Challenges in Implementing a Large-Scale PMU System

Synchronized measurements represent next generation of paradigm-shift technology, enabling improvements in planning and operating electrical grid otherwise not possible. However, implementing a large-scale PMU system presents some unique challenges. Such systems need to transmit and store large amount of data. Deployment of this technology typically involves a large number of entities (utilities in a connected grid, ISOs, regional organizations, regulators). Each owner/operator is responsible for a part of the system. These systems need to support a wide range of applications for their stakeholders, thus need to accommodate diverse requirements of different applications. As many applications are still in the research and development stage and the deployment roadmaps are not fully developed, requirements are not clearly defined. This is one of the main reasons that there is a lack of available products to support large-scale implementation. How to design a system that meets all those diverse requirements under current situation is a major challenge and the key to the deployment success. Ensuring the consistent performance of all PMUs that will be acquired from multiple vendors, and installed, operated and maintained by different entities is another major challenge. This paper discusses key deployment challenges and recommends measures to address them.