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Landsnet and OMICRON pave the way for the future of digital substations through cooperation.
Landsnet operates the approximately 3,200 km / 1,980 mi transmission network in Iceland with a total of 83 substations. In 2019, the decision was made to fully digitise all substations according to IEC 61850 over the next few years. Landsnet and OMICRON have been working together on this ambitious project since 2021. So far, the transition has been a great success, and several digital substations are already in operation. Read on to learn more about the transition to digital substations and the ambitious project in Iceland.
Pioneering drives innovation
This is not the first project to introduce digital substations, but Landsnet is taking it to another level in terms of scope and its pioneering nature. New technologies have often only been used in pilot substations, but here, they are being implemented directly in the transmission network. We are supporting Landsnet to carry out the complete conversion of the nationwide transmission network to digital substations systematically and efficiently.
Overcoming new challenges
In addition to the many benefits digital substations bring, they present many new challenges. Overcoming these challenges requires a step-by-step, systematic approach from the very start. Our OMICRON Consulting Service has many years of project experience with digital substations. Therefore, we could provide Landsnet with a suitable strategy and excellent planning advice. We also provided the appropriate tools for new technologies in the form of products and customised solutions, and sharing our knowledge has also enabled Landsnet to use these tools efficiently.
Sharing knowledge and empowering people
When our partnership began, extensive specification and design work was required for the basis of a widespread rollout. The proper protocols had to be selected, and comprehensive specifications and implementation instructions had to be created. These were then used to derive templates for Landsnet’s standard topologies. With the help of these templates, subsequent substations can be planned and implemented much more efficiently. Careful selection and pre-testing of Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs) and network components also contributed significantly to their success. By providing automated test plans for functional and compatibility testing, Landsnet could perform an efficient Factory Acceptance Test (FAT). Despite the travel restrictions, we did everything possible to provide the best possible remote support for the FAT.
A truly exceptional experience
In February 2023, we were able to perform the Site Acceptance Test (SAT) at the digital substation in Hrútatunga. The gas insulated 132 kV substation with six switch bays is located about 160 km / 100 mi from Reykjavik in an icy landscape of breathtaking beauty. The SAT was also a highlight from a technical point of view. The system architecture, consisting of IEDs from different manufacturers with network redundancy mechanisms, was demanding and complex. Many of our solutions for testing and commissioning digital substations were used in the SAT. The substation communication network, protection and control equipment, and instrument transformers with their merging units were tested thoroughly. Reusing the predefined FAT test plans with some minor adaptations for SAT saved a lot of effort. The SAT was completed successfully and efficiently to the satisfaction of all participants. There was a lively and constructive exchange with the operating personnel from Landsnet.
