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Project Title: GridCom Monitoring & Control System
Demonstration
Foster-Miller Technologies, Inc., Albany, NY
BACKGROUND
Traditional electric power distribution systems have little or no
monitoring instrumentation. There is potential for system failure
due to overload or inefficient operation as a result of less-than-optimal
tap-changing transformer settings, switched capacitor banks, tie open
point switches, and other controllable devices on distribution feeders.
Identifying and locating faults is often a manual, time-consuming,
expensive process that relies on customer trouble reports and line-crew
inspection. There is a growing need among utilities for sensors and
automated data processing techniques that monitor the distribution
system.
OBJECTIVE
The project objective is to develop and demonstrate a prototype monitoring
and control system for medium-voltage overhead, electric power-distribution
lines. The system will combine low-cost, easy-to-install sensor technology
with software algorithms developed to detect and localize faults, and
to characterize power quality.
DESCRIPTION
GridCom sensors will be installed on distribution lines of New York
State Electric & Gas and Long Island Power Authority. The sensors will
measure instantaneous rms voltage, current, power factor, harmonic content,
and peak voltage or current over a defined time interval. Input from
eight sensors at each host utility will be integrated with the software
to demonstrate the ability to provide real-time monitoring of current
and voltage measurements, and use these data to detect and localize
faults.
BENEFITS
A successful technology demonstration will provide utilities with a
tool to reduce outages, reduce operations and maintenance costs, improve
service to customers, contribute to better management of electric power
distribution, and reduce energy use. Integration of the technology will
enable utilities to provide more efficient, cost effective, and reliable
electric service. Detection and location of faults will allow better
power service through quicker fault condition resolution and correction.
Improved power factor regulation and system balancing can lead to better
equipment utilization and longer service life for cables, transformers,
and other equipment by providing real-time information.
SCHEDULE AND STATUS
A contract was executed and the project is under way
Staff Contact
Joseph Sayer
Sr. Project Manager
ext. 3298
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