Open Access Same-Time Information System (Formerly Real-Time Information Networks) and Standards of Conduct

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is adding rules establishing and governing an Open Access Same-time Information System (OASIS) (formerly real-time information networks) and prescribing standards of conduct. Under this final rule, each public utility (or its agent) that owns, controls, or operates facilities used for the transmission of electric energy in interstate commerce will be required to create or participate in an OASIS that will provide open access transmission customers and potential open access transmission customers with information, provided by electronic means, about available transmission capacity, prices, and other information that will enable them to obtain open access non-discriminatory transmission service. This final rule requires each public utility subject to the rule to implement standards of conduct to functionally separate transmission and wholesale power merchant functions and the creation of a basic OASIS system. In addition, some of the standards and formats for OASIS nodes are prescribed in a document entitled OASIS Standards and Communication Protocols that is being issued with the final rule. The Commission also is establishing further procedures to complete the standards for displays and formats. The development of OASIS requirements will continue in a Phase II, in which the Commission will continue to develop the requirements for a fully functional OASIS.