Jemena’s Emergency Backstop Mechanism – How it works

In modern electrical grids, having emergency response systems becomes more critical to maintain stability and ensure uninterrupted, safe operation of power supplies. For power generation facilities, especially those connected to the grid during emergency conditions, an effective emergency backstop mechanism is vital in preventing disruption. Jemena has developed an effective, robust, and dynamic emergency backstop for EG systems exceeding 200 kVA.

This article discusses Jemena’s approach to implementing an emergency backstop capability using a DoE solution instead of its existing SCADA system, which communicates via the DNP3 protocol.

Background

In Australia, regulatory requirements for EG systems, whether backup generators or renewable installations, mandate that any grid connection should respond to a disturbed grid without compromising power system stability. For installations exceeding 200 kVA, there is no prescriptive regulatory requirement for emergency backstop technology. This flexibility allows utilities like Jemena to integrate their in-house systems and solutions.
Jemena addresses these requirements using its SCADA infrastructure, offering a dependable, scalable, and flexible platform for managing EG systems and responding to emergency conditions in real-time.

Dynamic Operating Envelope (DoE)

The core of Jemena’s emergency backstop solution is the Dynamic Operating Envelope (DoE). This refers to operational limits on power export and generation, dynamically adjusted to real-time grid conditions and operational scenarios.
The DoE ensures that the output of an EG system remains within controlled constraints, preventing excessive grid load or violations of limits such as size, stress, or environmental factors. The DoE adapts continuously to factors like system performance, generation capacities, grid demands, and emergency conditions, ensuring grid reliability while utilizing distributed generation from backup generators and renewable sources.

Use of SCADA as a Backup for Emergency

Jemena utilizes its SCADA system for monitoring and controlling emergency generation. SCADA enables real-time data acquisition and control, ensuring EG systems remain operational and responsive to grid demands.
  • SCADA for Remote Monitoring: Allows remote monitoring and control of EG systems, ensuring timely response to grid demands.
  • DNP3 Protocol: Jemena employs the Distributed Network Protocol 3 for reliable, secure communication between EG systems and SCADA, leveraging networks like 4G and dedicated modems.
  • 4G Modem Connectivity: Ensures communication between field equipment and SCADA master stations, even in remote installations.

How the Emergency Backstop Works

  1. Data Acquisition: SCADA collects real-time data from EG systems, including power generation levels and grid status, transmitted via 4G modems using the DNP3 protocol.
  2. Monitoring and Control: Operators remotely monitor EG systems and adjust generation limits during emergencies according to the DoE.
  3. Emergency Response: The DoE mechanism curtails power export to maintain safe operating limits, throttles EG output, or redistributes power to stabilize the grid.
  4. Continuous Adaptation: The system adapts in real-time to maintain grid balance and reliability during events.

Advantages of Jemena’s Solution

  • Cost-Effectiveness: Utilizes existing SCADA infrastructure, minimizing additional investment.
  • Flexibility and Scalability: Supports various EG systems, including solar PV, diesel generators, and battery storage, and allows easy scaling.
  • Real-Time Monitoring and Control: Enhances emergency response and grid resilience.
  • Proven Communication Protocol: DNP3 ensures reliable and secure communication under challenging conditions.
  • Remote Accessibility: Operators can monitor and control the system remotely via 4G modems, increasing operational flexibility.

Jemena’s SCADA-based emergency backstop mechanism, featuring the Dynamic Operating Envelope and the DNP3 protocol, exemplifies efficient, scalable emergency grid management. By leveraging existing infrastructure, the solution ensures power generation stays within safe limits during emergencies, enhancing grid reliability, cost-effectiveness, and scalability.

As DER integration rises, solutions like Jemena’s backstop mechanism will be crucial for maintaining stable, reliable electricity grids.

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