PNM adds new protective relay technology to grid

Published on December 28, 2018 by Kevin Randolph


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PNM, a wholly-owned New Mexico utility subsidiary of PNM Resources, recently added a new type of protective relay to its high-voltage transmission lines to enhance the reliability and functionality of its grid.

Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) developed the technology. PNM is the first utility worldwide to implement it on its high-voltage transmission lines.

Before implementing the new technology on a 345kV transmission line in New Mexico, PNM and SEL tested it under real-life operating scenarios with numerous variables using digital simulations.

The new equipment features a standardized design, eliminating the need for technicians to learn and troubleshoot various design configurations. This speeds the process of restoring power to customers following an outage and leads to lower maintenance costs to customers.

“We are proud to be the first utility to fully integrate this grid technology across our system,” PNM Resources Chairman, President and CEO Pat Vincent-Collawn said. “This project is a clear example of how investment in technology to modernize and advance our infrastructure can improve the service we provide to customers while reducing costs.”