Saudi Aramco vision of optimized power system automation (PSA)

Abstract

Saudi Aramco electrical control and monitoring system evolved to Power Systems Automation (PSA). The first implementation of PSA was in 2009 following Saudi Aramco Internal Standard 126 imbued with IEC-61850 standard. Since then, search for new automation solution did not stop and the Company's cyber security level of maturity has increased, questing for improved cyber security measures. This document translates the knowledge gained since the implementation of PSA following Standard 126. It describes the current PSA architecture and drives recommendations to enhance the system to what Saudi Aramco envisions of an optimized PSA. Saudi Aramco Optimized PSA calls for increased reliability, rapid deployment, complete segregation between Substation and Control Room, reduced Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and improved security. It induces Company's transition to the next level of future Substation Automation System.