The UCA International Users Group invites members of the global energy and automation community to participate in the upcoming IEC 61850 Interoperability Testing (IOP) Event – Europe Fall 2026. This hands-on, multi-day event will take place in Europe during the fall of 2026. The specific location and dates will be announced as planning progresses.

The IEC 61850 IOP is a unique opportunity for vendors, testing laboratories, utilities, and system integrators to bring their devices, tools, and software implementations to a common environment for rigorous interoperability testing. Participants work collaboratively to validate conformance, resolve technical issues, and improve real-world compatibility across implementations.

We are currently seeking a host organization – such as a utility, university, or accredited testing laboratory – as well as event sponsors to support this important initiative. Organizations interested in partnering with us to help shape the future of IEC 61850 are encouraged to reach out. Please contact Herb@ucaiug.org

Key Dates

• Registration Deadline for Participants – To Be Announced

• Deadline to Submit Device Information & Test Plans – To Be Announced

What Is the IEC 61850 IOP?

The IEC 61850 Interoperability Testing (IOP) event is a collaborative, in-person workshop where developers and engineers validate how their IEC 61850 implementations interact with others in a controlled environment.

Unlike traditional conferences, the IOP is a technical working session, not a showcase. The focus is on identifying and resolving interoperability issues across multi-vendor systems in a real-time test setting.

The event also informs standardization efforts and drives alignment on implementation best practices, tool capabilities, and testing methodologies.

Who Should Attend

• Vendors with IEC 61850-compliant devices, tools, or systems

• Accredited testing laboratories and research institutions

• Utilities and system integrators involved in deploying or verifying IEC 61850-based solutions

• Standards developers and technical experts supporting 61850 adoption

Participants will benefit from invaluable testing experience, deeper collaboration with the IEC 61850 community, and firsthand insight into the interoperability challenges and solutions shaping the global Smart Grid.

Event Location

TBD – Europe
(Facility details to be confirmed.)