A network-less automation implementation-case study

Substation automation packages work within the substation to bring the utility information to better run the operation, plan and execute the maintenance and optimize the utilization of equipment. But to accomplish this the utility must access the substation data available and exert the required control through substation equipment over a communications channel between the enterprise and the substation. Substation automation networks homogenize these tasks to allow utility engineers easy remote access to substation SCADA, protection and control. The example of Detroit Edison (DECo) is discussed. DECo relies on a network of leased lines, public switched network (PSN), multiple address system 900 MHz radio (MAS) and some privately owned microwave backbone to serve the utility needs. For substation automation these point at the DECo operations centers and permit limited access corporate wide. The DECo energy management system (EMS) collects load data, equipment status data, events and offers control access. The distribution management system (DMS) provides similar services for distribution substations and pole top devices for the distribution operations centers. The four centers are linked for back-up. EMS backs up everything with an independent port. Data retrieved by these systems is dispersed enterprise wide through an attached server and the corporate WAN.