Requirements for future energy management systems

A thorough analysis of the needs of future energy management systems (EMSs) is presented, with consideration given to their present state, the behavior of the power system, and the capabilities of the operator. The availability of efficient subsystems provides a basis for a discussion of centralization versus decentralization, especially with respect to dynamic system behavior. A ranking principle is introduced, which serves as a guideline for further developments. As an intermediate result, possible new functions and requirements are treated. It is concluded that EMSs are mainly oriented towards the normal and alert states. Insufficient functionality is available for controlling the emergency and restoration state. Because of increasing CPU power, the operator is expected to perceive unreasonably large volumes of data. Future systems which are essentially free of any technological constraints have to be adapted to the receptivity of the operator. The authors suggest functions providing more user-oriented functionality.<>