Implementation of online security assessment

The implementation of online dynamic security assessment (DSA) systems is growing worldwide, and the deployment of this advanced technology is expected to improve the real-time security and, hence, the reliability of power systems. While not insignificant, the cost and efforts required to install online DSA tools are minor compared to the benefits of reducing the volume of offline studies required and, more importantly, the benefits of identifying and avoiding potential security problems in the systems to reduce the risk of blackouts. Based on practical experience, a process of DSA system integration is presented that can assist utilities and grid operators in addressing key issues during the specification, development, and installation of such tools. A number of successful online DSA projects are discussed to illustrate the viability and practicality of such applications, even for large, complex power systems. The penetration of online DSA tools is expected to continue to grow as operators seek timely and cost-effective approaches to enhance system performance. In the meantime, work is continuing on new methods of online analysis, advanced preventive and corrective control tools, and improved hardware architectures