BESS stands for Battery Energy Storage System.  This technological solution helps balance the electricity grid in real-time. Electricity flowing on the grid may fluctuate for various reasons, including weather, power station outages, grid congestion, or other factors. BESS can power the distribution network to equalize voltage levels and other parameters. However, the main problem is that the energy should be converted from DC to AC.

Busbar duty capacities refer to the ability of busbars to carry electrical current under specific operating conditions safely. These capacities are determined by the size, shape, material (mainly copper), and temperature in the system. The type of electrical current is essential too (AC or DC), as well as the level of current. All switchboards use busbars to distribute the current flow. The proper busbar insulation is the main topic.

Analysis to calculate the ampacity and/or operating temperatures of cables in various raceway systems. Scope of the analysis may also include accurate prediction of cable pulling forces is essential for the proper design of cable systems. This knowledge makes it possible to avoid under-estimated and/or over conservative design practices to achieve substantial capital savings during construction. For more information visit Cable Systems.

Studies to strategically place capacitors for voltage support and power factor correction while minimizing installation and long-term operation costs.

We provide complete analyses of project-specific problems and will investigate and determine the sensitive parameters, calculate, and present alternative solutions or offer consultation to implement an effective solution. Engineering Consulting Services uses a streamlined conceptual design process to identify multiple design concepts to the point where they can be evaluated objectively. The concept that survives the evaluation process is subjected to a detailed engineering design in preparation for system modeling.

In a Current Source Converter, the DC current is kept constant with a small ripple using a large inductor, thus forming a current source on the DC side. The direction of power flow through a CSC is determined by the polarity of the DC voltage while the direction of current flow remains the same. CSC uses thyristor valves as switching devices. It is a kind of Line Commutated Converter (LCC) because thyristor can only be switched off when the current through it passes zero, therefore, it requires line voltage for commutation. CSC-HVDC is suitable for high voltage bulk power and long distance transmission projects without the effect of capacitance along the long transmission line.

CT stands for Current Transformer, which reduces high alternating currents to a lower, measurable level. The secondary circuit is typically standardized to 1 ampere (A) or 5 amperes (A). They are commonly used in electrical systems, especially in switchboards, to monitor current and protect electrical systems. Current transformers are essential for accurate measurement and control in various applications, ranging from power grids to industrial setups.

To determine and evaluate system voltage profiles and component loading conditions, the ratings of system protective devices, and the appropriate size of the battery for a selected load duty cycle.

In the context of electrical generators, particularly synchronous generators, the D-curve refers to the capability curve, which graphically represents the generator's limits in producing or consuming reactive power (MVAr) as a function of its active power (MW) output. The curve is typically shaped like the letter "D", hence the name, and it defines the boundaries within which the generator can operate safely and reliably. It is the capability curve of a generator, where the active power output is plotted on the horizontal axis and the reactive power is plotted on the vertical axis.

DER stands for Distributed Energy Resources. Small electricity resources, located near the end-user, generate energy. They are connected to the typical public utility distribution grid. Therefore, they produce energy that the distribution network should be able to absorb. Typical DERs are wind turbines, PV, solar panels, and small hydropower plants. Other resources include battery energy storage systems, which are typically extensive facilities controlled by governments or industries.

DNP3 means Distributed Network Protocol 3. It is a set of communications protocols used between components for automation systems in the electric, industrial, and water sectors. SCADA, RTU, and IEDs utilize this protocol for communication, control, and alarming purposes.

ETAP stand for Electrical Transient and Analysis Program. It is the most comprehensive analysis platform for the design, simulation, operation, and automation of generation, distribution, and industrial power systems.
It is developed under an established quality assurance program and is used worldwide as a high impact software.

ETAP PS stands for ETAP Power Simulator package. This package is to design, analyze, and optimize electrical systems.
You can read about it here:  https://etap.com/power-simulator

ETAP RT stands for ETAP Real-Time solution.

This innovative solution is a Model-Driven Enterprise Solution.  It's a fully integrated suite of software products that provides mission-critical power management solutions, encompassing modeling, simulation, design, analysis, sizing, evaluation, planning, real-time model-based monitoring, event playback, predictive analysis, control, optimization, automation, situational intelligence, and operation.

EGM stands for electro geometric model, used to estimate the probability of a lightning strike to a structure, in the context of lightning protection systems. The primary parameter is the striking distance, which is defined as the radius. It's crucial during the design of the earthing protection system and the earthing rods.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission assists consumers in obtaining reliable, safe, secure, and economically efficient energy services at a reasonable cost through appropriate regulatory and market means, as well as collaborative efforts.  It is an independent US agency that regulates the interstate transmission of electricity, natural gas, and oil. FERC also reviews proposals to build liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals and interstate natural gas pipelines, as well as licenses hydropower projects.

FCT means Fault Clearing Time. Fault clearing time refers to the total duration it takes for a protective system to detect and eliminate a fault in an electrical system. This process typically involves a relay and a circuit breaker. Fault clearing time is a critical component of power system protection, as it aims to reduce the duration of a fault. This is essential for ensuring the safety of equipment and personnel, as well as maintaining the reliability of the power system. Different fault types need different clearing times. 

To determine step and touch potentials to evaluate shock hazards in substations or other ground mat environments.

Gas-insulated Switchgear is a type of electrical switchgear that houses high-voltage components, such as circuit breakers and disconnectors, within a grounded metal enclosure filled with a dielectric gas, typically sulfur hexafluoride (SF6). The combination of the metal enclosure and the insulating properties of SF6 gas reduces the risk of flashovers and electrical faults, thereby enhancing safety.

Studies to identify unacceptable voltage distortion and frequencies where harmonic amplification caused by nonlinear loads are present. To evaluate the effectiveness of harmonic filters and tuning reactors.

Precise control of active and reactive power flow is required to maintain transmission system voltage stability. This is achieved via an electronic converter and its ability to convert electrical energy from AC to DC or vice versa. There are basically two configuration types of three-phase converters possible for this conversion process, Current Source Converters (CSC) and Voltage Source Converters (VSC). Modern HVDC transmission systems can utilize either traditional CSC or VSC as the basic conversion workhorse.

HIL stands for Hardware-in-the-loop technology, which is used to test control software under realistic conditions with installed hardware. In the field of electricity, this simulation is used to test controller designs. The user can verify if the controller responds, and how it responds to the signal test in real-time. It is used for validating power plant models.

HMI is a Human-Machine Interface. As the name suggests, it connects a machine with a person. Typically, HMI has a touchscreen (or keyboard) through which the user can communicate with the machine and enable operator controls.

HV in electricity stands for High voltage, which refers to electrical potential at a level that can be dangerous to humans and equipment. Generally, HV is defined as any voltage exceeding 1000 volts for alternating current (AC) or 1500 volts for direct current (DC). The transmission system uses HV due to its low losses of energy, thanks to the high voltage level. Popular transmission levels include 69 kV, 138 kV, 230 kV, and higher, such as 765 kV. They are used for long-distance energy transmission. For shorter distances, 34 or 46 kV is used.

HVCB in electricity refers to a configuration of Circuit Breakers used in a High-Voltage substation. The system is used to enhance the quality of protection and can be configured in various ways, such as parallel or dual.

HRC means Hazard/Risk Categories. They are used to classify risk levels in a workplace to protect workers from arc flash hazards. The category' used ranges from 0 to 4, and 4 is the highest risk.  You can find a list of categories with their definitions in NFPA 70E standard, which is the standard for electrical safety in the workplace.

I-triple-E standard is a common term used by electrical engineers. It refers to the standards published by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, IEEE. It is the world's largest technical professional organization dedicated to advancing technology. IEEE and its members inspire a global community through its highly cited publications, conferences, technology standards, and professional and educational activities. IEEE has an active portfolio of over 1,000 standards, and nearly 500000 members around the world.

Analysis to effectively maintain power voltage and power levels to prevent overloading, brownouts, and under/over voltage conditions.

During the motor starting period, the starting motor appears to the system as a small impedance connected to a bus. It draws a large current from the system, about six times the motor rated current, which therefore results in voltage drops in the system and imposes disturbances to the normal operation of other system loads. Since the motor acceleration torque is dependent on motor terminal voltage, in some cases the starting motor may not be able to reach its rated speed due to extremely low terminal voltage. This makes it necessary to perform a motor starting analysis. The purpose of performing a motor starting study is twofold: to investigate whether the starting motor can be successfully started under the operating conditions, and to see if starting the motor will seriously impede the normal operation of other loads in the system. Read more information about Motor Acceleration Analysis.

MOD-025 refers to a NERC (North American Electric Reliability Corporation) standard. It specifically addresses the verification and data reporting of generator real and reactive power capability, as well as synchronous condenser reactive power capability. This standard ensures that accurate information about a generator's or synchronous condenser's power output is available for use in planning models that assess the reliability of the Bulk Electric System (BES). 

MSU, in the context of transformers, refers to the Main Step-Up transformer. You may occasionally encounter this term in electrical diagrams. A step-up transformer increases voltage, while a step-down transformer decreases voltage. The Main means that the transformer is connected to the grid interconnection, with, for example, 230kV voltage. 

Modbus is a client/server communications protocol used to communicate industrial electronic devices. It is a simple protocol primarily used in process control and SCADA systems. Initially, in the 1980s, it was used in programmable logic controllers (PLCs).

A Medium Voltage Distribution substation refers to a substation converting high voltage electricity from transmission lines to low level voltage, used in local distribution lines. For example, it can a substation which lowers 115 kV to 5 kV.

The North American Generator Forum is an independent, member-driven organization whose collective knowledge and expertise in the generation sector is recognized by FERC, NERC, and the electric utility industry. Through open-source collaboration and information exchange with generator industry professionals, the NAGF provides a unified voice to NERC, with the goal of enhancing the reliability, resiliency, and security of the bulk electric system.

The North American Electric Reliability Corporation is a not-for-profit international regulatory authority whose mission is to assure the effective and efficient reduction of risks to the reliability and security of the grid. NERC develops and enforces Reliability Standards, annually assesses seasonal and long-term reliability, monitors the bulk power system through system awareness, and educates, trains, and certifies industry personnel. NERC’s area of responsibility spans the continental United States, Canada, and the northern portion of Baja California, Mexico. NERC is the Electric Reliability Organization (ERO) for North America, subject to oversight by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and governmental authorities in Canada. NERC's jurisdiction includes users, owners, and operators of the bulk power system, which serves nearly 400 million people.

NTC 1340 is a Norma Técnica Colombiana, a Colombian technical standard. It establishes the nominal voltage and frequency levels for electric power systems in public service networks. It defines the nominal voltages for extra high voltage (EAT), high voltage (HV), medium voltage (MV) and low voltage (LV), in addition to specifying the nominal frequency of 60 Hz and acceptable ranges.

Studies to plot time-current curves of protective devices in the power system. The objective of the study is to protect each component against system faults and failures while selectively isolating faults with the minimum system disturbance.

NERC PRC-019 standard intends to verify that regulating controls, limiters, equipment capabilities, and protection controls installed at generation facilities are appropriately coordinated so as not to exacerbate adverse power grid conditions during a system disturbance. PRC-019 provides fairly explicit guidance for what is expected to show compliance for synchronous generator facilities. The primary requirement is that, at most, every five years, each Generator Owner and Transmission Owner in the USA with applicable Facilities shall coordinate the voltage regulating system controls with the appropriate equipment capabilities and settings of the applicable Protection System devices and functions.

PCC, the Point of Common Coupling, is the point in an electrical network where a customer's installation connects to the utility grid and potentially to other customers' installations. It's more than just an electrical 'junction'; it's a shared space where multiple users are interconnected, forming a larger electrical system. From a utility perspective, it's the point where they provide service to various customers.

PPE stands for Personal Protective Equipment. Those who work with or near electricity need to use PPE. It refers to specialized gear and clothing designed to protect individuals from electrical hazards. This is crucial for preventing injuries such as electric shock, arc flashes, and burns, and is essential for maintaining a safe working environment, especially for electrical maintenance teams.

Based on the existing failure rates and outage duration times, the objective of this study is to evaluate the probability of electrical components in performing their intended purpose adequately during the system lifetime and under the various operating conditions encountered.

The statistical availability of different subsystems within the electrical system is determined and their effects on the overall system availability is reported. Read more about Reliability & Availability Studies

RoCoF stands for Rate of Change of Frequency protection. It's used for Distribution Generation Systems, where inverters are used. It detects changes in the grid frequency and voltage level, allowing the inverter to disconnect from the grid. If the ROCOF exceeds a designed level, it indicates a potential islanding event, and the inverter is disconnected.

RTU stands for Remote Terminal Unit, an electronic device that connects a physical object to an automation system. Typical RTUs work with sensors, thermistors, and transmitters installed in the field, on a machine. RTU captures information from these devices and links it to the control or SCADA system.

Using an intelligent load flow that employs techniques to automatically adjust the power system control settings, ETAP can provide device settings to optimize operating conditions within specific system constraints.

Analysis to establish equipment rating for short circuit capabilities and relay coordination studies for better continuity of services under upset conditions. Short circuit analysis is carried out based on guidelines set by ANSI as well as IEC standards

Existing system data and one-line diagrams are used to develop a preliminary ETAP system model. The preliminary (skeleton) model is set up and tailored for various system studies. The model is then completed through job site surveys where all data pertinent to the specified studies are verified. In some cases system data is available through a third party database where ETAP Data Exchange Services can be employed to transfer or synchronize data to and from your ETAP model.

SIL stands for Software-in-the-Loop technology, which is used to test control software in a digital environment. In electricity, it is used for process simulation in power grids. Users have to build a digital model before using SIL technology in the process of technology validation. SIL enables the automatic identification of critical issues during model analysis, before the physical implementation. ETAP Digital Twin allows the use of this technology.

SC Levels in electricity refer to Short-Circuit levels, which are the amount of current (in kA) that flows in the electrical system during a fault. SC levels strongly depend on voltage levels. Depending on the system, various assets are used to protect people, cables, and lines, including fuses, circuit breakers, and other protective devices.

A Sub-Transmission substation receive power from transmission substations, connected to the generating power plants. It's an intermediary station between power plant, transmission lines and next transmission substations. It operates at higher voltages, refers to a substation converting high voltage electricity from transmission lines to the level used in transmission lines. For example, it can a substation which lowers voltage 138 kV to 13,2 kV or raises from 115 kV to 240 kV.

Shock Hazard refers to the potential for electric shock to a person that various circumstances can cause during work with electrical installations. It occurs when a person comes into contact with a voltage difference. An electrical shock occurs when the body's reaction to an electrical current flowing through it. For example, if a person touches a phase conductor without proper isolation, while standing on the ground without boots, the current will flow from the phase to the ground, potentially damaging the body.

A Shock Hazard Warning Label is a sign used to warn people about the potential for electric shock. It is a concept directly related to Occupational Safety. The electric industry must use hazard labeling according to various standards.

THD, or Total Harmonic Distortion, is a key metric in electrical engineering. It gauges the degree to which an electrical signal strays from its original form. This distortion, caused by the introduction of additional frequencies to the original one, can lead to issues in electrical devices. THD is typically expressed as a percentage, with lower values being more desirable as they indicate a cleaner and more accurate signal. The recent surge in harmonic sources has significantly increased the importance of THD in protection design, analysis, and relay settings.

TDD, or Total Demand Distortion, is used to quantify the level of harmonic distortion in a system's load current. It is typically used to assess the impact of harmonics on electrical system performance by illustrating the relationship between harmonic relative current and maximum load current.

T&D stands for Transmission and Distribution. It refers to the crucial infrastructure and processes that transport electrical power from power plants (sources where electrical energy is generated) to end-users (like plants, homes, and businesses). The transmission system carries electricity at high voltages, such as 240 kV, over long distances. The distribution system delivers energy at lower voltages to local areas and individual customers, by using transformers, lines, and electrical substations.

A 2-bar substation refers to a double-busbar substation, which utilizes two busbars to distribute energy. Main busbar and reserve busbars can be used. It's a commonly used solution to prevent power outages.