### Question
How does the law define reliable operation?


### Answer
Under *16 U.S.C. § 824o*, **reliable operation** is defined as:

> operating the elements of the bulk-power system within equipment and electric system thermal, voltage, and stability limits so that instability, uncontrolled separation, or cascading failures of such system will not occur as a result of a sudden disturbance, including a cybersecurity incident, or unanticipated failure of system elements

#### Citation:
  - *16 U.S.C. § 824o*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 12-FEDERAL REGULATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF POWER > SUBCHAPTER II-REGULATION OF ELECTRIC UTILITY COMPANIES ENGAGED IN INTERSTATE COMMERCE**

