New challenges in the automation of electric power systems

Abstract

An electric power system is composed by generating, transmission, distribution, and consumers subsystems. As consumption of electrical energy increases the operation of power systems becomes more complex, and more necessary is to have realtime monitoring and remote control of elements such as generators, substations, transmission lines and other physical facilities. This communication explores on new challenges in automation of operational processes originated by the increasing complexity of electric power systems. In particular the application of synchrophasor measurements to opportunately initiate automatic control actions under emergency conditions is briefly discussed.