DENVER, Colorado — Burns & McDonnell, a 100% employee-owned engineering, construction and architecture firm, has launched FaciliRate, an application designed to assist utilities in meeting the requirements of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s (FERC) Order 881. By automating key processes such as equipment data management, real-time weather integration and ambient adjusted rating (AAR) calculations, FaciliRate helps utilities enhance operational efficiency and maintain regulatory compliance.

“We are excited to begin offering FaciliRate to utilities,” says Jason Mayyak, vice president for Burns & McDonnell. “FERC 881 compliance involves managing large datasets and forecasted temperature calculations, which can be challenging without the right tools. FaciliRate provides a systematic approach to simplify compliance both now and into the future for utilities.”

FERC Order 881 is a regulation introduced to improve the accuracy of transmission line ratings and to increase the utilization of transmission infrastructure.

By integrating advanced features, the platform addresses specific challenges associated with FERC Order 881:

• Comprehensive equipment data management: FaciliRate organizes and maintains an up-to-date database of equipment, providing accurate input for rating calculations. 
• Integration of real-time weather data: The software leverages real-time weather inputs, such as wind speed and temperature, to enhance the precision of line ratings. 
• Automation of AAR calculations: By automating calculations, FaciliRate reduces the potential for errors and improves operational efficiency. 
• Adaptability to evolving standards: FaciliRate supports compliance with current FERC requirements while preparing utilities for potential updates to regulations. 
• Automated Reporting: FaciliRate streamlines compliance by automatically publishing rating reports to ISO/RTO databases with built-in support for the TROLIE protocol, confirming seamless data integration with market operators.

FaciliRate was designed to meet the unique needs of utilities, including dynamic weather integration that incorporates wind speed forecasts and solar position data to support future requirements like dynamic line rating (DLR). Automated workflows streamline AAR calculations, reducing manual effort and saving time. Additionally, the platform is scalable to support utilities of varying sizes and configurations, including those managing bulk electric system (BES) assets.

“FaciliRate is a game-changer for utilities navigating the complexities of FERC Order 881 compliance,” says Samuel Agranoff, product manager for Burns & McDonnell. “By automating critical processes and integrating real-time data, we’re helping utilities remain compliant, optimize operations and improve the reliability of transmission systems.”

Engineering News-Record ranks Burns & McDonnell No. 1 in both Power and Transmission & Distribution.

About Burns & McDonnell

Working from more than 75 offices around the world, Burns & McDonnell designs and builds critical infrastructure. Our family of companies — driven by engineers, construction professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists — delivers projects grounded in safety and a desire to make a difference as we make our clients successful. Founded in 1898, Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned. Learn more.