The future of digital substations: Insights from KEMA Labs
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In the rapidly evolving world of electric substations, digital transformation is leading the charge, promising significant advancements in efficiency, reliability and safety.
The latest episode of the podcast of KEMA Labs (a CESI Group division), recorded within the semi-anechoic chambers of its Milan laboratories, dives deep into this topic, offering valuable insights from industry veterans. KEMA Labs’ podcast series regularly features expert discussions on cutting-edge innovations shaping the energy sector.
In this second episode, Antonio Boccuni, Marketing and Strategic Tools Manager at KEMA Labs, sits down with Alessandro Bertani, Director of the Global Business Unit for Services & Smart Technologies at KEMA Labs. With decades of expertise in consulting, testing, inspection, and certification for energy transmission and distribution, Alessandro provides a unique outlook on how digitalization is transforming electric substations.
Revolutionising electric substations
The conversation opens with a look at how the digital shift is revolutionising electric substations.
Alessandro reflects on his early days as a technician, noting the profound changes that have unfolded over the years. Today, the emphasis is on enabling full remote control of substations, improving data transmission, and supporting real-time data sharing across devices and locations.
What defines a digital substation?
A digital substation converts binary status and analogue measurements into digital data in a seamless, reliable manner. This new approach delivers a host of benefits, including reduced capital expenditures by eliminating redundant hardware. Traditional transformers give way to stand-alone merging units, while thousands of copper wires are replaced with fibre optic cables.
This shift not only reduces the physical footprint of substations by up to 50% but also accelerates commissioning while boosting safety for the workforce.
Key challenges and considerations
While the merits of digital substations are evident, Alessandro highlights the critical importance of interoperability and data protection. The use of IEC 61850 standards ensures consistent design, functionality, and data management, but the real value lies in achieving interoperability – where devices from multiple vendors function seamlessly together.
Cybersecurity also plays a pivotal role. Digital substations must safeguard the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of data. Standards like IEC 62443 and IEC 62351 provide essential guidelines to manage security in industrial settings, ensuring that communication protocols are shielded against cyber threats.
Looking toward future innovations
Looking ahead, Alessandro anticipates the rising importance of virtual models, or ‘digital twins’. These digital replicas allow operators to simulate substation behaviour under extreme conditions, assess component ageing and proactively prevent potential failures. Such advancements offer unprecedented insights, enabling preventive measures before issues arise.
KEMA Labs remains at the forefront of these innovations, backed by IEC 61850 certification to uphold the highest standards of interoperability and data protection. As a clear sign of their commitment, KEMA Labs will participate in the upcoming Smart Grids Forum in 2025, where they will showcase their latest developments and collaborate with industry leaders to further shape the future of energy transmission and distribution.
About the authors
Alessandro Bertani is the Director of the Global Business Unit for Services & Smart Technologies at KEMA Labs, and has decades of expertise in consulting, testing, inspection, and certification for energy transmission and distribution.
Antonio Boccuni is the Marketing and Strategic Tools Manager at KEMA Labs.
About the company
KEMA Labs, a division of CESI, is a global leader in independent testing, inspection, and certification services for the electricity industry. With facilities worldwide, KEMA Labs combines proven methodologies with cutting-edge technology to test grid equipment, from medium to ultra-high voltage, ensuring compliance with stringent performance and safety standards.
