January 21, 2004—The Midwest ISO has completed installation of a new computer system that provides control room operators the most in-depth view of the Eastern Interconnection, with a focus on the electric transmission grid that stretches from Pennsylvania to Nebraska and from Tennessee to the Canadian province of Manitoba.
The computer model—called a “State Estimator” because it provides operators with the current state of conditions on the power grid—has been operational since December 31, 2003. The system is the primary tool the Midwest Independent Transmission System Operator, Inc. (Midwest ISO) uses to monitor the flow of electricity over transmission lines throughout much of the Midwest U.S.
“Implementation of the State Estimator model is a key operational milestone that reaffirms our commitment to ensuring the safe and reliable transmission of electricity,” said James P. Torgerson, president and CEO for the Midwest ISO.
“We now have the capability to continuously monitor conditions not only within our region, but in neighboring areas, as well,” Torgerson added. “This is a significant stride forward in enhancing reliability.”
The State Estimator features a mathematical formula that rapidly digests raw data from tens of thousands of points along the power grid. The data is fed into a computer to develop a series of contingency analyses for potential events that could compromise system reliability. As a result, control room operators now have a more comprehensive, big- picture look at the evolving condition of the grid on a real-time basis, enabling them to pinpoint potential problem areas, and take necessary action to maintain reliability.
In addition to installation of the State Estimator model, the Midwest ISO has implemented a number of other measures to enhance system reliability. Those enhancements include:
- Increasing by 50 percent the number of flowgates into its backup monitoring tool to better gauge power flows on critical transmission lines;
- Installing an expanded video projection system in the Midwest ISO Control Room;
- Improving filtering of alarming systems to more effectively detect system imbalances or operating condition deficiencies; and
- Executing a Joint Operating Agreement (JOA) to dramatically increase the exchange of data and improve communication between the Midwest ISO and PJM.
“Our goal is to make the Midwest ISO the premier RTO in the world,” Torgerson said. “These measures further reinforce our continued commitment to the safety and reliability of the transmission system under our stewardship.”
For more information, visit the Midwest ISO.
