A hands-on learning and training program in power system protection

Postgraduate studies in electrical engineering have been an integral part of specialized training in several areas, such as power system analysis, reliability evaluation, power system control, system protection, material science, analog and digital electronics, signal processing and communications. Most universities provide courses and training in all or some of these disciplines. The University of Saskatchewan has had an active graduate program in electrical engineering since the late 1950s. Training in power system protection is as important, if not more, for engineers working in electric power utility and industrial sectors. It is interesting to note that, in North America, only a few universities offer courses in power system protection at the graduate and/or postgraduate levels. One of the universities that have offered courses for training in the area of power system protection for over thirty years is the University of Saskatchewan. This paper briefly describes the power system protection program offered at the University of Saskatchewan and outlines the facility that is used to provide hands-on experience in designing relays and applying them in utility and industrial environments. A brief account of the development of the courses in the program and the laboratory facilities is also provided.