This innovation made it possible to continue the project to transform the substation into a full digital smart substation despite travel being postponed. The project aims to digitalize the Serbian grid\u2019s substations and to test the digital technology that is essential for the massive integration of renewable energy sources. Serbia\u2019s geographical position makes it one of the main electricity hubs in Eastern Europe.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n The innovation provides a solution to balancing security and project continuity. Several alternative solutions could be put in place to cope with travel being postponed. In order to continue the project to digitalise a substation for EMS, the Serbian TSO, and despite the current context, Issam Kifouly, the engineer leading the project, had the idea of filming the substation with a 360\u00b0 camera. Thanks to EMS teams\u2019 collaboration, we were able to get footage of the whole substation switchyard, power supply, telecom and control rooms. Once the video had downloaded, RTE international experts were able to visit the substation virtually and begin their study.<\/p>\n This project consists, among other things, of digitalising a 110 kV substation near Belgrade using technology similar to that tested at RTE\u2019s Blocaux site in Picardy. It is one of the major investments implemented by EMS to modernize its grid. Serbia is situated right between Eastern and Central Europe. It facilitates interconnection from EU countries \u2013 such as Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria and Croatia \u2013 to non-EU countries \u2013 such as Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania and Macedonia. With the support of the European Union and thanks to the Agence Fran\u00e7aise de D\u00e9veloppement for funding this project, the digitalisation of this substation will confirm the success of the digital substation\u2019s technological progress. The first deliverables were recently completed, and the study should be finished at the end of the year.<\/p>\n First of all, digitalising a substation offers an immediate advantage. It optimises and secures the operation of existing facilities. This new technology manages transits in real time and ensures optimum performance at all times. The grid is also much more versatile and responsive to constraints and the multidirectionality required for the increasing integration of discontinuous renewable energy sources. As Serbia is a hub for electricity trade, this real-time control capacity will contribute to enhancing security of supply in Europe.\n<\/p>\n ”\u00a0We were able to see the structure and components of the substation in detail. We then discussed our differences of opinion and our views. The 360\u00b0 video clarifies any doubts and allows us to make informed progress.” This success convinced Issam Kifouly to consider the use of virtual tours even after the travel ban has been lifted.<\/p>\nBalancing security and project continuity<\/h3>\n
Cloning the digital technology of the Blocaux substation<\/h3>\n
The digital substation, between flexibility and efficiency<\/h3>\n