scope:

This standard applies to power utility automation systems with the core part of substation automation systems (SAS). It standardizes the communication between intelligent electronic devices (IEDs) and defines the related system requirements to be supported. The specifications of this part refer to the communication requirements of the functions being performed in the substation automation system and beyond and to the related device models. All known functions and their communication requirements are identified. The description of the functions is not used to standardize the functions, but to identify communication requirements between Intelligent Electronic Devices within the substation, between substations (e.g. for line protection) and between the substation and higher-level remote operating places (e.g. network control centers) and maintenance places. Also interfaces to remote technical services (e.g. maintenance centers) are considered. The general scope is the communication requirements for power utility automation systems. The basic goal is interoperability for all interactions providing a seamless communication system for the overall power system management. Standardizing functions and their implementation is completely outside the scope of this standard. Therefore, it cannot be assumed a single philosophy of allocating functions to devices. To support the resulting request for free allocation of functions, a proper breakdown of functions into parts relevant for communication is defined. The exchanged data and their required performance are defined. The same or similar intelligent electronic devices from substations like protective and control devices are found in other installations like power plants also. Using this standard for such devices in these plants facilitates the system integration e.g. between the power plant control and the related substation automation system. For some of such installations as wind power plants, hydro power plants and distributed energy resources IEC 61850 according to edition 1 had been already defined and published.