IEC 61850 - Communications for energy automation.

IEC 61850 is the international communication standard for energy automation. This standard enables devices, systems and energy solutions within electrical installations to communicate with each other reliably and efficiently.

Bob Hermans

Bob Hermans

27/11/2025
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For you as an installer or system integrator, IEC 61850 is very important because it provides a standardized, future-proof infrastructure that allows energy components such as transformers, relays, and battery storage systems to work together safely and intelligently.

Why is IEC - 61850 important for power automation?

The energy transition requires intelligent systems that can respond quickly and reliably to changes in supply and demand. IEC 61850 hereby provides a universal language with which all components of the energy system can communicate efficiently.

This ensures higher reliability, faster data transfer and better interoperability between different brands and technologies. In addition, the standard enables flexible scaling of power systems and easy integration with digital monitoring and energy management systems.

For installers, this means less complex configurations and more consistent operation of installations across the lifecycle.

The role of IEC - 61850 within Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).

Within Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), IEC 61850 plays a crucial role in linking energy storage, grid management and communication standards. A BESS must be able to communicate seamlessly with inverters, grid management systems (SCADA) and energy management software (EMS).

IEC 61850 allows these components to exchange data in a uniform manner, ensuring stable and secure power supply. This is essential for applications such as peak shaving, grid stabilization and emergency power supply.

For Frax, this means that our plug-and-play energy storage systems are not only technically advanced, but also ready for smart grid integration according to international standards. This allows our BESS solutions to be easily deployed within industrial and residential projects with maximum reliability and efficiency.

How does communication according to IEC - 61850 work?

The IEC 61850 standard is based on object-oriented communication. This means that each component of the power system is described as a data object with specific properties and functions. These objects communicate with each other via standardized protocols, such as MMS (Manufacturing Message Specification) for client-server communication and GOOSE (Generic Object Oriented Substation Event) for high-speed messaging between devices.

This allows power components to make autonomous decisions, such as automatically switching power or responding to grid disturbances. The standard uses Ethernet technology, which provides high speed and reliability in communication, crucial for modern power systems with real-time control and monitoring.

Benefits of IEC - 61850 for installers and system integration

The application of IEC 61850 within energy automation offers numerous advantages for installers, system operators and grid operators. The use of a single unified communications standard simplifies installation, configuration and maintenance, while increasing system reliability and safety.

In addition, it makes the integration of battery storage systems such as Frax's faster and easier because the communication infrastructure is compatible with existing networks and operating systems.

  • Standardized communication between all energy components
  • Faster integration of battery storage systems into existing infrastructures
  • Reliable and secure data exchange for critical applications
  • Lower installation and maintenance costs thanks to universal protocols
  • Future-proof design ready for further digitization
  • Improved interoperability between different brands and systems
  • Easier management and monitoring through unified data models

Frax connects energy storage with smart IEC 61850 Communications

At Frax, we believe in smart energy solutions that completely unburden installers. Our Battery Energy Storage Systems are designed with user-friendly integration in mind and support modern communication standards such as IEC 61850.

This allows you to effortlessly link our systems to SCADA, EMS or grid management platforms, without complicated configurations or customization. The result is a reliable, scalable and efficient energy storage system that meets the highest energy automation requirements.

With Frax, you combine sustainable storage with smart communications, so you are ready for the future of energy management.

This post was last updated on: 

12/11/2025

Bob Hermans

Founder & CEO

After being active in the energy market for more than a decade, I decided to found Frax in 2023. With Frax, I want to support installers with smart, plug-and-play battery storage systems that really make a difference. My passion lies in renewable energy and innovation, and I believe that simple, reliable solutions are the key to a future with more efficient energy use.

Wondering what we can do for you?

Meet our innovative, easy-to-use energy storage and management solutions. Developed to make your energy use smarter, more sustainable and reliable.

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