Optimising electrical substations

Issue 6 2023 Government and Parastatal (Industry)

Electrical substations create a critical midpoint in power transmission and distribution systems, playing a key role in keeping power systems safe and reliable. Similar to other industries, the power industry is currently undergoing a massive digital transformation, and substation management is moving toward automation and intelligence.

How to maximise efficiency, as well as maintain security for sites and staff, are the paramount concerns for substations as they update and upgrade their video security systems.

To address these concerns, and to boost automation and intelligence in electrical substation management, Hikvision has created a portfolio of solutions. These solutions combine smart video technologies, including high-resolution cameras, thermal imaging capabilities, and AI to provide reliable security protections, while enabling efficient operations and timely maintenance for substations.

More automation for efficiency and maintenance

Powered by AI analytics, Hikvision solutions can be deployed to monitor critical assets and equipment status at substation sites, keeping operations and maintenance running smoothly and efficiently.

• Critical asset monitoring – A set of positioning, PTZ and covert network cameras installed at energy substations deliver panoramic and detailed imaging of critical assets such as transformers, isolating switches and control panels; providing real-time status updates, and verifying if they are running correctly.

• Accurate equipment temperature measurement – Infrared thermography is a key technology for electrical equipment inspection. Hikvision’s thermal cameras are designed to detect whether equipment at substations is functioning normally and whether operating temperatures are within safe limits in real time.

• Intelligent inspection – AI powered video imaging systems enable intelligent inspections, enhancing safety and efficiency in substations. This intelligent approach allows for online planning, real-time response, and remote checks, reducing time and labour costs while providing round-the-clock coverage

Enhanced protection and personnel safety

Hikvision offers smart cameras, radar units, and other advanced tools for substation safety management. Real-time detections and quick alerts from the video security system enable fast incident responses and serves to reduce risks and costs. These products also help protect the well-being of employees.

• Perimeter protection – Hikvision helps ensure complete protection for substation perimeters and critical areas, 24/7, alerting staff to potential security breaches.

• Smart entrance and exit control – Access to workplace areas can be restricted to authorised employees or contractors by installing swing barriers with built-in access controllers or facial recognition terminals, minimising loss and other hazards.

• Personal protective equipment (PPE) detection – Hikvision’s remote PPE detection employs AI-powered video imaging to verify whether helmets and other protective gear are in use. This helps improve the safety of staff and increases compliance with industry regulations.

Insights with centralised management

With the HikCentral management platform, Hikvision’s solution features an all-inclusive dashboard for intuitive and visualised data presentation. The dashboard equips operations teams with a panoramic view and key analytics, displaying on-going site operations and real-time inspection status with detailed information and data indexing. This facilitates better decision making and enhances operational efficiency.


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