A roadmap for developing real time distribution system simulation tools for the smart grid

Development of distributed generation, energy efficiency and demand-side management measures, economical and technical constraints to meet the performance targets fixed by the regulatory bodies are just some of the new challenges facing distribution system operators in the smart grid development context. Simulation capabilities are playing a major role in the distribution business improvements needed to meet these new objectives. For instance, simulation is providing support to develop the functionalities associated with the self-healing grid concept. This article describes a roadmap for fast simulation and modeling tools applied to distribution systems. A survey of key industry experts was conducted to identify the main drivers for improving simulation and modelling functionalities and to determine the most likely path that evolution will take. The results of this roadmap are intended to provide a high level view of the functionalities that will be needed in the next 10 years to enable smart grid operation. These functions will be enabled by developments in various technical areas, providing solid foundations to build on. This roadmap identifies technological gaps and new software/hardware solution needs, It is focused on the future developments in these areas.