Primary substation protection and control system: future architecture proposal

A higher level of digitalization for automation systems is mandatory to achieve the full potential of future digital substations, while also being a key aspect in improving and optimising the TSOs and DSOs business. Therefore, this paper presents the E-REDES perspective on the future architecture for a suitable digital protection and control system for primary substations, as part of the substation automation system. This paper will address a disruptive architecture based on the capabilities and characteristics of the nowadays protection relays, central units, and related trending market solutions. The expected benefits and perceived constraints will be discussed, as well as the final conclusions that are comprehensive on why this paper proposal is suitable for future digital developments at primary substations.