SimBench—A Benchmark Dataset of Electric Power Systems to Compare Innovative Solutions Based on Power Flow Analysis

Abstract

Publicly accessible, elaborated grid datasets, i.e., benchmark grids, are well suited to publish and compare methods or study results. Similarly, developing innovative tools and algorithms in the fields of grid planning and grid operation is based on grid datasets. Therefore, a general methodology to generate benchmark datasets and its voltage level dependent implementation is described in this paper. As a result, SimBench, a comprehensive dataset for the low, medium, high and extra-high voltage level, is presented. Besides grids that can be combined across several voltage levels, the dataset offers an added value by providing time series for a whole year as well as future scenarios. In this way, SimBench is applicable for many use cases and simplifies reproducing study results. As proof, different automated algorithms for grid planning are compared to show how to apply SimBench and make use of it as a simulation benchmark.

Multi-Year High-Voltage Power System Planning Considering Active Power Curtailment

“…In this section, we apply the proposed framework to the "SimBench" urban HV-system with the SimBench grid code "1-HV-urban-0-sw" [23]. The case study compares the costs of RES curtailment to the costs of line replacement measures for a planning horizon of 10 years.…”

“…Section 2 details the implementation of the multi-year planning method. Section 3 shows results for the SimBench urban HV benchmark grid from [23]. In Section 4, we discuss the results and give a conclusion in Section 5.…”

Utility-based operation management for low voltage distribution grids using online optimization

“…We use the topology of a rural-type benchmark grid from the Sim-Bench dataset [23] to test the operation management controller. While the topology as well as the distribution line and transformer specifications are taken from dataset, we modify the load and generation data to simulate a scenario for 2030.…”

Challenges in Grid Integration of Electric Vehicles in Urban and Rural Areas

“…EVs are primarily connected at the low-voltage grid level. Six representative synthetic low-voltage grids for rural and urban regions are examined to assess the impact of different charging strategies on grid stability [14]. While the three rural grids are typically characterized by long line distances, the other three suburban and urban grids, in contrast, are dominated by a higher number of grid consumption points in a smaller grid area.…”