Electric Insights: Introducing the Grid Event Signature Library

The Grid Signature Event Library energizes utility and researcher understanding of grid behavior by providing access to datasets of waveforms from grid operations. Credit: Adam Malin/ORNL, U.S. Dept. of Energy

Library of operating data enables analysis of complex electric grids.

The Grid Event Signature Library at Oak Ridge National Laboratory offers waveform datasets that help analyze and predict electric grid behaviors. With contributions from various utilities, the library facilitates <span class="glossaryLink" aria-describedby="tt" data-cmtooltip="

machine learning

Machine learning is a subset of artificial intelligence (AI) that deals with the development of algorithms and statistical models that enable computers to learn from data and make predictions or decisions without being explicitly programmed to do so. Machine learning is used to identify patterns in data, classify data into different categories, or make predictions about future events. It can be categorized into three main types of learning: supervised, unsupervised and reinforcement learning.

” data-gt-translate-attributes=”[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]” tabindex=”0″ role=”link”>machine learning models to forecast and mitigate grid malfunctions, enhancing grid reliability and safety.

Introduction to the Grid Event Signature Library

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have opened a new virtual library where visitors can check out waveforms instead of books.

The Grid Event Signature Library is an open-access online collection of datasets containing waveforms, which are visual representations of behaviors of the electric grid. Utilities and research institutions contributed anonymized data including voltage, current, and frequency information collected by operating equipment. So far, more than 350 users worldwide have utilized the library, which provides a vital understanding of an increasingly complex grid.

Enhancing Grid Management Through Advanced Data Analysis

“Researchers can search different variables, like the type of sensor or a description of the event – for example, a waveform that represents a blown transformer and its effect on transmission line voltage,” said ORNL’s Aaron Wilson, who manages the tool.

A recent paper described the datasets and their applications. Machine learning can be trained to recognize waveforms that provide an early warning of equipment malfunction, enabling power system operators to prevent blackouts, wildfires, and damage to the power grid.

Reference: “The Grid Event Signature Library: An Open-Access Repository of Power System Measurement Signatures” by Aaron J. Wilson, Ali Riza Ekti, Jim Follum, Shuchismita Biswas, Christabella Annalicia, Jhi-Young Joo, Omer Aziz and Jamie Lian, 24 May 2024, IEEE.
DOI: 10.1109/ACCESS.2024.3404886

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is a multi-disciplinary research facility located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Established in 1943 as part of the Manhattan Project, ORNL is now the largest science and energy national laboratory in the United States Department of Energy system. It conducts cutting-edge research in areas such as materials science, nuclear science, energy production, and environmental sustainability. ORNL is known for its advanced facilities, including the High Flux Isotope Reactor and the Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility, home to some of the world’s most powerful supercomputers. The laboratory collaborates with industry, academia, and other government agencies to address critical scientific and technological challenges, driving innovation and fostering economic growth.