Experience using PRP Ethernet redundancy for Substation Automation Systems

PRP (Parallel Redundancy Protocol) is one of the methods that can be applied to implement Ethernet network redundancy. PRP is defined in Part 3 of the IEC 62439 Standard [1]. The paper discusses the principle of operation of PRP, and the benefits for use in an IEC 61850-based Substation Automation System, compared with some other redundancy protocols. One of the main benefits of PRP to users is that, because it is an IEC Standard, it allows interoperability between equipment from different vendors. Experience of the use of PRP in multi-vendor installations is discussed. This includes both extensive interoperability testing between many major substation IED (Intelligent Electronic Device) vendors, and also experience from in-service utility installations of multi-vendor PRP networks and IEDs. The conclusions propose how PRP can be used in realising the Digital Substation based on secure and reliable technology.