Implementation of a modern real-time control infrastructure for supporting the Brazilian interconnected power system

The project and implementation plans for the modem realtime control infrastructure that Operador Nacional do Sistema Eletrico (ONS), the Brazilian ISO, is developing to operate its over 60000 MW interconnected power network, is presented. Brazil is experiencing organizational changes in its electric sector as a result of laws that open the market to competition and new players, mostly through privatization. The hierarchical structure of control centers is described, which accommodates ONS owned control centers as well as leased ones from other utilities providing support to integrated operations. The project concerning the modernization of ONS control centers is explained along with the communication needs, in particular the ongoing three regional control center project. Finally, some guidelines for a strategic study to be developed regarding the ONS Control Centers structure are briefly presented.