Distribution automation system-from design to implementation

CLP Power is implementing a large-scale distribution automation (DA) project which will have approximately 6000 remote terminal units (RTUs) installed in 11 kV customer substations and overhead line pole-mounted switches. The development of the master station will take 2 years and 9 months to complete from the date of contract award to the vendor. In parallel with this development, RTUs are being installed at the rate of about 1000 RTUs per year. This paper describes key activities at various stages of the project including design, system integration, installation, testing and commissioning. In order to realise the DA benefits as early as possible before the commissioning of the master station, an interim system was also commissioned in June 1998.