Approximate model of European interconnected system as a benchmark system to study effects of cross-border trades

Research into transmission pricing and congestion management in interconnected power systems, such as those found in USA and Europe, requires an appropriate benchmark system to test different methodologies. Creation of a realistic benchmark system is difficult as utilities are often unwilling to disclose details of their own systems because of commercial sensitivity and security reasons. This paper presents development of an approximate model of a European interconnected system which could be used to study the effects of cross-border trades. In creating the load-flow model, only publicly available information was used. Comparison of simulation results conducted on the test system with the published cross-border flows and power transfer distribution factors showed a very good correlation, exceeding 90%.