IEEE 1588 for time synchronization of devices in the electric power industry

There is an increasing demand on accurate time synchronization for protection and control equipment for the electrical power supply system. Today, with the proliferation of Ethernet networks in the substation automation systems, mainly driven by other standards as IEC 61850, time distribution over these networks appears to be especially appealing. NTP was already specified in IEC 61850 as time distribution mechanism, but this was only suitable for less demanding purposes. For the more challenging protection applications, IEEE 1588 seems to be the right choice. The experts in substation automation, protection, and control have already identified these issues and initiated coordinated action on this. The Power Systems Relaying Committee of the IEEE, in close coordination with the Technical Committee 57 of IEC, is currently working on a profile of PTP for Power System Applications (IEEE PC37.238).