The operation of power transmission grids in an open market

This article takes a look at the new responsibilities of Swissgrid in the Swiss power market. Swissgrid is responsible for securing grid and system operation as well as for providing a market place for the operation of an open electricity market in Switzerland. The situation before and after the system change-over at the beginning of 2009 is discussed. The new roles played by the various actors involved in Swiss power supply such as the operators of overland lines, local electricity utilities and generation facilities at various voltage levels are discussed. New operational rules and new requirements on measurement and instrumentation are discussed.