IEC 61970-301:2011 deals with the common information model (CIM), an abstract model that represents all the major objects in an electric utility enterprise typically involved in utility operations. The object classes represented in the CIM are abstract in nature and may be used in a wide variety of applications. The use of the CIM goes far beyond its application in an EMS. This standard should be understood as a tool to enable integration in any domain where a common power system model is needed to facilitate interoperability and plug compatibility between applications and systems independent of any particular implementation. Major changes from the second edition include the following:
- Addition of regulation control models;
- new "OperationalLimits" package for equipment ratings;
- addition of partial ownership specification;
- enhancement of LoadResponseCharacteristic;
- change from non-SI units to SI units.