Within the scope of smarter transmission and distribution networks, DSGrid generates new knowledge, new products and new skills, for the establishment of a third generation of substation automation systems and similar infrastructures.

 

This type of systems, totally digital, is characterized by the integration of networks and replacement of analogue signaling subsystems by real time and electronic communications, turning the substation into an advanced integrated platform for automation, control, protection, monitoring and information, from the process to the supervision and maintenance/ managing remote interfaces. Advantages include simplification of installations and processes, flexibility and expandability, interoperability, operation performance, reliability and safety.

 

In the context of a growth and international affirmation strategy from Efacec Automation, as a player of reference in the technology and product development in the automation and energy systems domain, DSGrid contributes to answer to the global challenges related to energy efficiency, energy supply quality and network and systems operational optimization. The results from this project also apply to domains such as “cyberphisycal” critical infrastructures cybersecurity and other functional groups from the Smart Grid (GMS, WAMS, WAMPAC, Feeders Automation, Energy Quality, DER).

 

 

 

 

 

More complexity and change of both the T&D infrastructure and the business models

Increasing demand on refurbishment of substations (developed countries)
paired with risk reduction of new builds (developing countries)

Optimized asset use (profiting from existing resources and assets)

Increased requirements on T&D availability and QoS

Sustainability for O&M: people, skills and supply during the lifecycle
(lifecycle length mismatch between primary and secondary technology)

Increased focus on TCO optimization versus conventional utility investment policies

Project execution with increasing time pressure (lead times)