Development of Power System Models for Distributed Real-Time Simulations

Abstract

This paper proposes a general methodology for the development of power system models suitable for distributed real-time simulations (D-RTS) based on topology, simulator interfaces and data exchange. D-RTS have risen as functional alternatives that can combine remote and multi-vendor resources for large-scale power system simulations via a virtual connection. However, previous work focused on combination of separate models and not the performance of D-RTS when splitting a single monolithic model, failing to study the behaviors of D-RTS, including, synchronization and accuracy. The proposed methodology is used to develop distributed models of two widely used testbed large power systems, the IEEE Australian Benchmark model and the IEEE 300-Bus system. These testbeds are selected as they can be simulated as both monolithic and distributed models in available simulators in order to validate both the methodology and resulting model performance. The obtained results and comparison between monolithic and distributed models support the proposed approach and demonstrate the performance of D-RTS under both steady-state and transient operations in multiple scenarios.INDEX TERMS Co-simulation, distributed real-time simulation (D-RTS), geographically distributed realtime simulation (GD-RTS), real-time simulation (RTS)

UNSW Sydney's Real-Time Simulations Laboratory (RTS@UNSW): Supporting Power Electronics Defined Power Systems, Down Under

“…By incorporating such a model into additional libraries, it becomes possible to test new applications and algorithms with a focus on LPS. For instance, the benchmark model has been later used for: i) testing new algorithms for decoupling models for distributed simulations [36], ii) developing adaptive power reserve control strategies for PV plants [37], and iii) demonstrating a virtual testbed for digital twin applications [38]. In addition, simulations and results using the Simplified Australian 14-Generator can be cross-verified along various software and platforms [39].…”

Overview of Interface Algorithms, Interface Signals, Communication and Delay in Real-Time Co-Simulation of Distributed Power Systems

“…Digital PHIL simulators have been used in several works of literature to co-simulate with grid emulators and physical systems; however, due to the real interface's low voltage, sensors and amplifiers are needed to send signals at the power side. Providentially, for simulatorto-simulator data sharing, which is also applicable in GDRTCS, the communication network and interface simplify the interface of IA [41]. Thus, some challenges listed in Table 1 may not exist in simulator-to-simulator data sharing.…”

“…The remote side then reconstructs signals and provides a delay compensation and synchronization. Lastly, the reconstructed signals are introduced into the distributed subsystem [41].…”

“…Remote subsystem synchronization using GPS signals is frequent. GPS signals ensure subsystems start their simulations simultaneously [41].…”

“…Digital RT co-simulation power system splitting is suggested in [41], where Figure 30 shows a six-step flowchart. Splitting a power system begins with identifying splitting points.…”