Electrical Substation Operations Technician (Power System Controller)

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to: Maintain the safety, security and stability of an electrical power system within a specified geographical area by controlling conditions and coordinating operations and events. A qualified learner will be able to: • Control the stability of the power distribution networks for a demarcated area through operational controls and instructions. • Analyse Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) information, identify and respond to issues and distribute system information to key receivers. • Manage power outages on a specific grid to ensure safety of personnel and equipment, and continuity of supply.

Power System Controllers play an essential role in the management and control of the country's power network. Their primary function is to maintain the safety, security and stability of the electrical power system within a specified geographical area by monitoring and controlling conditions and co-ordinating operations and events related to electrical transmission and distribution systems. Learners will typically be people who have qualified in electrical trades and have worked in electrical sub-stations. However, school leavers, Further Education and Training College and University of Technology graduates may also be trained as Power System Controllers if they are given sufficient exposure to the functioning of, and activities related to, electrical sub-stations. Qualifying learners will be employed by electrical power distribution utilities such as Eskom, municipalities and large industrial power users to manage and control the electrical power grid to allow construction, maintenance or repair work to take place and to restore and stabilise power networks in response to power outages. Customers of electrical power networks will benefit by having power restored efficiently during periods when the electrical network is subject to constraints arising from events such as equipment failure, lightning, weather conditions, fire, theft or vandalism. Without competent Power System Controllers the country's power system would be less safe and power outages would be more frequent and would last longer. This capacity is particularly critical during periods when the electrical network is subject to a number of constraints.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): RPL for access to the integrated assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and conform prior learning. Prior learning must be acknowledged by a statement of results. RPL for access to the qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements. Entry Requirements: • NQF Level 4 with Mathematics and Science.

1 .Demonstrate understanding of power systems, network control and the regulatory environment required to perform network control operations. 2. Demonstrate understanding of how stability, security and safety is achieved on a typical power system. 3. Demonstrate understanding of the power system controller's role within a control centre. 4. Control the stability of the power distribution network for a demarcated area through operational controls and instructions.