UNY Substation Switchgear Replacement & Power System Analysis Software Upgrade

The project at the University of British Columbia (UBC) involves replacing all of the high voltage electrical distribution equipment that powers the majority of the campus. The use of ETAP design software allows for easy integration of real-time substation monitoring, as it already utilizes the digital twin concept. Schneider Electric's acquisition of ETAP influenced UBC's decision to integrate Schneider's EcoStructure Power Operation and ETAP for simulation and analysis.


Challenges

This project, which emerged from a feasibility study in 2018, involves replacing all of the high voltage electrical distribution equipment that powers the majority of the University of British Columbia (UBC) campus.

  • Substation – Campus Main Utility
  • Reliability – Old MV Switchgear
  • Safety – Remote breaker operation & Simulation
  • Efficiency – Data analysis

Why did the customer choose ETAP & Schneider Electric as a partner?

UBC's use of ETAP design software allows for the easy integration of real-time substation monitoring, as the software already utilizes the digital twin concept, which facilitates a seamless transition from design to operation. Schneider Electric’s acquisition of ETAP influenced UBCs decision to integrate Schneiders EcoStructure Power Operation and ETAP for simulation & analysis. 

  • Early adopter of ION Enterprise/PME
  • Long term relationship with end user
  • SE National Sales & Digital Power groups strong collaboration won MV gear and software upgrade
  • SE Digital Power team identified the opportunity early, matching end user' needs
  • UBC long term user of ETAP software.
  • Local presence and support

Benefits

The customer benefits of this solution include a future-proof solution based on the latest industry standards, a single pane view for the overall electrical control system, interoperability with third-party equipment, and cyber security.

  • Future proof solution, based on latest industry standards
  • Single Pane view for overall Electrical Control System.
  • One vendor – SE Hardware & Software
  • Interoperable with third party equipment (e.g. SEL)
  • Cyber Security

Equipment Upgrade List

Schneider Electric medium voltage switchgear

ION9000 + SEL protection Relays
GPS clock – Time Synch
EPO (PME) & PQ Performance
ETAP Design, Simulation & Predictive Analysis

University of Columbia Sign at Campus in Vancouver

University of Columbia Sign at Campus in Vancouver

Substation at University of Columbia, Vancouver, Canada

UNY Substation at University of Columbia, Vancouver, Canada