The need for simulations of low-voltage systems is encouraging power utilities to make greater efforts in the correction of their models in geographic information systems (GISs). This paper presents new procedures and algorithms that exploit the graph theory and data structure properties to efficiently detect and correct errors in models of radial secondary systems. These errors include incorrect connectivity and disconnected elements and rings, among others. The corrections lead to more accurate and reliable GIS models to be used later in combined simulations of medium- and low-voltage systems. The proposed procedures are implemented and validated with real GIS models of large-scale distribution circuits from different power utilities. It was found that most of the errors in existing models can be automatically corrected by the proposed methodologies. Human intervention is only required when there are several options to eliminate the same error or when disconnected elements cannot be easily associated with other portions of existing secondary systems.

Wide-area monitoring, protection, and control (WAMPAC) involves the use of system-wide information and the communication of selected local information to a remote location to counteract the propagation of large disturbances. Synchronized measurement technology (SMT) is an important element and enabler of WAMPAC. It is expected that WAMPAC systems will in the future reduce the number of catastrophic blackouts and generally improve the reliability and security of energy production, transmission, and distribution, particularly in power networks with a high level of operational uncertainties. In this paper, the technological and application issues are addressed. Several key monitoring, protection, and control applications are described and discussed. A strategy for developing a WAMPAC system in the United Kingdom is given as well.