Intelligent Substation Automation Systems for Robust Operation of Smart Grids

Substation Automation Systems (SAS) provide reliable bedrock for future smart grid development in electric utilities. Implementation of high quality SAS system enables one to experience less outage rate using the state-of-the-art computerized functions of monitoring, control, and protection. As a result, it can immensely reinforce the reliability index of smart grid systems. However, the inextricable interdependency of cyber and power components in an automated substation creates more vulnerable operation process. In this sense, unlike the power component outage in a substation, a failure of the cyber components in an Ethernet fashion can interrupt the operation as well. Therefore the proper selection of SAS package that offers more reliable performance may hedge massive mal-operation in the system. Since the introduction of multi-vendor SAS based IEC-61850 protocol, the interoperability of various SAS components with variety of manufacturer's brands is now possible. This paper surveys the most efficient and used SAS package and the configuration in a HV substation which leads to high reliable performance. Findings can pave the future smart grid development in an effective manner.