Conference Reports News

CIGRE SC B5 2025 Osaka Colloquium

The event was held at the Osaka International Convention Center. It brought together global experts to discuss the future of protection, automation, and control systems (PACS) in the rapidly transforming power sector. The event focused on three preferential subjects: IEC 61850-based interoperability of IEDs, PACS life cycle performance and longevity, and best practices enabled by modern protection IEDs.

PS1 emphasized interoperability, with papers addressing off-site IEC 61850 engineering frameworks, Itaipu’s process bus experience, and multivendor interoperability testing in Japan. Notably, discussions included generative AI for simplifying system configuration and proposals for standardized GOOSE and sampled values message configurations.

PS2 concentrated on life cycle management, highlighting integrated stability controllers for Japan’s high-voltage networks, retrofitting of relay panels, and progress toward full digitalization of distribution substations. Contributions also examined redundancy strategies, maintenance challenges, and new methods for ensuring reliability and longevity, such as MPLS-TP-based differential protection and life cycle management approaches for specialized applications like drilling vessels.

PS3 showcased revised principles enabled by modern IEDs, including new schemes for microgrid fault detection, advanced differential protection, remedial action schemes to prevent blackouts, and cybersecurity risks for microgrids. Case studies covered digital substation monitoring, asset management practices, and advanced algorithms for transformer and line protection.

A technical tour to the ongoing Osaka Expo was organized the day after the colloquium.