Digital substation integration for secure, interoperable grids
Overcome the challenges of substation retrofit, workforce dependency, and vendor lock-in with DNV’s digital substation services. Achieve a future-ready, interoperable grid compliant with IEC 61850 standards, reducing integration costs, increasing vendor flexibility, and enabling secure, efficient data exchange across systems.
The energy sector is rapidly digitalizing to improve efficiency and lower costs. Regulatory demands, renewable integration, and the need for reliable operations are accelerating this shift.
Transitioning to digital substations is complex and brings challenges: legacy systems tied to specific vendors, loss of expertise from a retiring workforce, and analogue equipment that limits data exchange. Remote operations add cyber security risks, while evolving regulations require continuous compliance and updated testing practices.
About DNV’s digital substation services
DNV’s digital substation service facilitates the transition to a fully digital grid environment compliant with IEC 61850 standards. Our service encompasses:
- The implementation of substation automation systems with bay controllers and protection.
- Development of communication profiles and relevant data models.
- Integration of merging units to convert analogue signals into digital data, ensuring a seamless data flow.
- Design and deployment of process bus architectures to optimize performance, scalability, and interoperability.
- Application of the latest cyber security standards and international best practices throughout the project lifecycle.
Subservices
- Standard-to-profile transition support: DNV aids utilities in defining and verifying communication profiles based on IEC standards, ensuring equipment interoperability and compliance.
- Tendering and procurement facilitation: We translate business needs into technical specifications, supporting utilities through the entire procurement process to ensure vendor independence and cost-efficiency.
- Implementation support: We assist utilities during all phases of digital substation implementation—from design review and development guidance to FAT and SAT execution.
Why DNV
DNV brings unmatched expertise and independence, being the first to offer an impartial audit of automation and communication requirements. This is supported by extensive training and practical workshops.
We provide comprehensive support, from interpreting standards to developing and verifying customized profiles, ensuring that all substation components are interoperable and conform to IEC standards.
With a global presence and a strong commitment to quality, safety, and innovation, DNV is the trusted partner for utilities worldwide, helping accelerate the digital transformation of substations.
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