GridEye/FNET includes more than 300 frequency disturbance recorders located across the U.S. electricity network. (Credit: University of Tennessee, Knoxville)
ORNL researchers, working with colleagues at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, developed and now operate the first North American power grid frequency monitoring network to cover the entire grid. The GPS-synchronized system, called , uses more than 300 Frequency Disturbance Recorders that check the grid many times per second, gathering data about the frequency, phase angle, and voltage of the power signal found at ordinary 120-volt electrical outlets.
Previously, the grid was mostly monitored at electrical substations by individual companies. The system conveys quick alerts to power companies about grid disruptions, even outside their service areas. Alerts about grid events are sent to reliability organizations, power companies, and federal regulators. The system provides a wide-area entire interconnection picture of grid performance for the first time.
The platform can almost immediately identify grid disturbances, their locations and extent. It also offers graphic visualization of grid oscillations. GridEye enables utilities to reduce blackouts but has also opened the door to a variety of grid research, from analyzing past grid disturbances to monitoring for federal compliance requirements.
- GridEye is composed of more than 300 Frequency Disturbance Recorders
- Monitors sample at 1,440 points per second
- GridEye recorders can capture finer changes even at the 120-voltage level