CHALLENGE:
Communication among devices in power substations is critically important. Systems must be able to transmit information about security, risk factors, and operations in order to function efficiently and without interruption. In the early 2000s, networking technologies were rapidly advancing, but existing communication protocols for power substations were often failing to benefit from the full capabilities of these technologies. And when technologies were integrated into power substations, incompatible systems created market fragmentation, hampered investment in grid modernization, and constrained market growth.
SOLUTION:
IEC 61850 was developed as a global standard for communication between power substation devices, unifying disparate and often proprietary protocols across organizations and international borders. Among other things, IEC 61850 provides the means to integrate communication networking protocols such as Ethernet and TCP/IP, and to network the latest technologies such as intelligent electronic devices. The standard provides a framework that reduces wiring and engineering time, lowering costs and optimizing set-up and maintenance processes.
IMPACT:
The advancements enabled by IEC 61850 led to greater grid reliability and efficiency, lower costs, increased power quality, and faster power restoration after interruptions.
North and South American countries were early adopters of IEC 61850 technology for transmission and distribution networks, later expanding include to power plants and distributed energy resources (DERs). Manufacturers in these regions have also been very engaged in offering IEC 61850 series compliant solutions.
Many European countries and Russia have adopted this standard as well, initially equipping transmission and distribution substations, and furthering its reach to power plants and DERs. China, Korea, Japan, Australia, and many others are also embracing IEC 61850 technologies—with 36 countries participating in total.
As power utilities around the world adopt IEC 61850, the global market for interoperable technologies designed for power substations is constantly expanding. This interoperability has fostered increased end-user uptake and markets, driving global trade.
Source(s):
USNC Current, Volume 12, No. 4 (Winter 2017/2018)
IEC: Find our more about IE 61850
Guidelines:
Case studies will be added to the Standards Boost Business webpage at ANSI’s discretion.