Siemens boosts grid availability with comprehensive transparency
Siemens innovative electrification hardware and software will bring a new level of transparency to the low-voltage grid of Swiss power utility IBC Energie Wasser Chur (IBC). Around 40,000 residents in the greater Chur area will benefit from a secure, advanced supply of electricity. The energy transition poses new challenges for grid operators, including distributed energy feeds, increasing loads, and high demands on voltage quality and supply reliability. A secure, data-driven solution that avoids extensive retrofitting is critical for reliable supply. This is where Siemens’ technology has a big impact.
Easy installation into existing grid infrastructure for maximum reliability
Over the next two years, IBC will equip 200 transformer stations and 290 distribution cabinets with smart, bidirectional Sentron 3NA6 COM low-voltage high-performance (NH) fuses and Sicam Enhanced Grid sensors from Siemens. The Electrification X IoT suite is a central application that provides continuous access to grid data, analyses based on key performance indicators, and automated alarm messages. This increases responsiveness and improves control. One of the biggest benefits of the solution is that it’s easy to integrate into existing infrastructure without costly installation. At the same time, it enables small to large energy suppliers to create data-driven transparency, optimize operational decisions, and make future expansion measures more efficient.
“Availability and reliability are paramount for every grid operator. Data-driven transparency enables proactive operation and is essential for the resilient grid of the future. With our technology, we can increase usable grid capacity by up to 30 percent,” said Stephan May, CEO of Electrification and Automation at Siemens Smart Infrastructure. “We look forward to supporting Chur on its path to climate neutrality by 2040.”
Fit for the future: maximum cybersecurity and supply reliability
Encrypted data transmission is ensured through a certificate-based protocol that meets the highest cybersecurity requirements. Using the Distribution Grid Monitoring software, which is part of Electrification X, grid operators can detect load peaks early on, take targeted countermeasures, and plan investments efficiently. Continuous monitoring and automated alarming increase supply reliability, reduce downtimes, and improve maintenance efficiency.
“The energy transition is causing major bottlenecks in terms of capacity utilization and voltage quality. With Siemens’ technology, we can push ahead with digitalization at grid level 7 in an economical, safe, and reliable way, while keeping future supply power needs firmly in focus,” said Radoje Krstic, Protection Technology Specialist at IBC.
By 2040, Chur aims to become a climate-neutral city in the field of energy.
Approximately 88 percent of electricity already comes from renewable sources.
