Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems have traditionally played a vital role by providing utilities with valuable knowledge and capabilities that are key to a primary business function - delivering power in a reliable and safe manner. A quality SCADA solution is central to effective operation of a utility's most critical and costly distribution, transmission, and generation assets.
The challenging issues for SCADA systems and projects today are not the same as they were a few years ago. Today, there is much more importance placed on integration, use of new communication and network technologies, access to information by more users, and other purposes.
Today’s SCADA systems, in response to changing business needs, have added new functionalities and are aids for strategic advancements towards interactive, self healing smart grids of the future. A modern SCADA system is also a strategic investment which is a must-have for utilities of all sizes facing the challenges of the competitive market and increased levels of real time data exchange that comes with it (independent market operator, regional transmission operator, major C&I establishments, etc.). A well planned and implemented SCADA system not only helps utilities deliver power reliably and safely to their customers but also helps to lower costs and achieve higher customer satisfaction and retention. Modern SCADA systems are already contributing and playing a key role at many utilities towards achieving:
- New levels in electric grid reliability – increased revenue.
- Proactive problem detection and resolution – higher reliability.
- Meeting the mandated power quality requirements – increased customer satisfaction.
Real time strategic decision making – cost reductions and increased revenue.
