PyPSA: Python for Power System Analysis

Abstract

Python for Power System Analysis (PyPSA) is a free software toolbox for simulating and optimising modern electrical power systems over multiple periods. PyPSA includes models for conventional generators with unit commitment, variable renewable generation, storage units, coupling to other energy sectors, and mixed alternating and direct current networks. It is designed to be easily extensible and to scale well with large networks and long time series. In this paper the basic functionality of PyPSA is described, including the formulation of the full power flow equations and the multi-period optimisation of operation and investment with linear power flow equations. PyPSA is positioned in the existing free software landscape as a bridge between traditional power flow analysis tools for steady-state analysis and full multi-period energy system models. The functionality is demonstrated on two open datasets of the transmission system in Germany (based on SciGRID) and Europe (based on GridKit).

A Qualitative Evaluation Approach for Energy System Modelling Software—Case Study Results for the Open Energy Modelling Framework (Oemof)

“…Additionally, generic classes can be used to easily integrate other models. This has for instance been tested with the PyPSA library [6]. Applications built on oemof have shown the integration of electricity, heat and mobility as well as energy market simulation models [86] and power flow analyses [87].…”

“…And indeed, source code of different models has been made publicly accessible in recent years (e.g. Balmorel [68], OSeMOSYS [7], TEMOA [20], calliope [69], PyPSA [6]). Meanwhile, up to now 25 open energy models and frameworks are registered on the website of the open energy modelling initiative [3].…”

“…This is underpinned by the large amount of existing models and their differentiation along social, technological and economic lines. Therefore multi-purpose model generators or frameworks [4][5][6][7] are of growing importance in the energy modelling community. In this context it is crucial for model users and developers to identify software that is fit for the intended purpose.…”

Addressing Energy System Modelling Challenges: The Contribution of the Open Energy Modelling Framework (oemof)

“…In fact, with today's information technology it has never been easier to comply with these recommendations. And indeed, source code of different models has been made publicly accessible in recent years (Balmorel [21], OSeMOSYS [11], TEMOA [5], calliope [66], PyPSA [67]). On the website of the open energy modelling initiative, up to now 25 open energy models are registered [14].…”

“…Additionally, the generic classes can be used to easily integrate other models within oemof. This has for instance been tested with the PyPSA model [67]. Applications built on oemof have shown the integration of electricity, heat and mobility as well as energy market simulation models [86] and power-flow simulations [85].…”