An operational limitation has been reported on the 500 kV Nueva Maitencillo - Nueva Pan de Azúcar transmission line, circuits 1 and 2, according to folio IL 2025000322. The reported cause is a failure in the main communication system of the line differential system (87L), with the backup communication system remaining operational for both circuits.

Additionally, ISA personnel reported that, during work at the Nueva Pan de Azúcar substation, the voltage signal to the relay was lost, causing the distance protection (21-21N) to operate. When attempting to reconnect the system, this condition persisted, the 500 kV bus differential protection (87B) at the Nueva Maitencillo substation tripped, causing the complete disconnection of all lines connected to the busbar.

Operational Impact

The operational limitation has a significant impact on the system’s transfer capacity, reducing normal availability by approximately 40%. The National Electricity Coordinator has implemented temporary restrictions to ensure system safety while the fault is resolved.

Corrective Measures

ISA’s technical team is already working on replacing the main communications system. The repair work is estimated to take approximately 72 hours, during which the system will operate with the aforementioned restrictions.

Recommendations

System operators are advised to pay special attention to load levels on alternate lines and be prepared to implement additional measures in case of contingencies during this period.