Supervisory control and monitoring of an electric power distribution

Abstract

For decades, the electric power grid remained the same until the advent of Distributed Generation (DG) and the spread of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). Besides, the ancient power grid has become ill-suited to the need of the 21st century. Accordingly, the traditional grid has witnessed radical transformations into Smart Grid. The ancient grid has become smarter and bigger, thus monitoring techniques and controlling technologies are highly needed in order to help it work securely, efficiently and at its best. In this paper, we focus on the importance of the Supervisory Control System (SCS) in Power Distributions. We deployed the SCS in a laboratory test-bed in order to process data, store information, visualize power and energy curves and notify power outages. It is expected that this paper provides a better understanding about Smart Grid concept. An overview of monitoring and management systems is depicted with empathies on SCADA Systems. Metering technologies and features are discussed. Then, the Supervisory Control System through the laboratory test bed is explained.