SaskPower Distribution Modernization Program

Lead Proponent

SaskPower

Project Background

This project modernizes SaskPower’s electrical grid by investing in central monitoring and control from the newly established Provincial Distribution Control Centre, located in Regina, SK.

SaskPower upgraded existing substation and feeder sensors, deployed telecommunication devices, and integrated information from their Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) system. The project enables future integration of other intelligent devices on the feeders and at distributed generation and energy storage. Data will be leveraged as part of the Advanced Distribution Management System (ADMS) and AMI systems. In addition, the project supports real-time management of the network and provides input to support Asset Management, supports integration of future distributed clean electricity generation and promotes workforce efficiency.

Results

SaskPower operates a large electrical grid spanning 159,000km with the lowest density in Canada (3 customers/km). The Distribution Modernization Program supports voltage reduction and power flow optimization which reduces system losses and enable integration of renewable power generation. SaskPower was able to install smart devices at over 88% of their substations, install and test a centralized system management software and obtain centralized data. The upgrades will enable the optimization of voltage for urban customers and improve power condition on rural lines resulting in lower electricity use and improved power quality, resulting in significant GHG reductions and economic benefits for customers.

Benefits to Canada

The project will support voltage reduction and power flow optimization initiatives that will reduce system losses, and enable integration of renewable power generation. Reduced electricity use equates to significant greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions, particularly given the Proponent’s high carbon generation fleet. Reduced energy use also results in positive economic benefit to customers.

Next Steps

Saskpower will continue to integrate smart devices into their centralized management system, which will serve as the brain center for the entire provincial distribution system. From proactively avoiding outages, to seamlessly connecting and managing customers DERs including renewable generation and EVs, to balancing load and generation in real-time on each and every circuit in our system, the future of Saskatchewan’s distribution system will evolve and improve immensely. This will allow SaskPower to decarbonize the grid and enable their 550,000 distribution customers to take an active part in building the new, clean energy future for Saskatchewan.