Expending the scope of protective relays across traditional boundaries

The new competitive environment is having visible affects on the traditional vertically integrated utilities of the past and on modern relay and control system design. Changing needs and rules by which utility companies are operated require new approaches in design and management of protection and substation control. Combined protection and control intelligent electronic devices enjoy increasing acceptance for use in new switchgear and refurbishment projects. The migration of local control and metering functions into protection relays is an attractive option for efficient and economic distribution system management