Efficient Secondary System Configuration Process Utilizing Centralized Substation Functions

1. Introduction Smart grid initiatives around the world show how much the control and protection of distribution networks is expected to change within the next few years. As the passive network with unidirectional power flow evolves into an active network with a variety of different active resources, the requirements for the primary distribution substations will also change, requiring the utilities to take action. Utilities are reluctant to undertake continuous and costly upgrades of the whole protection system, but there is still a clear need for adapting to new requirements. The need to increase the level of automation in the distribution system has been clearly noticed both on the vendor side [Hec09] and on the utility side [Gor07].