Svenska kraftnät, the Swedish state-owned electricity transmission system operator, has introduced a groundbreaking digital tool named BerIT, aimed at enhancing the safety protocols of its workforce. This advanced digital mechanism focuses on the precise registration and monitoring of voltage measurement values, reflecting a significant step towards digitization in the sector.
BerIT is engineered to offer a comprehensive overview of thousands of step and touch voltage measurements. These measurements are critical for ensuring safety and reliability in power transmission operations. The system operates on a Geographical Information System (GIS) platform, which is poised to integrate additional features in the foreseeable future. Among these features is the incorporation of low-voltage maps, providing digital information about low-voltage grids that remain within the ambit of Svenska kraftnät's infrastructures. This capability will enable the company to swiftly identify facilities potentially vulnerable to high voltage impacts during unforeseen operational disturbances, such as those induced by power line failures.
A visual representation shows different scenarios under which BerIT functions: the 'red line' delineates potential voltage between a live part and the ground in an earth fault situation, such as when a lightning strike occurs. The 'blue line' indicates contact voltage when there's a potential difference between points of contact, for instance, when a person touches a conducting pole during such an earth fault. Lastly, the 'green line' signifies step voltage, depicting potential differences between two points on the ground during a fault event.
Kasewa Celepli, the project manager at Svenska kraftnät, explained the purpose and objectives of BerIT in a recent company statement. He described it as a cost-effective solution specifically designed to satisfy the company's needs for meticulous monitoring and data collection. By digitising segments of the step and touch measurement processes, the tool allows for efficient analysis and responsive actions based on the acquired information, thus reinforcing the security measures in place.
Svenska kraftnät is also eyeing longer-term advancements with BerIT. They aim to introduce Artificial Intelligence functionalities that could gather and scrutinise data from various inputs, providing predictive insights into potential risks associated with unauthorised or hazardous installations. Such AI-driven analyses could further suggest preventive measures, curbing the chances of dangerous electrical events effectively.
Through its forward-looking strategy, Svenska kraftnät has projected a ten-year horizon for achieving these goals. This vision includes leveraging AI for the automated collection of information relevant to operational safety and aiding in the preparation of comprehensive operating permit applications.
This initiative by Svenska kraftnät marks an important milestone in utility safety and efficiency, showcasing a blend of cutting-edge technology and strategic planning to address evolving operational demands and safety standards within the sector.
Source: Noah Wire Services