Quantifying the Reliability of a PMU Network

The wide area measurement system (WAMS) is gradually becoming an important guarantee of security and stability in smart transmission grids. In the utility industry, WAMS is sometimes referred to as a PMU (phasor measurement unit) network, as synchronized PMUs are the most crucial elements in collecting real-time monitoring information. A PMU network provides much better observability and controllability in smart grid operations. However, like any other physical system, a PMU network itself can fail. The consequences of PMU network failure are serious and can include a large blackout. Therefore, the reliability of PMU networks should be quantitatively evaluated and assured.