Challenges and Learnings During Integration of Phasor Measurement Unit Data with Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition System—An Indian Experience

With gradual expansion of the grid, the conventional Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) required additional visualization tools to operate the grid in more efficient manner. Due to low situational awareness, it became difficult for the operator to control the grid in safe and secure manner. This also resulted in isolated blackouts in the grid. In order to enhance the situational awareness, Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs) were installed initially at critical locations identified on the basis of system studies. Upon installation of PMUs, the resolution of data increased from 2 to 4 (SCADA) to 40–60 samples/cycle (PMU). India being geographically diverse and large, the number of PMUs requirement was very high. This large-scale integration of PMUs with existing SCADA posed many technological, geographical, financial and adaptability problems (electricity being concurrent subject of state and centre). This paper elaborates all such integration issues and challenges faced during integration of SCADA-PMU pan India.