Hybrid simulation of power systems and ICT for real-time applications

With the rise of smart grid technologies, the interdependencies of ICT and power systems become increasingly important in both transmission and distribution networks. For the design of time-critical applications, simulation tools for an integrated analysis of these domains are needed. In the case of electrical transmission systems, high-performance ICT solutions and fast controllable power equipment enable a new era of dynamic power system operation whereas applications for this purpose need to be investigated with a special focus on their real-time performance. This paper presents a novel, modular co-simulation environment for comprehensive analysis of mutual effects, taking into account communication networks, IT processing and power system response. This hybrid simulation environment has been developed with a focus on the evaluation of the real-time performance of wide-area monitoring, protection and control (WAMPAC) applications, nonetheless, it is applicable to a variety of smart grid applications in transmission and distribution networks. The simulator architecture takes into account various standards from different areas of research - such as IEEE 1516-2000 (High-Level Architecture), IEC 61850, OPC and CIM - in order to provide a highly flexible simulation environment and to enable development of applications close to industrial implementation.