This project was part of an ongoing effort to stabilize the Northern grid. Three ABB Static Voltage Compensators (SVC) were already installed in previous projects. The current scope included a capacitor bank, master controller, 61850-based RTU, and a control building expansion to accommodate the new protection racks. The project added over 600 hard and soft points, and a Modbus connection to the new ABB master controller.

As the sole SaskPower representative on site, I collaborated closely with Dynamo Electric to tackle several challenges:

• Developing Test Methodologies: Unlike hardwired points, which could be tested point-to-point in segments, the new SCADA design required coordinating field-to-grid control center tests in a single procedure for soft points.
• Remote Location Coordination: Managing schedules during a harsh winter with rotating personnel in a remote location.
• ABB Integration: Collaborating with ABB to integrate their master controller points with our SCADA system, which was atypical for SaskPower.
• Field-Designing an IRIG-B Timing System: Including wiring and configuring IED settings in the field.
• Firmware and Relay Configuration: Uploading firmware and field-modifying relay settings with minimal internet connectivity.