Digital Substation Operation Course
Online 300-hour course in digital substation operation. 6 modules covering IEC 61850 (communication networks and systems in substations), IEC 61869-9 (digital interface for instrument transformers) and Wireshark. Dedicated tutor and open enrolment.
Take the controls.
Run a real engineering trade-off from this programme. Move the sliders, watch the model react in real time and beat the challenge.
What you will be able to do
Describe the architecture of a digital substation and its functional levels.
Interpret the IEC 61850 data model and SCL configuration files.
Configure and verify GOOSE and Sampled Values messages.
Operate the substation from SCADA with interlocks and automated sequences.
Plan testing and maintenance without putting service at risk.
Apply cybersecurity measures in line with IEC 62351 and IEC 62443.
Prepare operating procedures for a real digital substation.
Who it's for
- Substation operation engineer who wants to specialise in Digital Substation Operation.
- IEC 61850 specialist who wants to specialise in Digital Substation Operation.
- Protection and control systems maintenance technician who wants to specialise in Digital Substation Operation.
- Network automation engineer who wants to specialise in Digital Substation Operation.
- Control centre operator who wants to specialise in Digital Substation Operation.
- OT cybersecurity specialist who wants to specialise in Digital Substation Operation.
- Engineering or science graduates seeking to enter electricity transmission and distribution.
What you'll work with
- IEC 61850 (communication networks and systems in substations)
- IEC 61869-9 (digital interface for instrument transformers)
- IEC 62351 (communication security for the power system)
- IEC 62439-3 (PRP and HSR redundancy)
- IEC 61588 / IEEE 1588 (precision time protocol)
- IEC 62443 (cybersecurity of industrial automation systems)
- IEC 60870-5-104 (telecontrol)
6 modules · 300 h
1.1Station, bay and process levels1.2Station bus and process bus1.3Merging units and non-conventional transformers1.4Smart circuit breakers and bay controllers1.5PTP time synchronisation1.6PRP and HSR redundancy1.7Ethernet network topologies1.8Comparison with the conventional substation1.9Operational advantages and challenges1.10Case study: 220 kV digital substation
2.1Logical nodes and data model2.2SCL language and SCD, ICD and CID files2.3GOOSE messaging between IEDs2.4Sampled Values according to IEC 61869-92.5MMS services and reporting2.6Configuration with system tools2.7Configuration version management2.8Quality and timestamps2.9Interoperability between manufacturers2.10Laboratory: configuring a GOOSE message
3.1Gateways and communication concentrators3.2IEC 60870-5-104 and DNP3 protocols3.3Local human-machine interfaces3.4Distributed logical interlocks3.5Alarm and event management3.6Automated switching sequences3.7Remote control from the control centre3.8Sequence of events recording3.9Operation in degraded mode3.10Practical: designing a switching sequence
4.1Testing with GOOSE simulation and subscription4.2Test mode and simulation in IEC 618504.3Logical isolation of bays4.4Traffic capture with analysers4.5Verification of Sampled Values4.6IED firmware maintenance4.7Management of electronic spare parts4.8Asset condition monitoring4.9Availability indicators4.10Workshop: traffic diagnosis with Wireshark
5.1Cyber risks in substations5.2Security according to IEC 623515.3Zones and conduits under IEC 624435.4Access and account management5.5Security logging and monitoring5.6Configuration backups5.7Incident response in the substation5.8Training of operations staff5.9Technology change management5.10Case study: response to an intrusion alarm
6.1Description of the installation6.2Communication architecture6.3SCL configuration model6.4Normal operating procedures6.5Testing and maintenance procedures6.6Operational cybersecurity plan6.7Indicators and continuous improvement6.8Project conclusions6.9Report and presentation6.10Final review with the tutor
How you'll learn
Fully 100% online training on the SEIUM campus, with downloadable material, recorded classes and a dedicated technical tutor. There are no fixed timetables: students progress at their own pace within the enrolment period, which makes it possible to combine the course with work.
Each module combines theory, guided reading of the original standard and applied exercises. The working software is Wireshark, OMICRON StationScout, Helinks STS, Siemens DIGSI 5, Hitachi Energy PCM600, in free, academic or evaluation versions. Practice is based on real procedures for configuring and verifying GOOSE and Sampled Values messaging, test-mode testing of digital bays, and substation network traffic analysis. Assessment is continuous per module, plus the final integrating project.
Build it end to end
Your final project follows the real engineering workflow, step by step, reviewed by your tutor.
Describe the architecture of a digital substation and its functional levels.
Interpret the IEC 61850 data model and SCL configuration files.
Configure and verify GOOSE and Sampled Values messages.
Operate the substation from SCADA with interlocks and automated sequences.
Plan testing and maintenance without putting service at risk.
Where this takes you
Requirements
- No prior degree is required.
- Internet connection and a computer capable of running the programme's software.
- Sufficient level of Spanish to follow technical standards documentation.
Ready to start?
Send your application today. Our admissions team replies within 72 hours with your study plan and funding options.
Frequently asked questions
The programme comprises 300 hours in total, spread over 3 to 5 months. That is an average of 10 to 15 hours per week, compatible with a full-time job.
You will work with Wireshark, OMICRON StationScout, Helinks STS, Siemens DIGSI 5, Hitachi Energy PCM600. Free, academic or evaluation versions are used, and the tutor indicates the free alternative where one exists.
A SEIUM Institute diploma upon passing the continuous assessment and the integrating project. This is in-house training, not an official qualification from the Ministry.
Yes. Modules passed in a course or postgraduate diploma in the same area are recognised towards the advanced programme. Check the recognition policy when you enrol.
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