How can utilities ensure interoperability with the IEC 61968 standard?

If I were to give a precise yet concise and simple definition of the IEC 61968 standard, it would be that it is a model for integrating operational and management systems in power distribution companies. While this definition might be adequate, it is not complete. To add more precision, the integration of all business layer functions within the Distribution Management System is the most accurate definition. As a project integration supervisor at Mashhad Power Distribution Company, this is the definition I can offer based on my personal experience.

Begin by familiarizing yourself with the IEC 61968 standard, which is a series of international standards designed for the integration of distributed energy resources, particularly in electric utility environments. The standard outlines communication protocols and data exchange formats that facilitate interoperability among different utility systems, such as customer information systems, asset management systems, and outage management systems. Study the various parts of IEC 61968, as each part focuses on specific areas like application integration, message types, and service interfaces. Understanding these will provide a solid foundation for implementing the standard effectively.

The importance of the IEC 61968 standard lies in its role within the Smart Grid Architecture Model (SGAM). Interoperability within this architectural model is achieved at the operational and organizational layers when the Common Information Model (CIM) is implemented according to the standard. In the Smart Grid Maturity Model (SGMM) at level three, integration is encountered at the Distribution Management System level. Therefore, if distribution companies aim to advance towards a Smart Grid architecture based on global standards, the IEC 61968 standard plays a crucial role.

Recognize that IEC 61968 is critical for ensuring seamless communication and data exchange between different systems within a utility. It supports the integration of new technologies, enhances operational efficiency, and enables better decision-making by providing consistent and reliable data across the organization. Highlight the importance of the standard to all stakeholders within the utility, emphasizing how it can reduce operational silos, improve response times to outages, and support the integration of renewable energy sources.

Regarding the implementation of IEC 61968, I can share my personal experience as follows: First, you need to understand your organization's current state and whether its priority is to achieve process maturity through system integration. If the answer is yes, you should first align your process gaps with the reference model provided or CIM IRM. This is detailed in the first part of the IEC 61968 standard series, with the latest version released in 2020. Identifying these gaps can show you which areas have fewer process gaps, and you should use these areas as initial milestones for implementation.

To implement IEC 61968, start by conducting a thorough assessment of your current systems and identifying areas that require integration. Develop a step-by-step plan that includes updating or replacing incompatible systems, training staff, and conducting pilot tests. Adopt a phased approach to implementation, beginning with the most critical systems and gradually expanding to others. Ensure that you have the right middleware solutions in place to facilitate communication between different systems.

For electrical companies aiming to advance towards an Advanced Distribution Management System (ADMS), establishing an effective data exchange infrastructure is essential. The IEC 61968 standard provides a solution for integrating operational and management systems within electrical distribution companies. Identifying which systems need to be included in this data exchange model is crucial for enhanced distribution management system. Systems in isolation can lead to resource inefficiencies and poor data flow control, as highlighted on page 8 of the standard's first part. Failure to implement IEC 61968 may compromise data governance. Therefore, adhering to this standard is vital for electrical distribution companies.

The benefits of IEC 61968 include improved system interoperability, increased operational efficiency, reduced integration costs, and enhanced data consistency across the utility. These benefits contribute to better customer service, more efficient resource management, and quicker response times during emergencies. Document and communicate these benefits to key stakeholders, including management and technical teams, to secure buy-in and support for the implementation process.

Be aware of the challenges that may arise during implementation, such as the need for significant upfront investment, potential compatibility issues with legacy systems, and the requirement for extensive staff training. Prepare a risk management plan that addresses these challenges, including strategies for dealing with legacy systems, securing necessary funding, and providing comprehensive training to ensure a smooth transition.

As the project manager for integration at the Mashhad Power Distribution Company, I want to share my experience with implementing the IEC 61968 standard. This standard has yet to be adopted by distribution companies in Iran. So far, data exchange between systems has been driven by decisions made to address specific system needs. However, during my gap analysis, I found significant discrepancies in this alignment. Implementing communication based on the standard’s framework requires a cultural shift within the organization. Managers need to recognize that this approach can offer higher efficiency. If your organization has managers resistant to change, you will face significant challenges.

One idea I can propose regarding the standard is that in a service-oriented architecture, we might not be able to maintain historical data, and the focus should be on the architectural integration according to the standard. In my organization, I've found that if we manage services in an environment like a data lake instead of using an Enterprise Service Bus (ESB), we can gain better control and oversight of data and its flow. Essentially, services based on the IEC 61968 standard could be provided by a distributed database.