The Netherlands’ power grid operators recently embarked on a groundbreaking project to implement a Real-Time Interface (RTI) that enables efficient power generation and alleviates capacity constraints on the electricity grid.
However, they encountered a significant hurdle: the IEC 61850 data model utilized in the project contained an abundance of unnecessary data objects and superfluous information.
Fortunately, a remarkable solution emerged in the form of CoMPAS.
Developed by LF Energy, this open-source software tool became the driving force behind streamlining the data model, eliminating redundant elements, and optimizing its structure.
In this article, we explore the impact of CoMPAS on the RTI project, revolutionizing power management systems.
Challenges
The RTI project faced a formidable challenge: a complex IEC 61850 data model riddled with extraneous data objects and information.
This intricacy hindered the seamless implementation and effective utilization of the model, necessitating a robust solution capable of validating and decluttering the data model effectively.
Solution
Enter CoMPAS, the hero of the hour.
Leveraging its built-in functionalities, CoMPAS proved to be the ideal solution to overcome the challenges presented by the intricate IEC 61850 data model.
Its comprehensive toolset enabled users, even without extensive knowledge of the IEC 61850 protocol, to effortlessly validate and clean up the data model.
CoMPAS transformed the XML-based data model into a visually accessible format, empowering users with its user-friendly interface.
By harnessing the power of CoMPAS, the project team streamlined the data model, purging unnecessary elements, and optimizing its structure.
Impact
The implementation of CoMPAS ushered in a significant transformation for the RTI project.
The software tool’s intuitive interface and built-in validation functions revolutionized the data model cleanup process, expediting overall development.
CoMPAS’s accessibility to users with limited expertise in the IEC 61850 protocol alleviated complexities, simplifying validation and optimization tasks, resulting in accelerated progress.
Measurable impacts include saved time in data model cleanup, reduced errors, and improved efficiencies achieved through a streamlined data model.
Future Plans
Currently in the beta phase, the RTI project undergoes rigorous lab and field tests to refine the technical specification and finalize the interface.
These tests are expected to unveil new insights that will impact the IEC 61850 data model of the RTI.
CoMPAS remains an integral component during this phase, analyzing findings, and facilitating necessary adjustments to the data model.
The goal is to incorporate identified improvements and publish the final version of the technical specification in the third quarter of 2023.
As the RTI progresses towards large-scale implementation, CoMPAS will continue to support ongoing development, implementation, and optimization of the interface.
Conclusion
LF Energy’s CoMPAS software tool revolutionized the RTI project, yielding significant benefits, including enhanced efficiency, streamlined development, and improved accuracy.
By simplifying the complex IEC 61850 data model, CoMPAS emerged as a vital asset, empowering grid operators and facilitating seamless communication.
With CoMPAS, power generation management and addressing capacity constraints have become a streamlined process, ensuring a robust and reliable electricity grid.
The integration of CoMPAS signifies a monumental step towards efficient power management systems, revolutionizing the grid for a sustainable energy future.
This case study was originally published on LF Energy. Read more here.
