Improve Power Reliability through Small-Scale SCADA Systems

Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems date back to the early 1960s and have been widely used by large utilities since the 1980s to remotely monitor systems in real time. Through the data provided by SCADA systems, investor-owned utilities have been able to improve grid reliability, proactively detect and resolve problems, meet power quality requirements, and support strategic decisions. However, SCADA systems no longer need to be relegated to control room settings that support large systems with dedicated staff. The basic technology that supports SCADA can now be cost-effectively scaled to smaller systems with as few as just one substation. This paper will highlight how smaller utilities may benefit from SCADA functionality, perceived barriers to implementation, typical requirements, technical considerations, and best practices for engaging engineering and construction partners from recent projects.