Definition
A real-time monitoring and control system used by electric utilities and grid operators to supervise the bulk electric system. SCADA systems collect data from remote terminal units (RTUs) and intelligent electronic devices (IEDs) installed at substations, generation plants, and other grid facilities — including voltages, current flows, breaker positions, and equipment status — and transmit it to the Energy Management System (EMS) in the control room. Operators use SCADA displays to view one-line diagrams of the power system, remotely operate switches and breakers, and issue real-time control commands to generators. NERC Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) standards impose strict cybersecurity requirements on SCADA systems because unauthorized access or control could threaten bulk electric system reliability.
Topic Deck
Grid Operations
Source
FERC Pro Forma OATT / LGIP
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