Smart Transmission and Distribution Systems
Integrating modern protection, automation and control solutions for the utility future
As the energy industry evolves, it is driving the smart-enabled utility of the future—where power system protection and substation instrumentation, controls, and automation are becoming an ever more important issue for utilities. KEMA is actively engaged with utility clients worldwide to enhance transmission and distribution (T&D) system reliability, security and performance.
The emerging modern smart grid and its enabling technologies offer promise of a more reliable, secure, and sustainable energy future. On the T&D side, the smart grid vision includes integrating distributed and renewable generation sources and building-in advanced, “self-healing” capabilities to detect and respond to system disturbances.
Power system planning, management and operations for the twenty-first century
Utilities are envisioning multiple scenarios of the future to make solid business decisions today. KEMA helps clients navigate this complex decision-making process. We offer more than 80 years of T&D expertise, objective knowledge, and analytical resources. We are focused on helping to further the energy industry’s and utilities’ understanding and application of emerging T&D technologies.
KEMA partners with clients to assess and enhance the adequacy, security, and reliability of their T&D systems, through developing and implementing strategic plans, and evaluating and validating smart grid and automation technologies. We help clients bring their visions for the utility of the future to life through innovative management, operations and technical solutions.
Whole-system view for successful implementation of projects, effective risk management
The key to successful integration of modern protection, automation and control, and emerging T&D technologies, while managing risks, is taking a whole-system, whole-enterprise view. Based on a keen understanding of both the technical and business implications of utility decisions, KEMA offers independent insight and expertise on a full range of power system technologies, including:
System protection upgrades – The backbone of a sustainable, reliable smart grid is a fully integrated system protection design.
Substation and distribution automation integration – Advanced automation makes near real-time data available, which opens a whole host of control possibilities.
Data communication standards – IEC 61850 is the NIST standard for smart grid interoperability, as it relates to metering, protection, controls, health monitoring, and switching devices.
Communication performance, compatibility and testing – Today’s smart grid initiatives have given rise to multiple technologies from a growing number of vendors. A smart T&D system must have the ability to realize seamless end-to-end integration that is sustainable as technology advances.
Advanced power electronic applications – Power electronics are needed to interconnect large amounts of distributed renewable energy sources and to implement smarter, more reliable and secure electric energy networks.