Resolving the challenges of multiple vendor 61850 implementations

To be designed for a self-monitoring protection and control system that would minimize wiring and troubleshooting, a 345kV Substation for a US Transmission Company for had to interoperate with multiple vendors' relays. An IEC 61850 based solution was chosen to facilitate multi-vendor compatibility. Interestingly, IEC 61850 interoperability turned out to be a major challenge as different vendors IEC 61850 software settings and implementations differ significantly. The project reinforces the importance of considering the initial cost of deployment but also the costs of potential upgrade paths as technology continues to improve.