Short Definition
A SCADA system (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) is used for the higher-level monitoring, operation and control of technical installations. In the energy sector, it centrally consolidates operational data from systems such as PV plants, battery energy storage systems (BESS), substations, switchgear and generators.
SCADA systems at a glance
- A SCADA system visualises measurements, operating states, alarms and events from one installation or multiple sites.
- Depending on its configuration and access control concept, authorised users can operate components, issue switching commands or specify setpoints.
- Time-critical control loops and protection functions usually remain within local controllers, programmable logic controllers (PLCs) or protection devices.
- A SCADA system does not automatically include economic or energy optimisation logic comparable to that of an EMS.
How does a SCADA system work?
Field devices and local controllers record measurements and operating states. These may include active power, reactive power, voltage, current, frequency, BESS state of charge, switch positions, device availability and fault messages.
The data is transmitted to the central SCADA level either directly or via local controllers, Remote Terminal Units (RTUs) and communication gateways. Depending on the application, protocols and interfaces such as Modbus TCP or RTU, OPC UA, IEC 60870-5-104, IEC 61850, DNP3 or manufacturer-specific interfaces may be used.
The SCADA system visualises the information and processes alarms and events. Alarms can be prioritised, acknowledged and documented with timestamps. Depending on the architecture, operational data is stored within the SCADA system itself or in a connected historian or separate database.
Through the user interface, authorised users can, for example, start or stop components, change setpoints or issue switching commands. User permissions, documented approvals and operator logs ensure traceability. Technical interlocks, plausibility checks and safety-related operating limits are usually implemented additionally at the local controller or device level.
Time-critical control loops and protection functions are executed locally and should remain effective even if the connection to the central SCADA system is lost. Defined fallback or fail-safe strategies can be implemented for communication failures.
Typical applications
- Centralised plant operation: Monitoring and operation of multiple energy installations or sites through a common interface.
- Control systems and switchgear: Visualisation of switch positions, electrical measurements, alarms and operating states.
- PV, BESS and hybrid systems: Consolidation of operational data from generation assets, storage systems, generators and grid connection points.
- Fault analysis and reporting: Evaluation of historical measurements, events and operator actions.
Distinction, benefits and requirements
A monitoring system focuses on recording and visualising data. A SCADA system can extend these functions by adding alarm and event processing as well as higher-level operating capabilities.
By contrast, an EMS calculates setpoints based on energy-related or economic objectives, such as self-consumption optimisation, peak shaving or BESS operation. A PLC or plant controller performs fast local control sequences, while protection devices respond to electrical fault conditions. The exact distinction depends on the respective system architecture.
A SCADA system improves operational transparency and supports centralised plant operation and fault analysis. Technical requirements include compatible interfaces, consistent data points, reliable timestamping and a suitable operational technology (OT) security concept. This may include network segmentation, secure remote access, strong authentication, logging and encrypted or tunnelled connections.
How does EcoPhi complement a SCADA system?
EcoPhi can collect operational data from PV plants, BESS, energy meters, generators and other components and transmit it to a higher-level SCADA system via project-specific interfaces. External setpoints or operating commands can be received, validated against defined technical limits and forwarded to the devices through the local controller.
Depending on the project, EcoPhi can additionally provide monitoring and EMS functions or perform individual SCADA-related tasks. The specific implementation depends on the required protocols, operating functions, security requirements and available device interfaces.
SCADA system summary
A SCADA system provides a higher-level layer for monitoring, visualising and—depending on its configuration—operating technical installations. Time-critical control, interlocking and protection functions are implemented locally. EcoPhi can serve as the connection between field devices, local controllers and a higher-level SCADA system.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between SCADA and monitoring?
Monitoring focuses on data acquisition and visualisation. SCADA can additionally include alarm and event management as well as active operating capabilities.
Is a SCADA system an EMS?
Not automatically. A SCADA system monitors and operates installations, whereas an EMS calculates setpoints based on defined energy-related or economic objectives.
Does SCADA perform electrical protection functions?
Usually not. Electrical protection functions are performed by dedicated local protection devices.