Accuracy Assessment of Medium Voltage Smart Grid Sensor Systems - A New Approach

Voltage and current sensors, also known as non-conventional or low-power instrument transformers, offer significant benefits which will prove essential in facing the growing application challenges of the evolving grid. As this newer technology has fundamentally different operating characteristics than its predecessor technology, a well thought out approach to validating operational sensor systems is essential. Lack of standardization of sensors and sensor system components and communications, widely varying device specifics and performance ratings, and a lack of tried-and-true compatibility all lead to many opportunities for error in the outcomes realized in using these systems. Whether used for protection, measurement, or control applications, a greater understanding of concepts such as accuracy, uncertainty, and precision, and the variety of factors which can affect these in real world deployments, is essential. In this panel session we will discuss sensor device and system considerations, best practices for validating sensor systems and their performance for various applications, and real-world results from employing a holistic approach to system validation. Discussion of actual sensor component and system testing outcomes realized will provide valuable insights which will be useful when planning deployments of this technology in grid applications.