Distribution automation (DA) using supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) with advanced metering infrastructure (AMI)

In Ghana, power generation, transmission and distribution are the preserve of utility companies like Volta River Authority (VRA), Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) and Electricity Company Ghana (ECG) respectively. The Northern Electricity Department also distributes electric power in the three northern regions and parts of the Brong Ahafo Region. In the transmission system, GRIDCo uses Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) to monitor and control switches and protective devices. ECG also runs part of its system, from the bulk supply point to the feeders feeding the distribution transformers, with SCADA. Unfortunately, there is no SCADA application from the distribution transformer to the consumer end. This paper proposes a SCADA-based Distribution Automation (DA) of utility metering. The findings of the research show that, using DA with Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) solves problems associated with the demerits of the present method of billing. This will improve routine operational efficiency, asset management, reliability, quality of service, and security. It was also realized that the implementation of this project will have to start from the industrial areas since the networks in such localities are mostly better organized, thus needing less rewiring.