Netcontrol × Smilics: Empowering digital secondary substations in MV and LV grids

Netcontrol × Smilics: Best of both worlds in smart energy grids

The energy transition depends on intelligent, resilient, and sustainable power infrastructure. That’s why Netcontrol, a leader in automation and SCADA systems for distribution networks, and Smilics Technologies, a leader in LV secondary substation monitoring, have joined forces. Together, we are delivering 2Grid — a modular suite of monitoring and control devices designed to transform secondary substations into the digital backbone of tomorrow’s smart grids.

A shared vision for grid intelligence

Founded in 1991, Smilics Technologies has established itself as a pioneer in low-voltage monitoring devices, sensors, and behind-the-meter solutions, with a strong focus on sustainability and near-zero energy operations at its Terrassa headquarters in Spain. Like Netcontrol, Smilics is driven by the belief that digitalization and automation are essential to the energy transition. Our collaboration ensures utilities gain access to reliable, European-made technology that meets the stringent requirements of today’s Distribution System Operators (DSOs).

What does the 2Grid line offer to DSO’s?

The 2Grid product line has been engineered based on 3 very important premises:

• Provide real time data
• Suitable for retrofitting any installation
• Should be installed without interrupting the service

2Grid offers utilities the most comprehensive solution for digitizing low-voltage transformer stations. Built on modularity and flexibility, the range is composed of four independent yet complementary devices:

• 2Grid Gate – Measures real-time electrical and power quality parameters at the transformer secondary, including harmonics, energy flows, and events. It helps detect overloads, short circuits, energy theft, and poor power quality.
• 2Grid Feeder – Provides real-time monitoring at feeder level, detecting overloads, blown fuses, unbalances between phases, reverse power, overheating on LV cables or allowing utilities to extend capacity for new services or users.
• 2Grid Bulker – Monitors environmental and transformer health indicators such as oil temperature and chassis condition, flooding, environmental temperature, humidity, ozone levels, fire, intrusion, etc.
• 2Grid Green – Enhances substation safety with environmental monitoring: smoke detection, intrusion alerts, temperature and humidity tracking, and fire detection.

Compact intelligence: 2Grid CommPack

For utilities seeking an all-in-one approach, the 2Grid CommPack integrates multiple functions — combining devices like Gate, Feeder, and Bulker into a single robust unit. Available in both pole and ground configurations, CommPack delivers:

• Comprehensive electrical measurements (current, voltage, harmonics)
• Transformer health monitoring (oil pressure, tilt, vibration, ambient conditions)
• Built-in 4G communication and last-gasp features for outage resilience
• Rugged, plug-and-play design for rapid deployment

This compact format empowers utilities to digitize a secondary substation in under 1 hour, minimizing installation complexity and maximizing field efficiency.

Cybersecurity at the core

Recognizing the critical role of substations in national infrastructure, Smilics has embedded state-of-the-art cybersecurity into every 2Grid device. From encrypted TLS communications to secure boot, tamper detection, and cryptographic chipsets, the platform complies with FIPS and TPM standards, ensuring resilience against cyber threats.

Netcontrol × Smilics: A powerful cooperation

While Smilics’ 2Grid hardware provides granular, real-time visibility into electrical and environmental parameters, Netcontrol’s automation and SCADA expertise ensures seamless integration into grid management systems. Together, they deliver a holistic, interoperable solution for DSOs:

• Smarter operations – Real-time fault detection and predictive insights.
• Greater reliability – Proactive maintenance and fewer outages.
• Sustainability – Efficiency gains that support renewable integration and reduced losses.
• Scalability – Modular deployment to match the needs of rural and urban substations alike.

Looking ahead

As grids become more decentralized, electrified, and data-driven, the Netcontrol × Smilics collaboration around 2Grid sets a benchmark for how utilities can adapt. By merging cutting-edge monitoring technology with trusted automation platforms, we are building the foundation of a resilient, digital, and sustainable energy future.

Author

Carles Pujol Soler is a Sales Manager for the Utility sector and Grid Solutions at Smilics Technologies. Carles has over 20 years of experience in managing international sales teams in the electrical industry, with a strong background in LV supervision and automation, energy efficiency and digitalization of secondary substations.