Grounding System Design and Analysis Using IEEE 80

8-9:45 a.m.

AC substation grounding systems are designed and implemented to provide a path to earth for electric currents under normal and abnormal system conditions. Their primary purpose is to reduce the risk of electric shock to a person, along with protecting equipment.

This presentation will provide an overview of the theory, design process and considerations when designing and evaluating air-insulated AC substation grounding systems. We will discuss the purpose and importance of the grounding system; highlight relevant, commonly referenced IEEE industry standards; discuss personnel safety considerations; and showcase key components of a grounding system. We will also discuss the necessary data to establish the basis of design, along with the analysis and design methods using a simple grounding study example based on IEEE Standard 80-2013.

Flood Concerns and Mitigation in Electrical Substations

2-3:45 p.m.

There have been numerous large-scale storm events over the past decade that have crippled the electric grid for portions of the country. In the wake of these storms, many electric utilities have taken a closer look at their systems to explore how to protect their consumers from loss of power during future extreme weather events.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has performed many flood studies for substantial portions of the country, and it has developed maps that plot the expected elevations of floodwaters versus the likelihood of storm occurrence. Using these recommendations, utilities can develop plans to protect their assets and make the grid more resilient. However, substation design is a specialized form of engineering that sometimes requires implementation of nontypical solutions.

Multiple methods can be employed to minimize impacts from major storms, with varying levels of environmental impacts, construction costs and community outreach implications. We will present a step-by-step process to help determine which electrical concerns and constraints apply to your station, and what could be the most effective and efficient solution for you.