Abstract

Powder River Energy Corporation’s (PRECorp) Innovation in Energy Delivery project involves the installation of new communications infrastructure for the distribution grid throughout the entire service territory in northeastern Wyoming and southeastern Montana. Three sets of upgrades include: 1) the addition of new microwave terminals and antennas to the backhaul network between operators and the distribution grid, 2) upgrades that allow key substations to establish radio monitoring linkages with grid operators, and 3) new equipment that allows the computer platform for grid control to help integrate the communications upgrades. By increasing the ability of operators to remotely monitor and respond to grid disturbances, PRECorp expects improvements in electric reliability and reductions in operating costs and emissions from truck rolls for site visits.