Sharing data in a modern control centre configuration: architecture and experiences

In general electrical utilities are facing a challenge to reduce life-cycle cost and improve flexibility in operation and services. To achieve this goal there is the need for computer system integration, spanning different types of data and services dispersed by various business processes. Computer based applications have been growing in complexity and inter-dependence. The challenge is to ensure the system survives the introduction, replacement or removal of any integrated application. Nowadays, component technology is a strong trend in the software industry for tackling these issues. A component may be seen as a software unit, providing functionality and services to others based on two well defined contracts: (1) the open component contract between any component and the component support middleware, and (2) the business specific contract, implemented by events within the open component contract to offer the application or database interface. The open component contract provides the key for achieving a successful system integration with true data sharing. The aim of the presentation is to outline EDP, EDINFOR and EFACEC experience in CORBA and component based architectures within a joint project for the development of a new generation of distribution control centre, as well as to present the foreseen implementation program. The presentation focuses on the use of component technology for data sharing and interfacing between a SCADA/DMS and GIS system, thus allowing the flow combined spatial and operational information to support multiple processes and user profiles on decision making