Use of Satellite Technologies for Power System Measurements, Command, and Control

This paper analyzes the use of wide-area measurement technologies including satellite-based methods for the command and control of power systems. The methods studied include the global positioning system (GPS) and low earth orbit satellites (LEOS). Satellite technologies have been used in a variety of applications requiring precise timing between geographically diverse locations. The deregulation of the electric power industry is placing increased demands on power transmission system utilization. Because deregulated power systems utilize long-distance high-power exchanges, satellite-based communication systems are useful in control of geographically large interconnected power systems. In this paper, the satellite-based measurements and commands are introduced for wide-area control. With the support of wide-area signals, a multiagent supervisory-level power system stabilizer is proposed here as a potential wide-area control structure. Increased loading of transmission facilities is an impetus for accurate dynamic thermal overhead electrical conductor ratings. The application of satellite-based measurement for improving the dynamic thermal rating of overhead transmission circuits is suggested.

I. Introduction

The operation of electric power systems relies on measurements for command and control. Increasingly, wide-area measurement systems (WAMS) are needed because of the contemporary requirements of exchange of power over long distances. Satellite technologies have been brought to bear on requirements for the exchange of measurement, command, and control signals over great distances. The accuracy of measurements as well as the delays in communicating signals are important elements in the analysis and design of measurement and control systems.