Category: IT, OT & Market based solutions
Grid Requirement tackled
- To ensure reliable connectivity and facilitate grid automation in substations situated in rural areas where traditional connectivity options such as fiber and mobile networks are unavailable.
- Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology presents a viable option for both primary and secondary substations.
Approach & solution
- Technology : LEO is used to enhance grid control and automation in rural and suburban areas. It offers low-latency communication and global coverage, making it suitable for real-time monitoring, control, and optimization of distribution networks. It also supports remote assistance and safer operations in renewable energy plants by acting as a “digitalization enabler.”
- Maturity Level: The technology is mature and available. It has been successfully piloted and adopted in various geographies.
- Integration with Daily Operations: It can provide reliable connectivity for remote monitoring and control of distribution networks. It ensures continuous communication between smart devices in substations and operative centers, enhancing the efficiency of telecontrol and automation processes.
- CAPEX or OPEX: Initial costs include purchasing and installing satellite antennas and routers (CAPEX), while recurrent costs includes satellite traffic subscriptions and equipment maintenance (OPEX).
- Expected Long-Term Effects: Improved grid reliability and efficiency; Reduced operational costs through remote monitoring and control; Increased digitalization and connectivity in remote areas.
Benefits
- Technological: LEO enables real-time monitoring and control, optimizing the use of existing infrastructure and reducing the need for additional capacity
- Cost Savings: Reduced operational costs through remote monitoring and control, lower maintenance costs, and fewer outages.
- Customers : Improved grid control and automation lead to fewer outages and more stable power supply with faster fault detection and resolution.
- Impact on DSOs: Enhanced Monitoring and Control capabilities to improve the efficiency of grid operations; reduction of Operational Costs associated with on-site inspections, maintenance, and emergency interventions.
- Timelines to deploy and start realising benefits: Short-Term deployment and availability: Solutions are market available, initial deployment and pilot projects can be completed within a few months to a year and some benefits.