Power Grid Interconnection Simulation for Combined Impact Assessment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical power grid interconnection evaluation processes are inefficient in determining optimal interconnections, as they often require years and can lead to unintended grid disruptions due to complex interactions among multiple proposed interconnections, lacking a comprehensive simulation tool to assess impacts and prioritize projects effectively.
Innovation Solution
An electrical grid interconnection simulation system that simulates the impact of proposed interconnections over a long time horizon, evaluating various combinations and conditions to determine optimal interconnection sites and asset configurations, providing a pass/fail verdict on multiple metrics and recommending adjustments to ensure grid reliability and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If multiple proposed interconnections are evaluated individually through traditional processes, then each interconnection can be assessed separately, but the total evaluation time extends over multiple years and interactions among interconnections are not considered
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary simulations of multiple interconnection combinations before actual grid modifications are implemented. By evaluating various scenarios in advance using historical and projected load data, the system identifies optimal interconnection sequences and configurations, preventing grid disruptions before they occur and reducing overall evaluation time from years to a manageable timeframe.
2Reliability
If comprehensive simulations of multiple interconnection combinations are performed, then grid reliability and optimal configurations can be determined, but the computational complexity and system requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The evaluation system divides the complex task of assessing multiple interconnections into separate simulation modules, each handling specific interconnection combinations. The system segments the analysis into individual interconnection impacts, pairwise interactions, and cumulative effects, allowing parallel processing and reducing overall computational complexity while maintaining comprehensive evaluation of grid reliability.
3Ease of operation
If traditional interconnection evaluation processes are used, then grid operators can maintain current operational procedures, but unintended grid disruptions occur due to complex interactions among proposed interconnections
Solution Approach 1:
The simulation system provides feedback to grid operators by identifying potential grid disruptions caused by interconnection combinations before implementation. The system analyzes simulated outcomes and returns recommendations for modifying interconnection plans, sequencing, or configurations to avoid harmful effects, allowing operators to maintain operational simplicity while preventing disruptions through informed decision-making.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including medium-encoded computer program products, for determining optimal grid interconnections. A power grid model that includes a topological representation of a power grid and electrical specifications of grid components can be accessed. First interconnection data representing a first proposed interconnection to the power grid can be obtained. At least one other proposed interconnection to the power grid can be selected. A modified power grid model can be generated at least by incorporating the first proposed interconnection and the at least one other proposed interconnection into the power grid model. A simulation of the power grid can be executed using the modified power grid model to obtain simulated power grid data. A combined impact of the first proposed interconnection and the at least one other proposed interconnection on the power grid can be determined from the simulated power grid data.