnerability Assessments
- Security Plan Development
- Independent Third Party Verification
Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) Version 5
Our subject matter experts were involved in the development of critical infrastructure protection (CIP) Version 5 and have a unique understanding of the implementation process to help ensure compliance.
We have insight into how NERC expects risk assessments to be performed to determine High, Medium and Low impact for Registered Entities. This insight can take the mystery out of how to comply with the new CIP reliability standards.
Annual Gap Analysis
Through our gap analysis services, we can help you comply with the most current changes to NERC and the Regional Entity Compliance Monitoring and Enforcement Program (CMEP). In addition to finding gaps, we can provide support to help you understand how to close the gaps that exist in your NERC compliance program and documentation.
Mock Audits
A NERC Reliability Standard Audit Worksheet (RSAW) is a guide provided by the electric reliability organization describing types of evidence Registered Entities can use to demonstrate compliance with a reliability standard. Our mock audits help you prepare for Regional Entity audits using statistically sampled data and completion of RSAWs so you are ready for your external audit.
Training Programs
Strong compliance programs require knowledgeable subject matter experts. ABS Group can provide comprehensive staff training on all standards that apply to an organization. We offer on-site and off-site courses specialized to your needs. We go beyond the NERC reliability standards by educating employees on the intent behind the standards.
Policy and Procedure Creation Modification
A strong NERC compliance program begins with an effective Internal Compliance Program (ICP). ABS Group can create an ICP, modify an existing ICP to make the program more robust and help you fine-tune policies, procedures and documentation to reduce uncertainties and increase organizational effectiveness.
Self-Certification
Our experts will keep track of deadlines, submissions and manage the certification process for you. ABS Group can help ensure that the evidence has been reviewed before self-certifications are performed with Regional Entities. We can also provide assistance in response to Request for Information from FERC, NERC and the Regional Entities.
Mitigation Plans
From root cause analysis to incident investigation, ABS Group can assist with mitigation efforts and work with the Regional Entity to obtain approval. We can also go beyond the mitigation plan and negotiate settlements on your behalf with the Regional Entity to eliminate or reduce potential violations penalties.
Maintenance and Testing Program Review
Historically, one of the most violated and difficult standards to comply with has been PRC-005-1. With the new requirements in PRC-005-2, ABS Group helps clients overcome meeting these challenges with our unique Enterprise Asset Management approach. We know what evidence the auditors are looking for and can assist in assembling the evidence necessary to demonstrate compliance.