Preventing Large-Scale Blackouts: Research in High-Speed Digital Relaying, Transient Stability Prediction, and Controlled Islanding

The IEEE NSS IAS/PES Joint Chapter is pleased to welcome Professo Ramakrishna (Rama) Gokaraju . This talk by Prof. Rama will focus on advanced protection and stability solutions for modern power grids under increasing load and infrastructure constraints. The first part introduces a high-speed digital relaying scheme for EHV/UHV transmission systems (345 kV and above) capable of half-cycle operation. The second part presents a real-time transient stability prediction and remedial action scheme (RAS) using intentional islanding to prevent large-scale blackouts and transient overvoltages in renewable systems. The proposed approach integrates “when” and “where” islanding decisions through IEC 61850 R-GOOSE communication and graph theory, enabling faster, smarter, and more coordinated system protection. Date: Tuesday, November 4, 2025 Time: 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm Place: University of Saskatchewan- College of Engineering- 2B53 (57 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK) Parking: Visitor Parking is available at meters throughout University. This is a technical event, and snacks is included in the registration cost. Admission: – IEEE Member: $0.00 – IEEE Student Members: $0 – University of Saskatchewan Students: $0 – Members from the Industry (Non-IEEE Member): $10 Note: Attendees will receive a certificate of participation, which may count toward Professional Development Hour (PDH) credits. Please complete the evaluation form after the event to receive your certificate. If you are interested, please register as soon as possible! The registration deadline is Tuesday, November 4 at 4:30pm See additional details below. Speaker(s): Ramakrishna (Rama) Gokaraju Agenda: – 5:00 – 6: 00 PM: Technical talk on Preventing Large-Scale Blackouts: Research in High-Speed Digital Relaying, Transient Stability Prediction, and Controlled Islanding – 6:00 – 6:30 PM: Refreshments, Socializing and Networking Room: ENG 2B53, Bldg: College of Engineering, 57 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada