Operation Codes

​​​​​Network codes and guidelines are binding rules governing connection requirements to the electricity networks in an effective and transparent manner. They were established in 2009 by the EU Regulation on conditions for access to the network for cross-border exchanges in electricity  and recast in 2019 by the Regulation on the internal market for electricity .

The codes are crucial for ensuring the safety of system operation and the efficiency of the European Union's power grid.​

​Operation codes define the processes the transmission system operators (TSOs) must follow to manage the grid operation or when facing an incident. This includes rules on cross-border cooperation and standards for dealing with emergency situations.

To date, two network codes on system operation have been developed:

• The Guideline on Electricity Transmission System Operation (SO Regul​ation) provides the rules and standards to ensure the required level of operational security, frequency, quality and efficient use of the interconnected system and resources.

• The Network Code on Electricity Emergency and Restoration (NC ER) defines the rules to prevent the propagation of an incident, avoiding a blackout state or the worsening of operational conditions. It also allows for an efficient and rapid restoration of the electricity system.​​​