Power system automation involves intelligent electronic devices that collect and transmit energy data. It can be used for conventional and renewable energy, and includes fault detectors, load-disconnect switches, and smart grids. Benefits include reduced costs and fewer outages. Smart meters monitor energy usage and can reduce costs through off-peak usage.
Power system automation generally involves the use of intelligent electronic devices (IEDs) that collect electrical energy data and transmit the information to substations or power plants. Depending on the system configuration, basic networks alert personnel when outages occur and allow switching between power sources. Some communities implement power system automation and control IEDs which include smart grids and smart meters. These units monitor the flow of electricity through the system and to individual subscribers. A power system automation network can also be used for solar or wind energy in addition to conventional electric power.
Pole-mounted or buried IED devices, including fault detectors, load-disconnect switches, reclosers, and automated switching units, transmit information to power plants. Fault detectors can be placed above or below ground and indicate when a malfunction occurs in a particular segment. Load-break switches not only isolate malfunctioning areas, but can also remotely redirect the flow of electricity when needed. Reclosers automatically shut down a segment when a problem occurs. Power plants and substations sometimes have an electrical system automation network that includes circuit breakers that locate faults and redirect the flow of electricity as needed.
Increasingly, communities are integrating smart grids and smart meters into power plant automation. Smart grids improve the overall performance of conventional grids and do not require human intervention in an emergency. The grid automatically reroutes electricity to specific areas in the event of a malfunction and can shut down certain segments to prevent overloads and power surges. Using two-way communication, smart grids can also supplement conventional power supplies with solar or wind energy during peak demand periods, monitoring usage and calculating in advance periods of high demand.
There are many benefits to power system automation. Electric companies usually spend less money on hourly wages, as workers can quickly detect and repair malfunctions. Customers experience fewer outages, and the outages that do occur usually last for shorter periods of time.
Smart meters typically monitor and transmit data on daily energy usage from individual homes to a power plant. Residents also have access to the information, and meters often broadcast information about power disturbances to local stations. Some people use smart meters to monitor stored solar or wind energy. Smart appliances can reduce individual energy costs by operating only during off-peak demand hours.
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