Integration of SCADA and DA/DMS across a large distribution system

Successful economic management and operation of a large widely dispersed, mainly radial transmission and distribution network requires a high degree of flexibility in control. This flexibility is required without the loss of functionality if it is to meet the increasing customer demand for higher reliability. The integrating of SCADA and distribution automation (DA) systems is essential for maximum operating efficiencies and to be implemented cost effectively requires a highly flexible basic building block. An ideal system needs to be able to perform the simplest of distribution tasks while being capable of being networked in a manner which provides full SCADA functionality.