Resilience is a term we use often in the electric utility world. Defined as the capacity to recover quickly, a resilient electric system is critical to a thriving community. In an ongoing effort to keep member outage times to a minimum, MidSouth Electric Cooperative recently installed fault location isolation and service restoration software on our grid.
Designed to automatically detect, locate and isolate interference to restore electricity to as many members as possible after a circuit fault, FLISR temporarily redirects power from alternative sources until repairs are completed—what once could take up to two hours is now accomplished in seconds.
When damage caused by lightning, fallen trees, car accidents and the like occur, FLISR automatically detects the interruption in flow, predicts the approximate location of damage and isolates it using automatic circuit reclosers on either side of the affected area.
Utilizing smart devices throughout the system, FLISR makes model-based recommendations about how to backfeed power to surrounding meters until crews can repair damage. The entire process assists dispatch and line crews—enabling restoration efforts and rerouting efforts to begin sooner.
The addition of fiber internet to the MidSouth EC portfolio in 2019 evolved from the original FLISR upgrade plan. Fiber-optic cable is the most reliable form of communication between the devices along the MidSouth grid and ultimately back to headquarters for monitoring.
In previous years, radio or cellular transmissions were the primary methods of device communication, often subject to signal interference during severe weather. Offering internet access to members through the fiber network was an added bonus to the necessary grid upgrade.
Working toward a more robust, reliable and efficient electrical distribution system is an ongoing process. MidSouth EC is dedicated to ensuring our communities have every advantage available within our control. Remaining at the forefront of industry technology ensures we’re not only ready to weather storms but to power the way of life we all enjoy and the future of our prosperous communities.
Terms
Circuit Fault: Impeded electric flow, often due to interference or damage.
Recloser: Self-controlled, high-voltage smart device used to automatically detect and interrupt faults, then attempt to restore power after a short delay.
Backfeed: The flow of electric power in reverse to the typical direction.
