Wireless Sensor Networks for the Protection of an Electrical Energy Distribution Infrastructure

From a safety and security point of view, the electrical energy distribution infrastructure needs to be protected.. In this paper solutions to increase the safety aspects of substation components, power lines and power transformers are discussed. Also security solutions related to perimeter intrusion detection in substations and remote surveillance of power transformer installations are introduced. All the solutions are based on the deployment of wireless sensor and actuator networks in the substation, power lines and power transformers, which perform remote monitoring and provide alarms when required. The sensor network interacts with the SCADA system of the electricity provider to allow for centralised control of the protection system.