Automation of HV substations in Iberdrola: experiences and plans

The automation of substations in Iberdrola, has experienced a maturing process during the last decade. During the 1980's Iberdrola built prototype installations. Those trial projects where the basis for the development and generalized application of technically and economically feasible solutions implemented during the 1990's. The paper describes the architecture of current substations detailing the communication system selected and the protocols in use, and summarizes the utility's experience and possibilities for evolution. An overview with examples of the system functionality reviews the protection system reliability, details those functions dependent on the substation communication system, and analyzes the cost reduction opportunities identified.