(v) higher performance at lower cost has resulted in a fast acceptance of the new
technology
(vi) the trend of system integration will continue, driven by the cost pressure of
competition and technological progress
(vii) the ongoing development towards totally integrated substations is expected
to pickup speed with the approval of the open communications standard
IEC 61850 in the next few years.
W.J. Laycock [27] has recently written an interesting and thought provoking article
on intelligent networks, covering:
(i) the development of existing networks
(ii) the need for more intelligence
(iii) future developments and opportunities.
He discusses how engineers and managers in diverse locations are being challenged
to find solutions that will simultaneously drive down cost and encourage better utilisation
of distribution sector assets by the development of intelligent networks. Some
strategic issues raised by Laycock will now be briefly touched on and are reproduced
below, including the application of intelligence, centres of advanced intelligence,
network services, protection intelligence and drivers for the future (see also Tables 9.1
and 9.2 and Figures 9.12–9.15). (The reader is directed to the original article for fuller
treatment.)
Figure 9.12 illustrates a classical MV distribution network which may include
SCADA and FPIs but the presence onsite of trained staff is still normally required.
Intelligence is defined by Laycock as ‘whatever independent action can be taken on
receipt of information’, and is apparent at the following locations:
• network control centre
• protection and autoreclose equipment
• voltage control equipment