Restoration testing and training in Italian ISO

This paper describes the experiences encountered and the procedures adopted during a campaign of field tests that GRTN (the Italian independent system operator (ISO)) performed to check its restoration plan to restore power supply after a massive blackout. Some of the power system components and the restoration strategies involved were known to be critical, so careful planning, including the use of a dynamic power system simulator, preceded the field tests. The results of the analysis prompted the adoption of original solutions that, although unusual for classic restoration techniques, proved to be effective in testing Italian restoration procedures, voltage regulators, and speed governors, without significant disturbance to customers. This should enable the planning of frequent field tests to the advantage of both operators' training and the periodic check of the efficiency of this ancillary service.