Real time T&D applications at Virginia Power

Advances in the automation of the transmission and distribution (T&D) system at Virginia Power in the 1980s are described. Programs such as supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) and load management using a two-way automatic control system (TWACS) have reduced system losses and increased the reliability of service to the customer. Inhouse support of SCADA software has provided flexibility to meet the changing operating conditions. The discussion covers CAPCON, a capacitor bank control program which was the first process control application written for the SCADA II machines; automation of load tap changer controls; control sequences, particularly for voltage reduction and emergency load curtailment; emergency isolation of network grids; and TWACS.<
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