Synchrophasors
What it is?
Synchrophasor technology uses monitoring devices, called phasor measurement units (PMUs), which take high-speed measurements of phase angles, voltage and frequency that are time stamped with high-precision clocks. The highspeed measurements, typically taken 30 times a second, can reveal system changes undetectable through traditional monitoring systems used in the industry.
Source. US DOE. Advancement of Synchrophasor Technology.
Source. US DOE. Advancement of Synchrophasor Technology.
Source. US DOE. Advancement of Synchrophasor Technology.
Why is it essential for a Modern Grid?
Traditional systems take grid measurements once every 2-10 seconds, while synchrophasors record 30 times per second. This data gives a detailed view of the status of the power flow on the grid, and allows for broad system situational awareness, oscillation monitoring, and equipment problem detection.
Where is it located?
Synchrophasors can be installed anywhere along grid infrastructure where power flows. This includes substations, transmission lines, and distribution lines. They are most commonly installed along transmission lines.
Deployment Program
As part of the Smart Grid Investment Grant (SGIG) and Smart Grid Demonstration Program (SGDP), DOE and partners invested more than $347 million to deploy synchrophasors throughout the US transmission system to improve system visibility and reliability. The effort increased PMUs on the system by more than 8 times by 2015 compared to 2009 levels.
How mature is the Technology?
Widely deployed | In 2009, there were under 200 synchrophasers deployed across the country. After dedicated funding for synchrophasers were included in the 2015 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, it’s estimated that there are over 1,700 synchrophasors in use.
More Information
Explore these resources to learn more about Synchrophasors.
