IEC standards have long held a prominent position in the European power grid sector, serving as the de facto guidelines for grid operations. However, the high cost and complexity associated with implementing these standards have hindered their full adoption. Fortunately, a solution has emerged to address these challenges.
Smart Grid Forums, an independent conference organizer that specializes in the European power grid sector, has been organizing meetings on various IEC standards for over a decade. These meetings aim to support grid operators in evaluating the business case for implementing the standards, conducting pilot projects to test their technical feasibility, and educating utility workers about their benefits. The ultimate goal is to facilitate large-scale deployment of these standards to support the energy transition.
In recent years, it has become increasingly evident that these standards are interconnected and mutually dependent on each other. While utilities have been working with them in isolated silos, the reality is that effective interworking between these standards is essential for seamless and reliable grid operations.
To address this issue, Smart Grid Forums is hosting a joint meeting that brings together all three utility IEC standardization communities in one venue. This unique event provides each group with a dedicated case-study program that delves into the latest lessons learned from implementing each standard. Additionally, participants in the meeting will have the opportunity to access information and networking opportunities related to the other standards, fostering greater collaboration and understanding among utility professionals.
The week-long event begins with three Fundamentals Workshops, which provide participants with foundational knowledge in IEC 61850, IEC CIM, and IEC 62443. These workshops serve as an essential starting point and equip attendees with the necessary knowledge to fully engage with the conference.
The main three-day conference offers a series of high-level plenary sessions that address the macro issues faced by the standardization community. These sessions provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with implementing the IEC standards. Following the plenary sessions, the conference breaks out into three technical tracks focused on utility case studies. These tracks offer a deep dive into practical examples and real-world applications of the standards, further enhancing participants’ understanding of their implementation.
The event concludes with a Communication briefing, specifically designed to help technical teams effectively translate their engineering knowledge into organizational priorities. This briefing equips participants with the tools and language necessary to influence board-level decision-making and secure long-term investment in grid modernization efforts.
The meeting boasts an impressive lineup of over 70 speakers, including industry experts and leaders in the field. These speakers share their insights and expertise on various topics, such as global standardization review, working group improvements, workforce engagement, virtualization, and cybersecurity.
Past participants have lauded the event for its high-quality presentations and relevant topics. They have found it to be an invaluable opportunity for learning and networking. Attendees have praised the conference for providing a refreshing insight into the latest developments and offering a platform for exchanging ideas and developing solutions.
For those interested in participating, the Smart Grid Forums team can be contacted directly for more information. The team can be reached via phone or email and is ready to provide details about registration and participation.
In conclusion, the upcoming joint meeting organized by Smart Grid Forums represents a significant milestone in the adoption and implementation of IEC standards in the European power grid sector. By bringing together the various utility IEC standardization communities, this event aims to foster collaboration, share best practices, and accelerate the deployment of these standards. With a diverse lineup of speakers and an extensive program, participants can expect to gain valuable insights, deepen their understanding, and contribute to the ongoing transformation of the European power grid.