Modern Substation Automation Systems

Modem Substation Automation is based on numerical technology applying hardware platforms and software library of functions to multifunctional devices. It covers protection, control, monitoring and data collection aspects. Apart from traditional functionality modem substation automation systems have to fulfil higher functionality in order to make the best use of the high voltage networks, to get better quality of the energy delivery and to facilitate the control and the management of the whole network. The authors explain how specifications should be elaborated today, using a new way of thinking based on a system approach instead of n` a "box to box" method. The specification involving the experts in the different fields have to cover protection, control, monitoring, design, maintenance, etc... The authors present also the fundamental requirements, which distinguish the modem substation automation from a conventional solution and illustrate the cost/performance effectiveness. Moreover, proposals about the project management of modem substation automation systems, especially for the first implementation of such projects, are given. Also the refurbishment of existing substations become more and more important. The authors explain why utilities have to establish a strategy how to proceed taking into account the goals of the company and the status of the different substations. Finally this paper indicates the future trends in the technology (h 1 gher degree of' integration, standardized communication) and in the management of the electrical networks (liberalization and need for better inffirmation).

Keywords:

Substation , Automation , Protection , Control , Specification