Reclamation Information Sharing Environment (RISE)

Protection systems are subject to regulatory testing requirements that help ensure proper operation. Historically, Reclamation has relied on offline testing and measurement to meet compliance. However, with the widespread adoption of microprocessor protective relays and advancements in battery monitoring systems, online data from protection system components is readily available. This research piloted an in-house solution using commercial hardware to perform online monitoring of instrument transformers and protective relays at three unique pilot sites. The solution demonstrated the ability to satisfy regulatory requirements, detect issues quickly, reduce the need for offline testing, and improve the accuracy and consistency of compliance data. A comprehensive commercial battery monitoring system was installed at one pilot site to evaluate its capability to improve reliability and decrease maintenance effort. While this battery monitor does help ensure reliability, certain longevity issues may reduce the return on investment for some Reclamation facilities.