The application of an intelligent system to power network operation and control

Recent major increases in the extent and power of the monitoring and control systems applied to power systems have led to a significant interest in the provision of online support to power network control engineers. Expectations of improved network performance which have resulted from these developments can only be met if the increased volume of data acquired is matched by increased capacity to interpret it. This paper describes the progressive development and implementation of a modular decision support system (DSS) for South Western Electricity (SWEB), UK. The authors describe the modules of the DSS, with particular emphasis on the restoration advisory function and its model of the power network, and a case study is discussed. The benefits of the step-by-step implementation process adopted are outlined.