Grand Opening:
Sara Filbee, Director General, Resource Processing Industries Branch, Industry Canada

Symposium Speakers and Presenters:


Dr. Bob Hanna, FIEEE, FEIC, President of IEEE Canada and IEEE Director (Region 7)
Dr. Adam Chowaniec, P.Eng., Chair, Ontario Research and Innovation Council, Ontario
Colin Clark, SMIEEE, P.Eng., Executive VP and CTO of Brookfield Power
Prof. Dr. Petar Miljanic, Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Belgrade, Serbia
Dr. Vijay Sood, FIEEE, Researcher, IREQ, Adjunct Professor at Concordia University
Dr. Frank R. Goodman, Jr., Electric Power Research Institute, Inc., California, USA
Prof. Saifur Rahman, Director, Advanced Research Institute ,Virginia Tech, USA
Scott MacDonald, Investment Director, SAM Private Equity
Rob Brandon, P. Eng , Program Manager, Distributed Generation, CANMET, NRCAN
Romano Sironi, P.Eng., Manager, Toronto Hydro, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Dale Finney, M. Eng., P. Eng., Applications Engineer, General Electric Multilin, Canada
Darren Finkbeiner, Manager, Market Entry & Analysis, IeSO, Ontario, Canada
Lawrence E. Jones, Ph.D., Account Executive, AREVA T&D, Brockton, MA, USA

Tutorial Speakers and Presenters:


Morris Uremovich, Executive Dean, Faculty of Technology and Trades, Algonquin College
Steve Finnagan, Academic Chair, Electronics & Electro-Mechanical, Algonquin College
Catherine Kerr, Smart Grids Initiative Manager, Industry Canada
Eduardo Chaiquin, CTO of Chaiquin Inc., Ontario
Franz Kropp, P.Eng., Stations Supervisor, Hydro Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Charles Sao, PhD Candidate, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Symposium

Symposium Moderator and Chairperson, by Dr. Bob Hanna, FIEEE, FEIC, President of IEEE Canada and IEEE Director (Region 7), President of RPM Engineering, Ontario, Canada

Bob Hanna's Biography
    Dr. Hanna is currently serving as President of IEEE Canada and as IEEE Director (Region 7). He has been an IEEE member since 1974 and served as IEEE Toronto Section Chair in 2002 & 2003. He was General Chair of the 2004 IEEE Canadian Conference on Electrical and Computer Engineering". He is a Fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (FIEEE), a Fellow of the Institution of Electrical Engineers (FIEE), UK, and a Fellow of the Engineering Institute of Canada (FEIC).
    Dr. Hanna is a registered professional engineer in the provinces of Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia, and a designated consulting engineer. He specializes in Adjustable Speed Drive applications, power quality studies, emergency equipment and power system analysis. In the last 30 years he has completed complex investigations in various sectors of industry including Petro-chemical, Mining, Pulp & Paper, Nuclear, Steel as well as commercial. The work conducted in these areas has resulted in 75 technical company reports, 35 technical papers including 16 IEEE transaction/conference papers. He holds B.Sc. Degree (Honors) from University of Basra, Iraq in 1971, the M. Sc. Degree (Distinction) from Queen Mary College, University of London, England in 1973, and the Ph.D. from Imperial College of Science and Technology, University of London, England in 1977, all in electrical engineering.

Official Opening by Dr. Adam Chowaniec, P.Eng., Chair of the Ontario Research and Innovation Council, Ontario
Chairman of the Board of Directors of Tundra Semiconductor Corporation, Executive in Residence at Vengrowth Capital Partners Inc.

Adam Chowaniec's Biography
On January 5, 2006, Dr. Adam Chowaniec officially began his job as chair of the Ontario Research and Innovation Council.
He is also chairman of the board of directors of Tundra Semiconductor Corporation and executive in residence at Vengrowth Capital Partners Inc. He is the past chair of the Information Technology Association of Canada board of directors. In 2005, he was appointed to the Natural Sciences and Engineering Council of Canada by the Privy Council of Canada.
Dr. Chowaniec began his career in 1975 as an assistant professor at Acadia University and in 1976 became a member of the scientific staff of Bell Northern Research in Ottawa. From there, he moved into engineering management at Nortel Networks. In 1983 he joined Commodore International, based in Westchester, Pennsylvania, where he became vice-president of technology and was responsible for the development of the Amiga personal computer.
     In 1986, he returned to Ottawa to become president and chief executive officer of the semiconductor firm Calmos Systems. Calmos Systems was acquired by Newbridge Networks Corporation in 1989. Calmos was renamed Newbridge Microsystems. Under this new structure, he served as both its president and as a vice-president of Newbridge Networks. In December 1995, he was the founding CEO of Tundra Semiconductor Corporation, which is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange.
     Dr. Chowaniec has served on numerous boards of directors in the United States and Canada, including Amiga and GEAC Computer Corporations. He currently serves on the boards of Bel Air Networks Corporation, SiberCore Technologies Inc., Liquid Computing, Gridway, and Microbridge Corporations. He is also involved in a number of local business and community initiatives and his commitment and participation has positioned him as a key spokesperson for the high tech community in the Ottawa area. Dr. Chowaniec is frequently quoted in local and national press and is often a guest on national business TV programs. He was the chair of the Ottawa Economic Development Corporation and member of the Ottawa Partnership from 1999 to 2001. He also serves on the boards of the National Research Council’s Industrial Research Assistance Program and is the vice-chair of the Ottawa Health Research Institute. He is the vice-chair of the Museum of Nature’s national fund raising campaign.
     Dr. Chowaniec has been recognized for his leadership, business excellence and innovation. In 1998, the Ottawa-Carleton Research Institute honoured him with its prestigious Chairman's Award. Also in 1999, he received the Gold Business Person of the Year Award from the Greater Chamber of Commerce. He holds a Master's degree in Electrical Engineering from Queen's University (Canada), as well as both a Bachelor of Engineering and a Ph.D. from the University of Sheffield (England). His affiliations include the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers and the Association of Professional Engineers of Ontario.                                                                                                         TOP È

Historical Presentation: Nikola Tesla's Contribution to AC Power Systems and Electrical Engineering by Prof. Dr. Petar Miljanic, Academician, Head of the Department of Technical Sciences, Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Belgrade, Serbia

Abstract
    Tesla's invention of the rotating electromagnetic field/induction motor and polyphase system of alternating current for generation, transmission, distribution, and use of electrical power will be described. Teslas’s most important patents will be discussed. Several historical photos taken in 19th century, illustrating the state-of-the-art in Electrical Engineering of that time will be shown and commented.

Petar N. Miljanić's Biography
    Petar N. Miljanić received his Dipl. Ing. degree in Electrical Engineering from University of Belgrade in 1953, and his Ph.D. degree from Serbian Academy of Sciences in 1956. Since 1957 he has worked as a professor at the University of Belgrade, and also as a researcher at the R&D Institutes Nikola Tesla and Mihailo Pupin, Belgrade. He was elected a corresponding member of the Serbian Academy of Sciences in 1968 and a full member in 1972. He was a pioneer of Power Electronics in Yugoslavia. He was the first to establish a course on Power Converters, at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, University of Belgrade. After retiring in 1992 from the University of Belgrade, he has remained active in graduate studies.
    On several occasions since 1960 he was a visiting research officer at the National Research Council of Canada, in Ottawa, where he designed high-precision measuring apparatus.
Among his numerous scientific contributions special place belongs to the method of current comparators for alternating and direct current and its applications in the most accurate measurements. Measuring instruments invented and designed by Dr. Miljanić are used in numerous laboratories throughout the world. His papers are not possible to overlook in scientific literature dealing with precise measurements.
    Dr. Miljanić is presently Secretary of the Department of Technical Sciences and member of the Presidency of the Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts.                                                               TOP È

Keynote Presentation: Development of the AC Power System: The Foundation of Progress by Colin Clark, SMIEEE, P.Eng., Executive Vice-President and Chief Technical Officer of Brookfield Power and of the Great Lakes Power Trust, Gatineau, Québec    

Abstract
    Electrification has been called the greatest engineering achievement of the twentieth century. Alternating current has been the platform for the spectacular growth of electric power systems over more than 100 years. In this presentation the speaker traces the evolution of the Ac system from its beginnings in the 1880s, through its rise to dominance, to the innovations that are reshaping electric power technology today.

Colin Clark's Biography
    Colin Clark is Executive Vice President & Chief Technical Officer of Brookfield Power Corporation and its subsidiaries. Mr. Clark was appointed to his present position in 2004. He was formerly President & CEO and a Director of Brookfield subsidiaries Great Lakes Power Limited and Lake Superior Power, and Senior Vice-President, Operations of Brookfield Power. In his current position Mr. Clark is the senior executive responsible for all engineering and technical affairs of the Corporation.
       Mr. Clark has had broad experience in the electric power generation, transmission and distribution business. His duties have included engineering and senior management in all areas of utility operations, covering construction, maintenance, system operations, and development. Mr. Clark has also had executive responsibility or direct management responsibility for the design and construction of many electric power generation, transmission, and distribution projects. He has served on many associations, committees, and task forces in the electric utility industry in North America. Mr. Clark joined Brookfield Power in 1997 from Ottawa Hydro.
       Colin Clark holds a B. Sc. (Eng.) in Electrical Engineering from the Faculty of Applied Science at Queen's University in Kingston, Canada. He is a Registered Professional Engineer in Ontario, a Licensed Professional Engineer in British Columbia, and a Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). He is also a Founding Member, Vice-Chair and Director, Canadian Hydropower Association (CHA), a former Director of the Canadian Electricity Association (CEA), a former Director of the Association of Power Producers of Ontario (APPrO), a Member of the International Hydropower Association (IHA), a Member of the Canadian Dam Association (CDA), a
Founding Member and former Co-Chair of the Ontario Waterpower Association (OWA), and a Member of Conseil International des Grands Réseaux Électriques (CIGRÉ).                                 TOP È

HVDC Transmission - past, present and future by Dr. Vijay Sood, FEIC, Researcher at IREQ (Hydro-Québec), Montreal and an Adjunct Pro­fessor at Concordia University, Montreal, Québec

Abstract
     The presentation will cover the subject of High Voltage DC Transmission. It will touch upon the origins of the technology of mercury-arc based converters in the early 1950 till the present time, based on thyristor converters, and explore the future generation where voltage source converters, based on IGBTs, will be the used. The unique features of HVDC transmission will be discussed with examples.

 Vijay Sood's Biography
    Vijay K. Sood obtained a Ph.D. degree from University of Bradford, England in 1977. Since 1976, he has been a Researcher at IREQ (Hydro-Québec) in Montreal. He is also an Adjunct Pro­fessor at Concordia University, Montreal where he teaches post-graduate courses in Power Elec­tronics, HVDC transmission and FACTS. He is a Fellow of the Engineering Institute of Canada (1999) and Fellow of IEEE (2006). He was the editor of the IEEE Canadian Review magazine from 1996-2006 and presently is the Secretary of IEEE Canada. He is author of the textbook “HVDC and FACTS Controllers - Applications of Static Converters in Power Systems”, pub­lished by Kluwer Academic Publishers in 2004.                                                                                             TOP È

Creating the Technology Basis for the Distribution System of the Future
by Dr. Frank R. Goodman, Jr., Principal Technical Manager, Distribution Automation, Electric Power Research Institute, Inc. (EPRI), Palo Alto, California, USA

Abstract
    Advanced distribution automation (ADA) represents the confluence point for power distribution industry change and challenges. Examples of the forces being brought to bear on distribution utilities are: upgrades to aging systems, availability of improved distribution system technology, optimized reliability, customer outage intolerance, deregulation, need for improved customer service options, and management of distributed generation. The brunt of these forces has not yet fully come to bear on the industry, leaving distribution system operations on the brink of fundamental change.
    The ADA vision is to create the technology basis for the Distribution System of the Future by transforming traditional single-function distribution systems into multifunctional power and information exchange systems with increased reliability, improved performance (lower system losses), better economics, better power quality, and more customer service options. Achieving this vision will require capturing the benefits of new capabilities in power electronics, information technology, distributed computing, and simulation.

The following are the principal strategic drivers for ADA:
•   Improved reliability and power quality
•   Reduced operating costs
•   Improved outage restoration time
•   Increased customer service options
•   Integration of distributed generation and storage
•   Integration of customer systems

This paper describes the status and needs in the five key areas of ADA development endeavor to create the Distribution of the Future:
•   Electronic/Electrical Technology Development for the Distribution System of the Future
•   Real-Time Sensor/Monitoring Systems for ADA
•   Communication Systems and Standards for ADA
•   Advanced Distribution System Controls
•   New Distribution Circuit Configurations and Reconfiguring Capabilities
    The need for international coordination and collaboration will also be discussed, including fresh results from EPRI’s Second International Workshop on Advanced Distribution Automation and the Distribution System of the Future, which was held in Montreal on October 23-25, 2006, with participation from key worldwide programs on advanced distribution technology..

Frank R. Goodman's Biography
    Frank Goodman created and manages the EPRI program on Advanced Distribution Automation. He serves as chairs for international working groups for IEC and IEEE on communications standards for integration of distributed generation into electric power systems. Prior responsibilities at EPRI, Frank Goodman managed programs in distribution systems and renewable energy.
Previously at Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, he served with positions in distribution design, transmission planning, and new energy resource development.
Frank Goodman served as a lecturer in electrical engineering at three universities. He was the lead author of two chapters in Solar Cells and Their Applications, published by John Wiley. Author or coauthor of numerous technical papers.
He received R&D 100 Award for high-performance photovoltaic cell. Has two patents in power electronics.
Frank Goodman obtained BS (with high honors), MS, and PhD degrees in Electrical Engineering from University of California at Santa Barbara; and he obtained an Executive MBA from Pepperdine University. He is a Registered electrical engineer in California, and a Senior member of IEEE.  TOP È

Intelligent Distributed Autonomous Power Systems (IDAPS) by Professor Saifur Rahman, Director, Advanced Research Institute ,Virginia Tech, USA

Abstract
    The electric power system is an enabling infrastructure that underpins our fuel supply, water and wastewater systems, transportation networks, telecommunication services, healthcare, and safety and economic well-being of a nation. However, the recent man-made and natural disasters - such as the northeastern USA and eastern Canada blackout in August 2003 and Hurricane Katrina in August 2005 - have exposed the vulnerabilities of the electric power grid, and their inability to recover quickly from failures.
    We have developed a framework for the Intelligent Distributed Autonomous Power Systems (IDAPS) that will contribute to the resiliency of power systems during both normal and outage conditions. IDAPS represents a network of loosely connected power systems that are cellular in structure. Each cell comprises local distributed generation (DG) units and loads that are connected to the same distribution circuit within a substation. Each cell is referred to as an Autonomous Power System (APS) that can operate autonomously under normal operating conditions, and can island itself from the grid if its upstream transmission/distribution circuits fail. Under non-emergency conditions, the IDAPS operation is designed to facilitate demand side management and allow electricity trading within the boundaries of cell. Excess electricity from DG units - such as electric vehicles and solar cells or wind turbines - can be sold and bought within a cell. As a result, residential or small commercial customers will have the choice of buying electricity from the cheapest DG available locally. This represents a supply-driven market where customers can decide which of their deferrable demands will be serviced based on the real-time cost of electricity. Under outage conditions when electricity from the grid is unavailable, customers will be able to purchase electricity from the available DG units within their cell based on the price posted online. It must be noted that only critical loads, or loads that belong to customers who are willing to pay more will be served, given that the supply of electricity from DG units is limited.
   Central to this topology is an agent-based messaging system that will enable DG units to communicate with each other, as well as with sensors, controllers and loads. A messaging system based on Web-Services is proposed for implementing the IDAPS framework. We will utilize extensible mark-up language (XML) over HTTP to ensure portability and interoperability among systems and protocols. The IDAPS Web-Services will be used for controlling all aspects of DG operations, as well as for hosting an e-trading platform for a residential/commercial electricity market within a feeder or a substation.

Saifur Rahman's Biography
    Dr. Saifur Rahman is the Joseph R. Loring professor of electrical and computer engineering and the director of the Advanced Research Institute at Virginia Tech. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Electrical & Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and a director of the IEEE Board of Governors. He is serving as the Vice President of the IEEE Publications Board in 2006. Dr. Rahman is a member of the Editorial Board of the Proceedings of the IEEE. His research interests include alternate energy systems, infrastructure studies, electric load forecasting and power system planning. He has authored over 300 technical papers and presentations in these areas.
    Dr. Rahman has more than 25 years of teaching and research experience in renewable energy technologies and critical infrastructure studies. Combined with a recent research focus on critical energy infrastructure studies, and application of WiMax technologies for reliable and affordable communication in remote areas, Dr. Rahman provides a unique perspective on disseminating the results of energy and information and communication technology research to potential users in government, academia, and industry. He also has a strong interest in solar energy as a key building block for “last mile” solutions to make the Internet available in developing countries for delivering education, health care and agriculture extension services at the local level.                                  TOP È

Investing in the "Smart Grid" – A Venture Capitalist’s Perspective by Scott MacDonald, Investment Director, SAM Private Equity

Abstract
     A leading venture capitalist focused on the energy technology sector will provide his insight into the emerging investment theme of the “Smart Grid”. This session will also provide insight into what venture capitalists are looking for in the energy sector and where the investment dollars are flowing..

Scott MacDonald's Biography
    Scott MacDonald is an Investment Director with SAM Private Equity and is a key member of the North American investment team. With offices in Zürich and Montreal SAM Private Equity is a leading global venture capital fund dedicated exclusively to the cleantech sector. SAM Private Equity currently oversees a portfolio of over 30 cleantech companies and is making new investments from its second fund.
    Prior to joining SAM, Scott held the position of Managing Director at OPG Ventures Inc., the venture capital subsidiary of Ontario Power Generation (“OPG”) and was responsible for leading and managing equity investments in privately held energy technology companies.
    Previous to OPG Ventures, Scott worked for a Toronto-based corporate finance and investment banking firm assisting a number of energy technology companies secure financing, negotiate strategic joint ventures, and has advised on initial public offerings and merger and acquisition transactions. In addition, Scott worked for ACF Equity, an early-stage venture capital company focused on investing in information technology companies.
    Scott graduated with a Bachelors degree from McMaster University and an MBA from Dalhousie University. He currently serves as Chairman of RuggedCom Inc., as a Director of Solicore Inc. and as an observer on the board of SoftSwitching Technologies. He is a member of the North American Advisory Board for the CleanTech Venture Network, an industry association that brings together all stakeholders in the area of cleantech, a volunteer director of Gymnastics Canada and is an elected voting member of the Canadian Olympic Committee for the 2005-2009 quadrennial.                   TOP È

Grid Integration of Distributed Generation, The Federal Government’s Role by Rob Brandon, P. Eng., Program Manager, Distributed Generation, CANMET Energy Technology Center, Natural Resources Canada

Abstract
    In the last four years Natural Resources Canada has funded a coordinated program in Distributed Energy including a new area, Grid Integration, centered in CETC’s Montreal laboratory. Grid integration activities have included international collaboration on the development of Smart Grid concepts combined with a focus on changing Canadian codes and standards that currently pose institutional barriers to technology deployment. The presentation will present an overview of the Federal Government activities in grid integration, distributed generation and demand response.

    The presentation will identify the Federal departments and activities that are underway, and then compare the Canadian activities with programs in Europe, the United States and Japan focusing on the issues of integration of distributed generation. Some examples will be given showing how stakeholders with Federal Government support have enable new distributed generation with advanced protection and control concepts to be deployed.

Rob Brandon's Biography
    Rob Brandon is a professional engineer who has worked in energy engineering over the last twenty years for a number of public and private organisations, including Rolls Royce, the AES Corporation and the Prince Edward Island Energy Corporation. He graduated from the University of Southampton in 1972 with a B.Sc in Aeronautical Engineering. He was the founding president of the Canadian District Energy Association, and has served as Secretary/Treasurer of the Canadian Wind Energy Association. He joined the CANMET Energy Technology Centre, Ottawa in 1994 and currently manages the Distributed Generation program.                                                                                                                  TOP È

Smart Grid Architecture with Changing Infrastructure by Romano Sironi, P.Eng., Manager of Policy & Standards, Toronto Hydro, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Abstract
    Toronto Hydro is the largest distribution utility in Ontario. Toronto Hydro is embarking in major investments to rejuvenate its ageing distribution system. Several initiatives are underway that will progress Toronto Hydro towards a Smart Grid vision and transform its distribution system into a highly intelligent system. Our customers must understand the importance of energy conservation and work with the utility in connecting embedded generators.

Romano Sironi's Biography
    Romano joined Toronto Hydro in 1978 as System Controller and in 1981 he was promoted to Chief System Controller.  Starting in 1986 he became in short succession, supervisor of the Meter, Low Voltage Services and Overhead Engineering sections.  In 1989 he was chosen to lead the development and implementation of an ambitious 25-year 13.8 kV conversion program. In August 1998, he became the Integration Leader for the amalgamated Electrical Distribution Division and is currently the Manager of Policy & Standards.  Prior to joining Toronto Hydro, he worked as high school teacher and electrical technician.
    Romano is a recognized expert on all conversion, DSC, and TSC issues.  He has a superior and comprehensive knowledge of planning, construction and operation of overhead and underground distribution systems.  He has been responsible for introducing new methods and work practices for installing a modern, reliable and safe distribution system, including acceptance by employees and property owners.  These initiatives have gained international attention in the utility industry.  He operates within a framework of generally defined corporate goals and develops strategies and policies for Toronto Hydro; very often navigates in uncharted territory.
    Author of many papers dealing with conversion of overhead and underground distribution systems; trenchless technology applications; 5 major integration projects; Power System Asset Strategy documents; and the Toronto Hydro Conditions of Service.                                           TOP È

Wind Farm Smart System Protection and Stability Using Peer to Peer Communications by Dale Finney, M. Eng., P. Eng., Applications Engineer, General Electric Multilin, Canada

Abstract
    Protection of wind farm electrical systems presents many unique challenges. The grid tie and wind turbine generators provide multiple sources of fault currents to be considered. Collector feeders become isolated ungrounded systems during faults due to separation from the centralized collector bus reference ground. Ground faults on feeders will result in unfaulted phase voltages rising to line levels. In addition, severe transient overvoltages can be produced, which can degrade insulation, resulting in eventual equipment failure.
    This paper reviews the overall requirements for comprehensive windfarm protection. It also focuses on the particular problem of feeder ground faults. A novel, yet simple solution is presented that makes use of peer-to-peer (GOOSE) messaging via the IEC61850 protocol. The characteristics of the GOOSE message are discussed with respect to speed and reliability and communications architecture is presented. The performance of the resulting protection scheme is quantified.

Dale Finney's Biography
    Dale Finney began his career with Ontario Hydro where he worked as a protection and control engineer. Currently, Mr. Finney is employed as an Applications Engineer with GE Multilin in Markham Ontario.
His areas of interest include generator protection, line protection, and substation automation.
    Mr. Finney has a Bachelor of Engineering degree from Lakehead University and a Master of Engineering degree from the University of Toronto.
    He is a registered professional engineer in the province of Ontario and is a member of the IEEE.                                                                                             TOP È

Network Operator’s Perspective of DG & Smart Grids by Darren Finkbeiner, Manager, Market Entry & Analysis, Independent Electricity System Operator (IeSO), Ontario, Canada

Abstract
The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) balances the supply of and demand for electricity in Ontario and then directs its flow across the province's transmission lines. As the province moves towards a more distributed system of generation, there are a number of benefits and implications that the system operator must consider. Mr. Finkbeiner will address transmission and connection related considerations and describe improvements that have been made to facilitate more distributed generation in the provincial electricity system.

Darren Finkbeiner's Biography
    As Manager of Market Entry & Analysis, Darren manages the department responsible for operational oversight of the market and single point contact for market entry. Previously as a NERC certified Power System Operator Darren was part of the IESO/Ontario Hydro team responsible for operating Ontario’s power system. Darren also worked as Manager – Design Authority responsible for IESO change management and as a member of the IMO’s market launch team and Market Development responsible for the introduction and evolution of the competitive wholesale electricity markets in Ontario.
    Darren Finkbeiner has been with the IESO (formerly the IMO) since 1999. Prior to that, Darren Finkbeiner has been with the IESO (formerly the IMO) since 1999.  Prior to that, Darren was employed by Ontario Hydro for 12 years, in a number of operational roles at the Clarkson System Control Center , JC Keith TS, Niagara River Control Center and the Sir Adam Beck generating complex.                                                                                                                                                    TOP È

Information Technology for the Electric Power Industry: Evolving Needs, Challenges and Opportunities by Lawrence E. Jones, Ph.D., Account Executive, AREVA T&D, Brockton, MA, USA

Abstract
     The electric power industry and information technology are both in constant transformation, the latter moving at a much faster pace. Optimal utilization of the infrastructures that keep the lights on is a much more complex task today than it was when computers were introduced in power grid operations as a result of the first major blackout in the U.S. in 1965. Industry restructuring, the formation of electricity markets, and new regulatory and energy policies result in new business models and business practices for grid operation. Examples of such policies include the recently passed Energy Policy Act (EPAct)2005 in the US, and Renewable Portfolio Standards, many parts of the US and other countries to meet Kyoto requirements and the growing public awareness of climate change issues.
    Today information technology is the backbone for successful operation of power grids and is the basis for meeting the challenges and changes in the power industry. IT presents new opportunities for research, entrepreneurship and innovation. More and more control center operators are asking for increased operational foresight and would like the ability to "predict" system behavior which requires advanced computational tools. The industry is also faced with a looming aging work force problem in the next 3-5 years. This resulting lack of skilled human capital could also increase the use of information technology but also pose operational risks.This lecture will review closer several of the factors related to this nexus of electric power-information technology. Examples of advances being made to address some of the challenges and take advantage of IT to ultimately mitigate operational risks (financial and physical) and ensure grid reliability will be discussed.

 Lawrence E. Jones's Biography
     Lawrence has 15 years experience in the power industry. He joined AREVA T&D Inc. (formerly ALSTOM T&D) in 2000, and is currently Account Executive. He previously held other positions including Manager, Utility Practice and Strategic Initiatives including Wind Power and Decision Support Systems for Control Centers; Director of the Transmission & Distribution Optimization and Partnering (TOP) Program formed as a result of the August 14, 2003 Power Blackout in US and Canada; and was Senior Product Marketing Manager responsible for solutions and products involving Information Technology for real-time operations and control of power systems and electricity markets.
    Prior to joining AREVA, Lawrence worked as a consultant for ABB in Sweden in 1991,1993 and 1999. He was a visiting scientist at Electricite de France in Clamart, France in 1997. He is co-founder of the International Workshop on Large-Scale Integration of Wind Power and Transmission Networks for Off Shore Wind Farms, and the International Symposium on Distributed Generation: Power Systems and Markets Aspects. He served as the Chairman of the Industry Task Force on Developing Stability Models for Wind Power Plants established by Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), the Independent System Operator in Texas, USA. Dr. Jones also is a member of The Atlantic Council of the United States' task force working to develop the "Marshall Plan for Energy and Water in Developing Countries.
    Lawrence is Affiliate Assistant Professor, University of Washington and Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). He received MSc., Licentiate of Engineering, and Ph.D degrees in electrical engineering from the Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm Sweden, in 1994, 1997 and 1999, respectively. He has given more than 200 speeches, panel presentations and lectures at technical conferences and universities around the world.             TOP È

 Tutorial

Welcome Statement by Morris Uremovich, P.Eng., M.B.A., Executive Dean, Faculty of Technology and Trade, Algonquin College, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Morris Uremovich's Biography
     Morris Uremovich is the Executive Dean, Faculty of Technology and Trades at Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology, appointed in July 2001.
He has been a member of the Ontario College system for over 25 years acting in the capacities of Professor and Manager and has served as Lecturer to the Faculty of Engineering at Lakehead University in the area of Industrial Engineering.
    Morris holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree and a diploma in Mechanical Engineering Technology from Lakehead University, a Master of Business Administration degree and an Advanced Graduate Diploma in Management from Athabasca University.  
    He is a professional engineer with standing in the Province of Ontario.  Prior to entering academia, Morris was engaged in business and industry in engineering and project management with the railway, pulp and paper, and construction sectors.
    He has a long history of credit in developing hardware/software solutions and is actively involved in national, provincial and local committees and organizations focused on meeting the combined needs of the academic and business and industry sectors.                                                             TOP È
 

Official Opening by Steve Finnagan, M.B.A., Academic Chair of Electronics and Electro-Mechanical Studies Department, Faculty of Trade and Technology, Algonquin College, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Steve Finnagan's Biography
    Since 1991 to present, Steve Finnagan is the Academic Chair of the Electronics and Electro-Mechanical Studies Department at Algonquin College. Steve also served as the Contract Manager of the Electro-Mechanical Studies Department from 1990 to 1991. He is a member of the Canadian Electrical Code technical subcommittee, Canadian Standards Association, for Section 56, Fiber Optics and    Section 60, Electrical Communications Systems.
    He is a Committee member of the Board of Directors Ottawa Photonics Cluster. Steve was also in the Past Board of Directors, Ontario Electrical League as well in the Past Board of Directors, Canadian Fire Alarm Association. Steve is leading the Algonquin College International projects in Philippines, Thailand, South Africa, and India (campus opened 2003). In 1996, Steve served as the Chairman of Provincial Network Cabling Specialist Curriculum Advisory Committee. In 1995, he developed the first provincial curriculum for Network Cabling Specialist program. From 1994 to1995, Steve served as the Chairman of Provincial Electrical Curriculum Advisory Committee, and he was a member of the Provincial Electrical Curriculum Advisory Committee from 1990 to 1997. He developed and coordinated Electrical Engineering Technician Program in 1993. From 1990 to 1997, Steve was the Coordinator of Construction and Maintenance Electrician Program, from 1988 to 2000 a Professor of Electricity, Construction and Maintenance Program at Algonquin College. He was an Electrical Contractor from 1985 to 1988.
    Steve obtained his Executive Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) from Queen’s University, Ontario in 2005. He has Extensive Industry training in Fiber Optics and CAT 5 installation and certification 1992, 1995. He obtained his Industrial Electrician in 1989, Master Electrician in 1988, Interprovincial Construction and Maintenance Electrician in 1983, Government Theory Award Recipient-Construction and Maintenance Electrician in 1983, and Mechanical Systems Technician in 1982.                                                                                                                                                           TOP È

Canadian Business Opportunities for Smart Grid Architecture by Catherine Kerr, Smart Grids Initiative Manager, Industry Canada

Abstract
    The Smart Grid is the application of modern information, communication, and electronics technology to the electricity delivery infrastructure. The realization of the Smart Grid is a collaborative process involving Utilities, Regulators, Equipment Vendors and the General Public. The Industry Canada Smart Grids Initiative aims to identify Canadian Business opportunities through creating networks for demonstration projects, showcasing available technologies, and advancing distributed generation interconnection technology.

Catherine Kerr's Biography
    Catherine Kerr is an officer with Industry Canada, Resource Processing Industries Branch, focusing on the electric power sector and distribution automation. She has been working with the federal government for 5 years (previously with Natural Resources Canada).
      Educational background: Honours B.Sc, currently pursuing an M.A. in Public Administration.                                                                                                       TOP È
 

The Challenge of Automatic Middle Voltage Power Restoration
by Eduardo Chaiquin, CTO of Chaiquin Inc., Ontario, Canada

Abstract
    The Evolution of Fault Detection & Restoration: From the time of series distribution networks to modern meshed networks, faults always reliably happened. However, the method of detection and strategy for restoration has evolved from seeing the light out, to getting a customer call, to SCADA, and now a new generation of fault passage detectors with manual to fully automated restoration using graph theory.

Eduardo Chaiquin's Biography
    Eduardo Chaiquin -- Electrical Engineering (Power) graduate from Buenos Aires University, Argentina in 1982, with more than 15 years of experience in SCADA and telemetry systems for electric and water utilities, plus in fire alarm and for the oil and gas industries.  During the last five years he has been working as a consultant contractor in SCADA, and inventor developing a patented solution for non-destructive, self-healing SMART Automatic Fault Location and Power Restoration for medium voltage grids, employing concepts from Graph Theory.                                                                                                                   TOP È

Protection and Control Issues with Distributed Generation by Franz Kropp, P.Eng., Stations Supervisor, Hydro Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Abstract
    As distributed generation systems are switched on / off, or in and out of the grid, power flow changes and PNC settings need to adapt. Learn what type of interconnection controller works in differing situations, and how some standards help or are deficient. Also, as a distributed generator, learn what is needed to reliably connect to grid, and as a utility, become exposed to the issues and learn how to deal with them as a growing number of distributed generators coming knocking at your door

 Franz Kropp's Biography
    As Supervisor of Stations Engineering at Hydro Ottawa, Franz Kropp oversees a group of engineers and technicians that are responsible for providing support to maintenance and capital programs related to substations and protection and control.  This includes developing and maintaining technical specifications and standards for substation equipment and apparatus, as well as protection philosophies and distributed generation connections.  Franz has had in depth and hands on experience in the design, construction and commissioning of high and medium voltage substations and associated protection systems in addition to many distributed generation connections within the Hydro Ottawa distribution system.  Prior to joining Hydro Ottawa  Franz worked in the power generation industry as an electrical and mechanical engineer.  Franz’s experiences include operations support, design and commissioning of distribution connected, hydro-electric facilities to transmission connected generation facilities such as biomass, thermal and combined cycle cogeneration. Franz holds a B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering from Queen’s University and is presently working on his Master’s in Electrical Power Engineering through the University of Waterloo.  Franz represents Hydro Ottawa on the CEA Technologies Inc. (CEATI) Life Cycle Management of Substation Equipment and Apparatus (LCMSEA) Interest Group.  He is a Registered Professional Engineer in the Province of Ontario, and a member of CIGRE.              TOP È

Converter Fed Microgrids: Challenges and Solutions by Charles Sao, PhD Candidate, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Abstract
     This talk first outlines the challenges of microgrids that are supplied by DGs with power electronic interfaces. It then focuses on one challenge, the lack of a control scheme that allows converters to supply the microgrid in both grid-connected and islanded operation.  Several solutions to this problem are presented, including the one developed by the presenter. The solution developed by the presenter allows a converter with a simple inductor interface and the ubiquitous dq-frame current control to operate in both grid-connected and islanded modes.  It also assures instantaneous sharing of a common load by the converters on a microgrid.  The talk ends with a comparative discussion of published solutions.

Charles Sao's Biography
    Charles Sao started his power engineering career as a co-op student at BC Hydro in 1997. He joined BC Hydro as a full time employee upon obtaining his BASc in degree in electrical engineering from the University of British Columbia in 1999.  He came to the University of Toronto in 2001 for graduate studies and obtained his MASc degree in 2002.  He has been a doctoral candidate here since 2003.  His research interests include modelling and control of power converters, converter fed power networks, industrial drives and renewable energy systems.                  TOP È

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