DSAS Background

The usage and management of power transmission and distribution grids is changing dramatically as the world takes on the Energy Transition to more efficient digital systems. The control architecture for power grids needs to be adapted to take account of infeed at lower grid levels, higher dynamics in flow patterns, and more distributed controls - including internal controls as well as grid flexibility services from third parties.

In this context, transmission system operators (TSOs) and distribution system operators (DSOs) require a new generation of Digital Substation Automation Systems (DSAS), allowing for more dynamic protection settings and adaptive automation functions. Moreover, data management becomes a significant challenge for the administration of deployed automation and protection functions as well as the procurement and curation of operational grid data.

The design of the new DSAS requires a higher level of modularity, interoperability, and scalability compared to previous generations. Open source collaboration is an essential part of meeting those requirements in a cost-efficient way. Open source development enables the sharing of effort through a leveraged development approach, involving all stakeholders - from equipment manufacturers to end-users - and fosters vendor-agnostic implementations and convergence of utility practices. 

DSAS Projects in LF Energy

The first project to launch under LF Energy's DSAS initiative is CoMPAS - Configuration Modules for Power industry Automation Systems. CoMPAS