Transgrid has recently published a Project Assessment Draft Report (PADR) for System Security Roadmap Operational Technology Upgrades. Publication of this PADR represents the second step in the RIT-T process.
The electricity system in NSW is currently undergoing a period of transformation, with several factors driving increased complexity in power system planning and operations.
This transformation is driving a substantial increase in information and analysis requirements across our operational control and operational planning functions, particularly due to an increase in the number and new types of transmission assets, in combination with unprecedented changes in generation and load interacting with our network. Additional complexity also arises from the more variable characteristics defining renewable generation and storage (compared to retiring base load generation).
In the absence of an upgrade to the capabilities used in our control rooms and corporate offices, the increasing complexity of the NSW power system means that:
- it is likely that Transgrid will need to impose constraints more frequently on the operation of the power system in NSW, and generally begin to operate the system in a more conservative manner (which may require placing constraints on the operation of low cost, renewable generators), to have sufficient confidence that the system will remain within its required operating envelope; and
- there is an increased likelihood that contingency events may occur when our operators are overburdened from needing to access and confirm the accuracy of information from multiple sources, and therefore less equipped to take the action within the required time. This in turn poses a greater risk of expected unserved energy (EUE) to end consumers going forward.
Transgrid would like to address these potential adverse outcomes proactively, and this RIT-T is being carried out to provide Transgrid with the tools to prevent such a situation from arising.
At this stage of the RIT-T process, Transgrid has identified and provided analysis on two feasible options from a technical, commercial, and project delivery perspective that can be implemented in sufficient time to meet the identified need:
- Option 1: Reactive capability – provides enhancements to Transgrid’s existing core OT capabilities (beyond typical lifecycle replacement capability) to improve the reactive capabilities of Transgrid’s control room and corporate offices;
- Option 2: Proactive capability – provides further, moderate enhancements across a portfolio of Transgrid’s existing OT capabilities, as well as additional new capabilities, so that Transgrid can proactively plan for, and respond to, operational issues across its control room and corporate offices.
The PSCR was released on 14 October 2024. Transgrid received one submission to the PSCR from Energy Consumers Australia. The PSCR and submission are available on Transgrid’s website.
The results of the PADR assessment confirmed Transgrid’s recommended Option 2 as presenting the greatest net market benefit.
Transgrid welcomes written submissions on materials contained in this PADR. Submissions are due on 24 June 2025. Submissions are to be made to regulatory.consultation@transgrid.com.au.
In accordance with the requirements of the National Electricity Rules, a summary of the PADR is made available on the AEMO website. A copy of the PADR can be obtained from Transgrid’s website.