Decentralized distribution automation system - scalability and deployment challenges

The functionality of the modern distribution automation application typically includes fault localization, isolation, and load restoration. The increased penetration of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) demands faster system response to fault scenarios due to the DERs' dynamic nature and decentralized allocation. The fastest system response can be achieved when distribution automation has intelligence at the grid edge. Such an approach requires decentralized decision-making logic employed by automation controllers working together to resolve fault scenarios for a pre-defined geographic area. Each participating controller incorporates local measurements and data received from other team members into its decision process for operational switching. The data exchange rates and amount of shared information typically limit the number of devices in one team. This potentially presents an engineering challenge for the large-scale deployment of the distribution automation system with decentralized architecture. To overcome these engineering challenges, the authors are introducing a bridging concept where multiple teams with automation controllers can share relevant information. Each bridge can connect two teams, thus expanding the overall scalability of the distribution automation system. This concept optimizes the IEC61850 data management to simplify the communication infrastructure and configuration. This paper includes the system's governing rules, development phases, and operation examples.