Dr Pablo Paz

In distribution systems, data acquisition systems (DAQs) have traditionally been limited to substations and reclosers. This was largely due to cost considerations and the assumption that these measurement points were sufficient for monitoring and protection in relatively simple feeder configurations.

However, the increasing penetration of distributed energy resources (DERs) and the growing dependence on highly reliable electric service are changing this landscape. Traditional DAQ architectures were designed for radial systems with a single power source. In today’s more dynamic and bidirectional distribution networks, this approach may no longer provide the visibility and responsiveness required.

With support from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), a non-intrusive sensor platform has been developed for overhead medium-voltage distribution lines. These sensors are designed for hot-stick installation directly on single-phase conductors. They are fully self-powered through energy harvesting and can coordinate across phases for synchronized data capture. This approach enables scalable and cost-effective deployment without requiring infrastructure modifications.

In this talk, we will present practical applications of this technology for distribution systems and microgrids, ranging from wildfire detection to enhanced microgrid resilience. We will also share key lessons learned from field deployments in Texas utilities.

Biography:

Dr. Pablo Paz earned his B.S. degree in Electromechanical Engineering in 2007 and began his professional career at a major electric utility, where he worked full-time until 2015. During this period, he held several operational and engineering roles, including Power System EMS-SCADA Operator and Dispatch Engineer for both distribution and transmission systems.

He received his M.S. degree in 2018 and his Ph.D. in 2022 in Electrical Engineering, with an emphasis on Power Systems, from the University of São Paulo, Brazil. As part of his doctoral research, he was a Visiting Ph.D. Student in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin from 2021 to 2022.

From 2022 to 2025, Dr. Paz served as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Center for Electromechanics at UT Austin, where he is currently a Research Associate. His research interests include power system protection, control, and stability.