Forty Siemens Bridges Electric Vector automated, group-operated air break switches are included in Austin Energy’s Smart Grid pilot project. The Vector switches are capable of sensing voltage and current and are remotely controlled through supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) in both normally closed and normally open points within the distribution feeders. All switch operations are remotely controlled by a SCADA operator and/or master system software, thereby eliminating the need to operate the devices from the control cabinet. The controller is fully capable of performing automatic sectionalizing operations.
This pilot project plays an integral part in the functional testing of the intelligent grid scheme planned by Austin Energy and its partners.
Highlights of the Austin Energy pilot project include:
— Siemens’ Bridges Electric RCMS remote current monitoring system for fault current detection
— Three-phase voltage sensing on both the source and load sides of the switch for use on normally closed and open points within the distribution system
— Remote supervisory control achieved via a programmable remote terminal unit via DNP 3.0, Level 2 and radio communication.
Necessary current and voltage sensing cables, motor control cable, antenna and antenna cable are also provided by Siemens as part of an integrated solution that allows for a plug-and-play approach as well as a reduction in the utility’s installation costs.
This is Austin Energy’s initial foray into automation, but this municipal utility is certainly no stranger to progressive energy programs.
Siemens understands that a Smart Grid is more than smart meters — it includes integration of renewables, making the transmission network more intelligent as well as automating the distribution network, said Muhammad Sohail, vice president of the high voltage products business unit of Siemens Energy. We’re proud to be the only supplier in the world with products and solutions along the entire energy conversion chain, including those necessary to ensure a successful Smart Grid project.
Siemens provides smart grid solutions along the entire energy conversion chain from planning and consulting to the products and services required to enable the grid to operate intelligently. And Siemens also incorporates solutions for commercial and industrial applications as well as smart homes including building automation, IT systems integration, advanced lighting technology and energy efficient appliances for a comprehensive smart grid solution.
