IEEE Delivers 1815 DNP3 Standard for Power Systems Interactions

IEEE has announced the authority of the 1815 Distributed Network Protocol (DNP3) standard for electric power systems communications. The new standard, which improves appliance interoperability and strengthens security protocols, was fast-tracked for achievement and was delivered in only seven months. Programmed for final publication in July 2010, IEEE 1815 is expected to play a important role in the development and exploitation of Smart Grid technologies.

IEEE 1815 is a collaboratively developed, flexible framework that is the base for achieving better device interoperability and security. The robust, multi-layered protocol specifies an agile, forward-looking architecture enabling better optimized and more secure information gathering, exchange, and use, particularly in managerial control and data achievement (SCADA) systems. Expanding on widely used industry protocols, the comprehensive standard also preserves previous significant infrastructure investments by enduring backward friendly with existing object models, while incorporating emerging Smart Grid and other new technologies. Newly ratified as IEEE 1815, the protocols will benefit from the wide support, proficiency, and resources that IEEE offers, providing a basis for the continued deployment of Smart Grid technologies.

The accelerated exploitation of Smart Grid technologies, as well as thousands of new and legacy device installations in process automation settings like the electric utility, energy, and water industries, dictated the need for IEEE 1815. IEEE, in combination with the DNP Users Group, fast-tracked the protocol’s sustained development and approval. The standard passed precise evaluation by each group before being submitted to a diverse pool of more than 100 IEEE balloters.