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May 2015
ABB Power Update North America

Entering a new epoch

Electricity can be found everywhere, from the ubiquitous and mundane applications that are so easily taken for granted, to the largest and most complex of systems. The electricity supply has, in little more than a century, become the most important enabler of human activity and business. Despite fundamental transformations along the journey from early island networks to the continent-wide synchronized three-phase AC grids that emerged in the second half of the 20th century, the basic principles underlying these systems remained largely unchanged. Until now. >> Discover the recent developments bringing about these changes.    

This article is an excerpt from ABB's quarterly technical journal, ABB Review.
Smart Grid
From investment to return

Back in 2009, Texas utility, CenterPoint Energy, landed a $200 million Department of Energy stimulus grant to carry out a $750 million smart grid project, one of the biggest in the country. It started with smart meters, capable of detecting power outages and helping field crews and customers understand how quickly they could be fixed. They then added devices to reroute power across storm-damaged distribution circuits in seconds. Finally, they connected it all with a high-speed wireless network and an underlying advanced distribution management software (ADMS) platform. >> Find out how CenterPoint’s integrated smart grid is paying off.    

>> I’d like to talk to someone about smart grid.
Medium Voltage Products
OSHA’s arc flash final rule will save lives

In April 2014, OSHA published its Final Rule for Electric Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution Standards (29 CFR 1910.269 and 1926 Subpart V), which applies to employers that operate or maintain generation, transmission, or distribution lines or equipment. Major changes involve updates to fall protection, arc flash hazard analysis, minimum approach distance requirements, and arc flash protection requirements. The agency estimates that compliance with the final rule will cost approximately $47 million to $50 million annually, but that it may save 20 lives and prevent 118 serious injuries every year. >> Read more about the arc flash aspect of the rule and how companies can comply.

>> I’d like to talk with someone about arc flash mitigation.
Wireless Communications
Wireless communications: a building block for physical security

Substations and other critical utility infrastructure are increasingly becoming the target of physical security attacks. Networked physical security systems at substations, as well as other critical utility infrastructures, can be a significant factor in minimizing or deterring threats. Around-the-clock centralized monitoring and alerts, easily deployed using modern wireless broadband communication networks, offer early awareness and visibility into incidents, enabling timely response by the utility. >> Learn more about utilizing wireless networks in physical security systems.   

>> I’d like to talk to someone about wireless communications.
High Voltage Service
The power of collaboration in power services

High voltage circuit breaker equipment represents a substantial investment for any utility, especially when coupled with today’s sophisticated new grid technologies. So when it comes to maintaining or replacing these breakers, all options have to be considered. Often, the most cost-effective option is to partner with a full-service OEM expert who will employ the latest technologies during maintenance cycles and seek life extension opportunities, such as retrofits or component replacement. In some cases, total replacement, removing obsolete equipment or technology, may be best. Furthermore, remote monitoring and advanced inspection techniques, such as radiography, will often eliminate the need for intrusive maintenance programs, or early replacement altogether. >> Further explore some well-developed service strategies available today.  

>> I’d like to talk to someone about high voltage service.
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