Powder River Energy Corporation Powder River Innovation in Energy Delivery Project Final Project Description
July 15, 2014
U.S. Department of Energy
Powder River Energy Corporations (PRECorps) Innovation in Energy Delivery project involved the installation of communications infrastructure for the distribution grid throughout the entire service territory in northeastern Wyoming and southeastern Montana. Three sets of upgrades included 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) supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) equipment upgrades that enable improved integration with the new communications infrastructure. By increasing the ability of operators to remotely monitor and respond to grid disturbances, PRECorp has improved electric power reliability and reduced operating costs and emissions from truck rolls for field visits.