The upgraded system comes with several new features.

“With the enhanced EMS (EMS II), we can better integrate new energy sources more effectively and keep the power grid stable. This is crucial for achieving our net-zero goal,” Goh Chia Jin, Assistant Director in the Energy Management Systems Department of EMA said.

“For consumers, a stable power system means they will continue to enjoy the same reliable power supply for all their daily needs.”

The system now uses a solar forecasting model that takes into account various sources of data, including real-time, island-wide solar irradiance data and satellite images, to forecast solar photovoltaic (PV) output more accurately. This allows EMA to take pre-emptive actions to manage solar intermittency and balance electricity supply and demand.

The EMS II comes with expanded capabilities to manage energy storage systems (ESS) as well. When there are fluctuations in power supply, the system is able to send signals to the ESS to charge or discharge as needed. This helps in ensuring a stable supply to meet the ebbs and flows of electricity use. In the past, the EMS could only monitor and control conventional power generators such as power plants.

Another feature of the EMS II is intelligent alarm processing. “In times of power disruptions, the system can sieve through the large amounts of data and prioritise them based on severity and urgency. This helps the system operators to respond and decide on the solutions swiftly,” Chia Jin explained. This reduces the downtime and boosts system reliability for consumers.

As with all computer systems, the EMS II is not immune to cybersecurity threats. It now includes features that guard against cyberattacks. For instance, it has a detection and response tool that monitors and collects data from the power network to flag up and respond to cybersecurity threats.

For critical infrastructure like the power system, these new features could not have come at a better time.

Reflecting on the journey, Chia Jin shared, “Bringing the EMS II to fruition was not without its challenges. However, we persevered and turned the project into a reality. Everyone in the Power System Control Division, including myself, is committed to our role as the Power System Operator to ensure reliable power supply for our nation’s needs.”