Grid Control
Modern grid operations depend on two tightly connected capabilities: comprehensive monitoring and precise, reliable control. MCCS brings both together in an integrated, modular platform that allows operators to move seamlessly from insight to action.
Within MCCS, Grid Monitoring continuously collects, consolidates and contextualises operational data. Grid Control builds directly on this foundation, transforming real‑time information into targeted control actions. This close interaction ensures that every decision is based on up‑to‑date system visibility and can be executed immediately and safely.
Designed as an open, modular system, MCCS allows Grid Control to integrate seamlessly with other functional modules and external systems—today and in the future. This flexibility is essential as grid sizes, asset types and operational complexity continue to grow.
Grid Control offers system operators and data managers this needed flexibility and enables them to interact directly with grid equipment. Users can issue control commands, apply manual corrections, manage command, feedback and notification locks, adjust parameters and add contextual comments. An intuitive and efficient user experience supports fast, confident operation while reducing the risk of incorrect entries or accidental actions.
Use Case
Grid Control introduces a new way of managing the grid by tightly coupling control capabilities with monitoring data.
Grid Monitoring collects and structures all relevant operational information, which Grid Control then uses to enable interventions. Manual remote control allows operators to act directly on grid devices in response to dynamic conditions, unforeseen events or specific operational requirements—applying human judgement exactly where it’s needed.
Benefits
Grid Control eliminates rigid datasets, single‑purpose tools and manual, fragmented processes. Instead, it integrates deeply with other MCCS modules, enabling operators to control additional elements across the value chain – including substation door locks and auxiliary systems such as diesel generators.
At the same time, Grid Control provides an adaptable and therefore future‑proof foundation for continued growth. New interfaces, digitised processes, cross‑company workflows and advanced ways of visualising and combining information can be introduced incrementally. What exists today is only the starting point.
In addition to this transformative approach, Grid Control includes all core SCADA capabilities, such as:
- Real‑time monitoring and visualisation
- Improved operational efficiency
- Fault detection and faster response times
- Remote control of equipment
- Predictive maintenance support
- Enhanced energy management
- Data logging, reporting and analysis
The Technology Behind It
Grid Control is based on a robust and secure technical foundation, including:
- Mapping system commands to field‑level protocols (IEC 60870‑5‑104 via real‑time data and an OT/IT gateway)
- Orchestration and monitoring of control commands (e.g. execution validation and runtime monitoring)
- Execution of complex command sequences (e.g. step commands, PoW deactivation, switching programs)
- Comprehensive logging of control actions through integration with Operational Protocol systems
- Operational stability through command queueing, duplicate prevention, fail‑safe logic and fallback handling for inconsistent measurements
- Switch‑fault protection and additional safety mechanisms
How does it work?
The Grid Control solution aims to manage all relevant control commands that are issued to grid and asset components within the system. That is why Grid Control is divided into two modules that are mutually dependent:
- Validation
Validation checks that the control sequence is correct, e.g. user privileges, control sequence initiator, interlocking state of the asset itself to execute the control sequence etc. - Execution
Execution sends the correct control sequence, receives status updates and documents the execution in order to adhere to compliance rules.
