Smart grid system reduces outage times and strengthens reliability for rural members
Oklahoma Electric Cooperative (OEC) has activated a new phase of its Adaptively Controlled Electric System (ACES), bringing advanced self-healing grid technology to members in the Chickasha, Amber and Pocasset areas.
ACES uses smart grid devices installed along power lines that continuously monitor the electric system. When a disruption occurs — such as storm damage or a vehicle striking a power pole — the system can automatically isolate the problem area and reroute electricity through another path when possible.
By limiting the impact of outages, the technology helps restore power to many members faster.
Members served by ACES technology currently experience more than 60% less time without power compared to areas of the system that have not yet been upgraded.
“OEC has long been committed to investing in technology that strengthens reliability for our members,” said CEO Patrick Grace. “ACES allows our electric system to respond more quickly to outages, reducing their impact and improving service for the communities we serve.”
The cooperative began implementing ACES in 2021 as part of its long-term effort to modernize the electric distribution system. Currently, about 8–9% of OEC’s membership benefits from the technology.
Engineers determine where ACES should be expanded by analyzing outage data, restoration times and system conditions to identify areas where smart grid devices can make the greatest impact. Rural areas are often strong candidates due to longer distances between substations and service roads.
The latest upgrades in Chickasha, Amber and Pocasset also include enhanced cybersecurity protections that strengthen the electric system’s defenses by managing access to field devices and regularly rotating device credentials.
Another key component enabling ACES is OEC Fiber, the cooperative’s fiber-optic network. The network provides the secure, high-speed communication system that allows smart grid devices to share information and make decisions in real time.
“Our fiber internet network allows these devices to communicate instantly,” said Nick Shumaker, manager of system engineering. “That speed and reliability make it possible for the system to automatically reroute power and reduce outage impacts.”
Before the system was placed into service, engineers conducted extensive testing — including simulated faults — to ensure the devices respond safely and reliably when disruptions occur.
The Chickasha expansion represents another milestone in OEC’s broader effort to modernize its electric grid and reinvest in rural Central Oklahoma.
Oklahoma Electric Cooperative is Oklahoma’s largest member-owned electric cooperative, and OEC Fiber is the state’s largest wholly-owned broadband subsidiary. OEC provides electricity to over 65,000 accounts and broadband services to over 43,000 subscribers in seven central Oklahoma counties. The service area includes approximately 2,200 square miles with 5,900 miles of electric line and 4,000 miles of fiber line.