The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) could now remotely operate unmanned substations, improving the operational performance of its transmission facilities.
The grid operator recently launched its Central Control and Monitoring System (CCMS), as part of its ongoing efforts to improve power transmission capabilities and bring the country closer to running on a Smart Grid.
The CCMS is a technology used to automate certain functions of the power transmission grid, particularly in its substations. The system comprises of real-time monitoring software and hardware to be used for the acquisition, collection, centralized monitoring, and analysis of power data and equipment condition.
The CCMS is part of the company’s commitment to introduce Smart Grid technology to Philippine grid operations. A Smart Grid incorporates modern hardware and digital software to intuitively and intelligently automate the functions of the power system. This translates to improved grid security and information management, efficient integration of the connection between generators and load customers, effective response to the needs of the transmission network, and greater reliability and quality of power transmitted by the grid.
The pilot operations of the CCMS are in NGCP’s Cagayan de Oro and Cebu substations, with the company targeting to expand CCMS-enabled facilities to 21 substations around the country by 2025.
“NGCP is pleased with this development as it works to keep pace with the rising standards of power utility practices around the globe, as part of its commitment to realize a smarter, more efficient power transmission grid,” it said.
NGCP is a Filipino-led, privately owned company in charge of operating, maintaining, and developing the country’s power grid, led by majority shareholders and Vice Chairman of the Board Henry Sy, Jr. and Co-Vice Chairman Robert Coyiuto Jr.