The new IEEE 1591.1-2012 standard covers hardware performance criteria, testing requirements, procedures, and acceptance for the ground overload cable for transmission lines (commonly known as ground wire) with optical fibers, commonly known as optical ground wire (OPGW). Electrical, mechanical, optical fiber, environmental, and testing requirements related to design, installation, service, and maintenance, including routine testing, are included. Additionally, new projects on smart grids include:
IEEE P1909.1, “Recommended Practice for Smart Grid Communication Equipment—Test methods and installation requirements,” will document the specific test and installation procedures for communications equipment to be installed in various areas of the smart grid, including generation, transmission, and distribution. Testing will focus on safety, electromagnetic capability (EMC), environmental factors, and mechanical considerations.
IEEE P1703, “Standard for Local Area Network/Wide Area Network (LAN/WAN) Node Communication Protocol to complement the Utility Industry End Device Data Tables,” aims to improve the cost-efficiency and flexibility of advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) implementations. The standard will define the delivery of uniform, managed, adaptable, and secure messages and data across the network for plug-and-play devices, multimeters, household appliances, communication technologies, and other auxiliary devices
The IEEE P1854, “Guide for Smart Distribution Applications Guide,” will classify and describe important smart distribution applications and fill gaps in standardized definitions of such systems. The guide is intended to cover advancements in automation and SCADA systems for reliability improvement, fault management, fault location and management, voltage and pressure management, integration of distributed resources and renewable generation, demand response, advanced protection, diagnostic equipment and asset management, real-time simulation for system optimization, microgrids, and many other applications.
