NOJA Power EcoLink® Enters Live Field Evaluation on Mexican Distribution Network

NOJA Power EcoLink® technology has entered a live field evaluation on a distribution feeder in Mexico, marking an important step in assessing the benefits of self-powered intelligent protection technology under real operating conditions.

Delivered in collaboration with EPRECSA and a local utility in the Bajío region, the project aims to evaluate the ability of EcoLink technology to improve service continuity, reduce outage durations, and minimise maintenance interventions associated with transient faults on distribution networks.

As part of the initiative, three NOJA Power EcoLinks have been installed and commissioned on a feeder with a history of frequent fault activity and fuse operations. The site was specifically selected to provide a practical environment for evaluating the effectiveness of intelligent protection devices in enhancing network reliability and operational performance.

In many distribution networks, temporary faults caused by vegetation contact, wildlife, or weather events can result in fuse operations and prolonged outages. EcoLink can automatically clear transient faults and restore supply, helping utilities minimise customer interruptions and avoid unnecessary fuse replacements.

Prior to commissioning, all three EcoLink units were configured in accordance with protection settings provided by the utility, ensuring seamless integration with existing network operating requirements. The units have now been energised and placed into service with automatic protection and reclosing functions enabled.

Over the coming months, operational data and event records from the installation will be monitored and analysed to quantify improvements in feeder reliability and assess the effectiveness of EcoLink technology in reducing sustained outages. The evaluation will provide valuable insights into the role that self-powered intelligent protection devices can play in supporting distribution network performance and resilience.

The project reflects a broader industry focus on modernising distribution networks through the adoption of smart grid technologies. By improving reliability, enhancing operational efficiency, and supporting faster restoration of supply following temporary faults, intelligent protection solutions are helping utilities deliver improved service continuity to customers.

“The successful installation of EcoLinks on a high-fault section of the network demonstrates how intelligent protection and automatic service restoration technologies can help utilities improve reliability while reducing operational costs.” says Neil O'Sullivan, Group Managing Director of NOJA Power.

For more information about NOJA Power's EcoLink, visit www.nojapower.com.au