Seeing the Grid in Motion: Synchrophasors and Data | Grid Mod Pod Ep. 94 with Kevin Jones, Dominion

Seeing the Grid in Motion: Synchrophasors and Data | Grid Mod Pod Ep. 94 with Kevin Jones, Dominion

Title history
  • Seeing the Grid in Motion: Synchrophasors and Data | Grid Mod Pod Ep. 94 with Kevin Jones, Dominion — observed on 20261103-1218 UTC (YouTube)

by Kevin Jones (Dominion Energy), interviewed by Dr. Elizabeth Cook · View the channel on PSI

Applied Sciences & Engineering Energy THEnergy technology and engineeringTHYEnergy, power generation, distribution and storage
🎙 Kevin Jones (Dominion Energy), interviewed by Dr. Elizabeth Cook 👥 1K 📅 November 3, 2026 ⏱ 44 min 👁 25 📄 expert opinion 🧭 2026-11-03
Available in: English (current) Français

Keywords

synchrophasorPMUSCADAdata stackcost of experimentation

Summary

In this episode of the Grid Mod Pod, host Dr. Elizabeth Cook interviews Kevin Jones, Director of Electric Transmission Strategic Initiatives at Dominion Energy, about the transformative potential of synchrophasor data. Jones explains how synchrophasors, measured by Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs), offer a high-resolution view of the grid—comparing it to moving pictures versus static photographs from SCADA. He recounts his personal journey from Virginia Tech, where the PMU was invented, to his role at Dominion, and how a DOE grant facilitated initial PMU deployment. A central theme is the importance of adopting a mindset of ‘cost of experimentation’ rather than requiring a priori understanding of data use cases. Jones describes a partnership with PingThings that allowed Dominion to analyze data across multiple domains without expensive integration, identifying 10 areas of inquiry in just five months. He also discusses the evolving role of data in grid operations, the need for more skilled personnel, and the race to harness digital exhaust for future innovations. The conversation touches on root-cause analysis for oscillations, the cultural challenges of data-driven transformation, and a new partnership announcement, highlighting the ongoing modernization of electric utilities.

188 words

Critical Evaluation

Value of the Information & Strength of the Argument

The value lies in the concrete, real-world examples of how data-driven experimentation can uncover benefits beyond initial expectations. Jones argues convincingly that past failures to justify synchrophasor data stem from an overly narrow focus on specific use cases, whereas a broader investment in data infrastructure enables rapid hypothesis testing. The argumentation is well-structured, using analogies (photographs to moving pictures), historical references (Virginia Tech’s PMU invention, 2003 blackout), and practical outcomes (10 domains in five months) to support the case. While not a formal study, the presentation of a utility’s pragmatic journey offers valuable insights for industry peers.

Scientific Rigor, Source Quality, Title Accuracy

The discussion is rooted in technical facts and historical events, with mentions of IEEE involvement and DOE grants. Jones, with 14 years at Dominion, appears credible. The title directly matches the content. No explicit external sources are cited beyond the podcast’s own channels, but the description includes AEIC, Spotify, and LinkedIn links. The use of chapters indicates careful structuring. Overall, the presentation is rigorous for an expert-perspective podcast, though it would benefit from citing specific technical papers or standards.

191 words

Title / Content Match

The title accurately reflects the core topic—synchrophasor data and grid visualization—and the podcast format with a named expert.

Quality & Reliability

8/10

The discussion is led by an industry expert with hands-on experience in implementing synchrophasor technology at a major utility. Claims are grounded in real deployments and historical context, though some parts rely on anecdotal evidence. Overall, the information appears reliable and well-founded.

Chapters

Cited Sources

Contribution & Novelties

The podcast provides a personal, practitioner-driven perspective on the adoption of synchrophasor technology, emphasizing the strategic shift from use-case-driven to data-driven innovation. The concept of ‘cost of experimentation’ as a guiding principle offers a fresh lens for utility investments. It also highlights the importance of cross-functional team growth and the cultural challenge of aligning IT and business units.

Pour aller plus loin :

98 words

Radar Profile

The radar profile shows high scores in information quantity and quality, with a somewhat lower technical depth relative to a specialist audience. This indicates a well-balanced expert conversation that is accessible yet informative, suitable for professionals seeking practical insights.

Reliability 8/10