Synchrophasors for Distribution Applications

The changing nature of the distribution grid leads to new concerns in system operation. New resources connected at the distribution level, changing load characteristics, and increased reliability requirements all point to the need for improved monitoring and control capabilities. Many existing synchrophasor applications have been installed to address distribution concerns. These applications include islanding detection, voltage collapse avoidance, and improved understanding of distributed generation dynamic response. This paper discusses both existing and future applications for synchrophasor technology in distribution systems. Monitoring, control, and protection applications are considered, including visualization, component monitoring, and high-speed applications. Details of installation and communications requirements are provided along with practical bandwidth and data storage requirements to meet proposed North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) requirements. The time-synchronized and streaming characteristics of synchrophasors provide new capabilities to address distribution concerns. An understanding of the capabilities and limitations of synchrophasors in distribution systems will help engineers make maximum use of this advanced technology.