Efacec Automation is on the forefront of the technical development for Smart Grids. Last November, Automation R&D team has deployed the Fault Detection Isolation and Restoration solution (FDIR) for Medium Voltage (MV) grid at the Portuguese DSO, locating the controller at Sao Jorge substation in the Batalha municipality.

The FDIR solution for MV self-healing grids is based on distributed intelligence. Information is aggregated at the primary substation and a decision of reconfiguration is calculated at the same level and issued to breakers in the feeders of the distribution area. Equipment deployed along the distribution area does not require additional communication capabilities, just to report data/status and act according to the orders received from the FDIR system. The FDIR system can operate in two modes: Advisory and Automatic. In automatic mode, after a fault the FDIR calculates the orders and issues them without an operator intervention. In advisory mode, the FDIR also calculates the orders after a fault, and transmits the operator sequence to the dispatch center.

This installation is inserted in a wider smart grid project promoted by EDP, with Efacec in a role of a key partner. It addresses the need to improve System Average Interruption Duration Index, among other key performance indicators. In order to achieve this goal an advanced Distribution Automation solution, integrated with Automated Metering infrastructure, is being delivered to the field using RF Mesh and PLC Prime technology.

Efacec Automation is very satisfied with this achievement; it confirms company’s commitment to innovation and R&D activities, and confirms Efacec as a recognized smart grid solutions provider.