DIgSILENT PowerFactory 2024

The significant developments in PowerFactory 2024 include:

Extended functionality for the Cable Analysis module to meet revised industry standards as well as greater flexibility for cable layout specificationDevelopments in Modelica modelling for dynamic simulation, both in the model definition and the graphical representationEnhancement to Co-Simulation, allowing automatic region detection and definition for co-simulationSupport of curative redispatch in the Unit Commitment and Dispatch Optimisation functionState Estimation for unbalanced networks, suitable for low voltage distribution gridsIncorporation of LV Load Flow into the Hosting Capacity and Connection Request functionsMany new and enhanced Power Equipment Models, to support extended calculation features and offer greater flexibility in modellingExtensions to the Drawing and Diagram Layout Tools to allow easy creation and representation of complex elements such as towers, cable systems or controllers, as well as network groupingsIntroduction of user-defined Hotkeys and a customisable Quick Access menu

With the new features in PowerFactory 2024, we continue the process of enhancement and development which ensures that PowerFactory remains the ideal tool for a wide range of network planning and operational studies, from small micro-grids to large transmission and distribution networks, including HVDC and renewable technologies.

Contingency Analysis

The Contingency Analysis tool in DIgSILENT PowerFactory has been designed to offer a high degree of flexibility in configuration, calculation methods and reporting options. Single- and multiple- time-phase contingency analyses are available, both of which offer automatic or user-defined contingency creation based on events, and the consideration of controller time constants and thermal (short-term) ratings.

AC, DC and AC linearised analysis methods, including regional assessmentOutage levels: n-1, n-2, n-kFast contingency screening with recalculation of critical cases using AC methodSingle and multiple time phase considerationDynamic contingencies option for creating fault cases “on the fly”Remedial Action Schemes for flexible and dynamic analysis of post-fault actionsSubstation automation via switching schemesUser-configured time-sweep analysis with parallelisation optionGenerator effectiveness and quad booster effectivenessEnhanced Fault Case managementComprehensive spreadsheet reporting features, including graphical ­visualisation of critical casesTracing of individual contingency casesContingency comparison modeParallelised Contingency Analysis using multiple cores

Quasi-Dynamic Simulation

Power Factory offers Quasi Dynamic Simulation  for the execution of medium to long term simulations. Multiple load flow calculations are carried out with user-defined time step sizes. The tool is particularly suitable for planning studies in which long term load and generation profiles are defined, and network development is modelled using variations and expansion stages.

Medium- to long-term simulations based on steady-state analysisTime and Time-Profile characteristics for simplified modelling of (recurrent) time seriesConsideration of planned outages, network Variations Expansion StagesFlexible definition of simulation time range with arbtirary resolutionsSimulation plots and tabular reports including statistical analysisQDSL-language for user-definable models (load flow and quasi-dynamic equations)QDSL model encryption funcionality¹Parallelised simulation using multiple coresUse of neural networks for fast approximation of results²

¹Requires DPL/DSL/QDSL Encryption Function licence. DIgSILENT does not give any express warranties or guarantees for cryptographic security of encrypted models. In particular, DIgSILENT does not guarantee that the details and functionalities of an encrypted model are secure against all means of access or attack attempts.
²Requires Artificial Intelligence licence

Network Reduction

The Network Reduction Tool enables the analysis of networks where the effect of adjacent networks needs to be considered but are not required to be modelled in detail. Adjacent networks are reduced according to a user-specified boundary, with the tool creating the required equivalent elements for subsequent load flow and short circuit calculations.

Flexible definition of boundaries with Boundary Definition ToolCalculation of (AC or DC) load flow and short-circuit equivalentSupport of load, Ward, extended Ward and REI-DIMO equivalentsRegional equivalent method for flexible reduction of neighbouring systemsNetwork Reduction for Dynamic Equivalent, to support ­balanced RMS simulations¹Numerous options for aggregation of non-linear elementsCapturing of reduction via Variation for convenient toggling between original and equivalent grid

¹Requires RMS Function licence

Protection Functions

A comprehensive relay library based on manufacturer-specific protection devices is available and can be used in steady-state and for dynamic simulation. The protection device models are highly detailed and completely aligned with StationWare, allowing settings exchange with real protection devices. A range of protection concepts is supported, including time-overcurrent, distance, differential, directional, over-voltage and under-voltage, over-frequency and under-frequency, out of step protection and power swing blocking. Various graphical representation of protection device characteristics are available such as Overcurrent-time diagram with drag and drop functionality, R-X  and P-Q diagrams, and diagrams for differential protection. Validation of selected settings can be done graphically via Time distance diagrams or with Overcurrent-time diagrams, or automatically via protection audit tools. Selected settings can be reported in tables and exported for further investigation.

Comprehensive relay library with relay models suitable for steady-state, RMS and EMT¹ calculationsSynchronisation with DIgSILENT StationWareHighly-detailed spreadsheet reports for protection settings (overcurrent, distance, voltage, frequency protection)Graphical visualisation and editing of fuses, relays, CTs and VTs including auto layout functionalityProtection AuditValidation tool for protection settings and configurationsUser-configurable fault types assessmentAutomatic determination of protection topologyAutomatic short-circuit calculationMultiple predefined reports with auto-identification of critical protection settings (device coordination, device tripping times, fault clearing times)Short-Circuit Trace functionality for steady-state simulation of fault clearance and relay responses

¹Requires Stability Analysis Functions (RMS) or Electromagnetic Transients (EMT) licence

Time-Overcurrent Protection

Overcurrent-time diagram with drag drop functionality including auto-generated graphical legendCable and transformer damage curvesMotor starting curvesAutomatic display of measured currentsSteady-state response checksSteady-state short-circuit simulation with tracing of individual stepsSteady-state tripping times for transient or sub-transient current/voltage valuesTransient response checks (requires Stability Analysis functions (RMS) or Electromagnetic Transients functions (EMT))¹Protection Graphic AssistantCustomisable short-circuit sweep diagrams including visualisation of protection settingsProtection Coordination AssistantAutomatic calculation of overcurrent protection settingsSupport of various coordination methods and setting rules, including user-defined rulesProtection model featuresFuses and low-voltage circuit breakersPositive-, negative-, zero-sequence inverse and definite time characteristicsThermal overload characteristicsDirectional elements supporting cross-, self- and memory polarising, Wattmetric methodDifferential unit with harmonic blocking for multiple harmonic ordersGeneric and detailed manufacturer-specific recloser unitsSignal transmission between relays, inter-tripping, interblocking schemesDetailed CT, VT, combined CT/VT , and CVT models including ­ saturationOver-, under-voltage inverse and definite time characteristicsProgrammable logic unitOver-, under-frequency and df/dt inverse and definite time characteristics²

¹Requires Stability Analysis Functions (RMS) or Electromagnetic Transients (EMT) licence

²Requires Stability Analysis Functions (RMS) licence

Distance Protection

Requires Time-Overcurrent ProtectionP-Q diagrams and R-X diagrams with support of the display of measured impedance traceTime-distance diagrams, with metric or calculated display of zone reach in forward and reverse directionProtection Graphic AssistantReach of protection zones colourings in diagramsProtection Coordination AssistantAutomatic calculation of protection settingsSupport of various coordination methods and setting rules, including user-defined rulesProtection model featuresGeneric and detailed manufacturer-specific Mho, polygonal distance zones and distance starting unitsOut of step detection and power swing blocking unit¹

¹Requires Stability Analysis Functions (RMS) or Electromagnetic Transients (EMT) licence

Arc-Flash Analysis

The Arc-Flash Analysis tool supports various international recognised standards and recommendations for Arc-Flash Hazard calculations. All calculation results can be represented graphically or in tables and Arc-Flash labels can be generated. Different ways of specifying the fault clearing time are offered; if the Protection Functions licence is available, the Arc-Flash Analysis can be configured to take into account protection devices and their fault clearing times.

Arc-Flash calculation for AC systems in accordance with IEEE 1584-2002 and -2018, NFPA 70E-2021 and DGUV 203-077 and EPRIArc-Flash calculation for DC systems in accordance with NFPA 70E-2021 and DGUV 203-077Incident Energy, Flash-Protection Boundary and PPE Category on the single line diagramAutomated preparation of Arc-Flash labelsAutomatic protection-based fault clearing time determination¹Calculation of arcing-current energy

¹Requires Protection Functions licence

Cable Analysis

The PowerFactory Cable Analysis tool contains two packages: Cable Sizing and Cable Ampacity Calculation.
The Cable Sizing package can be used either to verify the suitability of the assigned line types or to obtain recommendations for new line types according to a selected International Standard or according to user-defined voltage, thermal, and short-circuit constraints.
The Cable Ampacity Calculation assists in the determination of the maximum allowed current of a cable by taking different factors into account such as conductor temperature, the local environment  and other cables nearby.

Cable Sizing

Automatic cable sizing based on IEC 60364-5-52, BS 7671, NF C15-100, NF C 13-200, VDE 0298-4 and VDE 0276-100Support of standard Load Flow, LV Load Flow and User-defined Current optionsCable sizing optimisation priorityCable cross-sectionParallel cablesCostDownsizing of cablesConsideration of thermal loading constraints for linesConsideration of terminal voltage limits and limits on voltage change along feeders and/or cablesConsideration of short-circuit constraintsBalanced (positive sequence) or unbalanced calculation with support of all phase technologies (1-, 2- and 3-phase systems, with or without neutral conductor)System phase technology and cable type consistency checks in the feederVarious verification reports and automatic modification of cable types in the existing network via Network Variations

Cable Ampacity Calculation

Cable Ampacity calculation based on IEC 60287 or Neher-McGrath methodEvaluation of maximum allowable current for cables based on cable material, laying arrangement and environmental data including presence of external heat sourcesConvenient cable layout modelling capabilities, supporting all laying arrangements of single and multi-core cablesDetailed reports and automatic modification of cable derating factors in the existing network via Network Variations

Power Quality and Harmonic Analysis

With the Harmonic Load Flow Calculation and the Frequency Sweep Calculation, the user is able to analyse the modelled network in the frequency domain. The frequency-dependent network impedance offers valuable clues about possible resonances in the network and the effectiveness of countermeasures. The harmonic load flow combines the network impedance with harmonic sources, resulting in the level of the harmonic distortion for each location in the network.

Harmonic Load Flow

Harmonic voltage and current indices (IEC 61000-3-6, BDEW 2008)Balanced (positive sequence) and unbalanced (multiphase) modelOption to consider n-1 / n-k contingencies¹Unbalanced harmonic sourcesNon-characteristic and inter-harmonicsMultiple harmonic injections: current and voltage sources, thyristor rectifiers, PWM-converters, SVS, non-linear loads, Norton-equivalentsBackground distortion frequency-dependent R and L valuesVarious harmonic distortion indices such as THD, HD, HF, THF, TAD, TIFmx, total RMS currents and voltages, loadings and losses (defined according to IEEE and DIN/IEC standards)Harmonic distortion plot with pre-defined distortion limits according to international standardsWaveform plotsCalculation of K-Factors and Loss Factors for 2-winding transformers (UL1562, EN 50464-3 (replaces BS7821), EN 50541-2, IEEE C.57.110-1998)

Flicker Analysis

Flicker Assessment (IEC 61400-21):Short- and long-term flicker disturbance factor for continuous and switching operationsRelative voltage changesFlickermeter (IEC 61000-4-15):EMT or RMS signalsSupport of multiple file formats as COMTRADE, CSV, user-defined, etc.

Frequency Sweep

Automatic step size adaption or constant step sizeBalanced (positive sequence) and unbalanced network modelOption to consider n-1 / n-k contingencies¹Self and mutual impedances/admittances (phase and sequence components)Automatic identification of resonancesFrequency-dependent R and L values and line/cable modelsSpectral density of voltage amplitude/angleRisk assessment of sub-synchronous oscillations using radiality factors

Filter Analysis

Various filter modelsDesign and layout parametersFilter sizing and verification reportsRipple control analysis

¹ Requires Contingency Analysis licence

Connection Request Assessment

The assessment of connection requests is simplified with this dedicated tool, which supports the D-A-CH-CZ, BDEW and VDE-AR-N 4105 guidelines. After creating and configuring the Connection Request element based on the given data, the assessment can be performed like any other calculation. The output report shows dedicated results for each of the aspects to be assessed, such as voltage changes, flicker and harmonics.

According to:D-A-CH-CZ guidelines Editions 2 and 3BDEW 2008, 4th supplementVDE-AR-N 4105 guidelines (2011 and 2018)VDE-AR-N 4100 guidelines (2018)VDE-AR-N 4110 guidelines (2011 and 2018)Assessment of:Voltage changes and flickerVoltage imbalanceLoadings and short-circuit currentsHarmonics, interharmonics, audio-frequency ripple controlCommutation notchesInterharmonic voltagesHV resonances

Transmission Network Tools

This suite of tools aimed at transmission network operators and planners includes options for analysing the voltage stability and power transfer capabilities of the network.

PV curves calculation

Voltage stability assessment by determination of critical point of voltage instabilitySupport contingency analysis, i.e. detection of “limiting contingency”¹

QV curves calculation

Voltage stability limit assessment by evaluating the bus voltage change w.r.t. variation of injected reactive powerEvaluating of stable operating points for various system loading scenarios, including contingencies¹Determination of reactive power compensation by superposition of capacitor characteristics in QV plots

Power Transfer Distribution Factors

Analysis of the impact of a power exchange between two regionsVarious load and generation scaling options

Transfer Capacity Analysis

Determination of maximum power transfer capacity between two regionsVarious load and generation scaling options for exporting and importing regionThermal, voltage and contingency constraints options

Flow Decomposition

Calculation of loop flows, transit flows and import/export power flowsIdentification of HVDC- and phase-shifting transformer induced cycle flows

¹ Requires Contingency Analysis licence

Distribution Network Tools

The Distribution Network Tools functions can be used to analyse and improve the key aspects of a distribution network. The range of tools begins with the determination of the optimal tie open point according to the minimisation of losses or reliability indices, whilst observing network constraints. It continues with the optimisation of the voltage profile, with the objective to be prepared for a growing number of distributed energy resources or a growing number of loads within the LV network through estimation of the optimal tap position of the distribution transformers. For unbalanced network conditions, the phase balance optimisation helps to find an optimal balance for the load and generation units between the three phases.

The package also includes a tool for optimising capacitor placement and a hosting capacity tool for evaluating the maximum distributed energy resources and/or spare load capacity of the network.

Low Voltage Load Flow Calculation

Load flow calculation which takes into account the stochastic consumption behaviour of loadsUse of coincidence curves linked to LV loadsOptional scaling and coupling

Hosting Capacity Analysis

Evaluation of the maximum distributed energy resources (DER) and/or spare load capacity of a networkConsideration of thermal, voltage, protection¹ and power quality limits²Graphical visualisation of maximum, minimum and average capacity of the systemTabular reports of the maximum capacities and limiting components for feeders and terminalsParallel computing using multiple processor cores

¹Requires Protection Function licence
²Requires Power Quality and Harmonics Analysis licence

Tie Open Point Optimisation

Optimisation of tie open point positions subject to loss minimisation, ­improvement of system reliability, or minimisation of switching actionsSupport of balanced/unbalanced systemsSimultaneous optimisation of single or multiple scenarios and time periodsBranch and boundary flow limits, absolute voltage, and voltage drop/rise constraintsEnhanced reporting features and graphical visualisation, including ­automatic identification of tie open pointsVarious methodologies, such as mesh exploration heuristic, ­genetic algorithms, and simulated annealing

Voltage Profile Optimisation

Verification and optimisation modeVoltage profile optimisation for bi-directional power flows in systems with a high level of distributed generationDetermination of optimal distribution transformer tap positions for production and consumption cases (simultaneous or independent)Combined consideration of MV and LV feeder voltage profiles with enhanced plotting features

Phase Balance Optimisation

Automatic reconnection of loads, generators, and/or branch elements in order to achieve minimal power imbalanceMinimisation of unbalance at feeding point or average imbalance in feederHigh flexibility to also allow for partial reconfigurationCapturing of results via Variations for convenient toggling of original and optimised phase connectionsVarious methodologies, such as standard heuristics, genetic algorithms, and simulated annealing

Optimal Equipment Placement

Determination of optimal locations and sizes of new storage units and voltage regulatorsEconomic assessment to minimise the overall costs including costs for installation, operation and maintenanceOptimisation of existing storage units, voltage regulators and transformersUser-definable time periods and resolutionsConsideration of thermal and voltage limits, as well as equipment-specific constraintsAutomated generation of optimal time characteristics for power dispatch of storage units and tap positions of voltage regulatorsNumerous reporting facilities and result visualisationsFor standard size optimisation problems: ships with built-in solverFor solving large-scale problems: integrated interface to external solvers such as CPLEX and GUROBI¹

¹CPLEX and GUROBI licences to be purchased separately

Optimal Capacitor Placement

Determination of optimal locations, types, phase technology and sizes of capacitorsEconomic assessment considering costs of losses against installation costs under predefined voltage constraintsSupport of load variation via characteristics

Economic Analysis Tools

The Economic Analysis Tools package provides a means of combining conventional network analyses with economic considerations, to assess the economic impact of network and power plant developments.

The Techno-Economical Calculation (TechEco) function can be used to analyse costs and benefits of network expansion using Net Present Value. TechEco analyses investment costs, cost of losses, interruption costs and the economic impact of project schedules.

Power Park Energy Analysis provides an evaluation of the profitability of power plants based on load flow calculations, including options for time-series and probabilistic analysis.

Techno-Economical Analysis

Economic assessment of network expansion strategiesNet Present Value method considering costs of losses, investment costs, economic impact of failure rates (only with Reliability Analysis functions), and project schedulesEfficiency ratio evaluation to determine optimal year of investmentParallelised execution using multiple coresStudy Case Comparison tool, for the evaluation and comparison of different network development strategiesReporting options for input data and calculation results

Power Park Energy Analysis

Economic evaluation of power plants based on load flow calculations, with three calculation methods for energy analysisBasic Analysis:Designed for power parks consisting of wind generatorsSimulation of power generation via wind speed distribution (Weibull) and wind power curvesTime-series Analysis¹:Energy analysis of power parks over a user-defined period of time using the quasi-dynamic simulationHighly flexible data input, using characteristics for many network equipment parametersProbabilistic Analysis²:Power park energy analysis, taking probability distributions of various quantities into accountMonte-Carlo and Quasi-Monte Carlo methods availableRange of further statistical evaluation possibilitiesComprehensive report function: report losses, profits and costs, energies, full load hours and moreSelection of relevant plots with predefined variables

¹Requires Quasi-Dynamic Simulation licence

²Requires Probabilistic Analysis licence

Probabilistic Analysis

The Probabilistic Analysis allows network assessment based on probabilistic input data rather than assessment of individual operation scenarios or time sweeps. It becomes important as soon as input parameters are known to be random or if one wants to simulate the grid at some time in the future with forecast errors.

A probabilistic assessment processes probabilistic data input and produces stochastic results.

Probabilistic Analysis is offered for:

Load Flow Analysis;Optimal Power Flow.¹Network assessment based on probabilistic input dataSupports Probabilistic Load Flow and Probabilistic Assessment of OPF¹Unlimited stochastic input data modelling with flexible distribution curve objectsIncludes probabilistic modelling of generation with PV systems and/or wind generators, as well as variable load consumptionSupport of numerous distributions, such as uniform, normal, log-normal, Weibull, exponential, geometric, Bernoulli, finite discreteModelling of dependencies via correlation objectsAuto-conversion tool to estimate distributions and correlations based on historic profiles/time series dataMonte Carlo and fast Quasi-Monte Carlo methodDetermination of statistical results for any calculation quantity, including means and standard deviations (with their confidence intervals), maxima, minima, higher order momentaRich post-processing and plotting facilities for calculation results, including their distribution functions, density functions, correlationsPost-assessment of critical worst-case or average cases via Probabilistic Analyzer

¹Probabilistic assessment of OPF also requires Optimal Power Flow licence

Reliability Analysis Functions

Network reliability assessment is used to calculate expected interruption frequencies and annual interruption costs. Reliability analysis is an automation and probabilistic extension of contingency evaluation. The relevance of each outage is considered using statistical data about the expected frequency and duration of outages, taking into account the protection systems and the network operator’s actions to re-supply interrupted customers. This optimal power restoration process can also be analysed and carried out for individual contingencies.
Reliability assessment involves determining, generally using statistical methods, the total electric interruptions for loads within a power system during an operating period. The interruptions and their effects are described by several indices, which are calculated in the simulation. Together with the reliability analysis, an optimal way of placing remote controlled switches (RCS) can be determined, in order to resupply as much demand as possible in the shortest time, with a given number of RCS.
The package also includes Generation Adequacy Analysis, where the system supply capabilities are analysed with the help of stochastic methods.

Failure models

Line/cable, transformer, distribution transformer, busbar and circuit breaker failuresGenerator failures with stochastic multi-state modeln-1, n-2 and common mode failures (n-k)Double earth faultsIndependent second failuresProtection/circuit breaker failuresProtection over-function

Optimal Power Restoration

Failure effect analysis (FEA)Automatic protection-based fault clearingIntelligent high-end system restoration with potential network ­reconfiguration and load-sheddingSupport of branch and boundary flow limits, absolute ­voltage and voltage drop/rise constraintsSectionalising (remote controlled switches, short-circuit ­indicators, manual restoration)Substation automation with switching rulesAnimated tracing of individual casesDetailed reports for restoration action plans

Reliability Assessment

Fast state enumeration for balanced/unbalanced systems, including optimal power restoration techniquesCalculation of all common reliability indices (IEEE 1366)Contribution of components to reliability indicesSupport of load variation, including load distribution curvesSupport of generation dispatch profilesConsideration of maintenance schedulesSupport of various tariff and cost modelsParallelised Reliability Assessment using multiple cores

Optimal Remote Control Switch (RCS) Placement

Determination of optimal number and locations for RCS installation for improvement of system reliabilityEconomic assessment for various objective functions

Optimal Manual Restoration

Calculation of optimal switching scheme for manual power restoration phase

Optimal Recloser Placement

Optimal locations for reclosers, to improve reliability indices

Generation Adequacy Analysis

Stochastic assessment of system supply capabilities (loss of load probabilities, capacity credit, etc.)Consideration of generator outages and maintenance schedules (Monte Carlo), as well as load variationEnhanced probabilistic models for wind generationRich suite of reporting and plotting tools

Loss of Grid Assessment

Risk assessment for loss of grid supply to critical power stations

Optimal Power Flow

The PowerFactory Optimal Power Flow serves adds intelligence to the existing load flow functions. Where the standard load flow calculates branch flows and busbar voltages based on specified “set points” (active/reactive power generation, generator voltage, transformer tap positions, etc.), the OPF then calculates the “best possible” values for optimising a user-specified objective function and a number of user-defined constraints.

Optimisation of load flow according to user-selected objective functionsFor AC Optimisation, standard solver or IPOPT solverFor DC Optimisation, standard CBC or LP solver, or commercial solvers such as CPLEX or GUROBI¹

Reactive Power Optimisation

Minimisation of total or partial grid lossesMaximisation of reactive power reserveReactive Power Optimisation (interior point method)Various controls such as:Generator reactive powerTransformer and shunt tapsStatic Var SystemsFlexible constraints such as:Branch flow and voltage limitsGenerator reactive power limitsReactive power reserveBoundary flows

Economic Dispatch

Requires OPF (Reactive Power Optimisation)Various objective functions, e.g.:Minimisation of lossesMinimisation of costs (eco dispatch)Minimisation of load sheddingOptimisation of remedial post fault actions, e.g. booster tap changes (pre- to post fault)AC optimisation (interior point method)DC optimisation (linear programming)Various controls such as:Generator active and reactive powerTransformer, quad booster and shunt tapsStatic Var SystemsFlexible constraints such as:Branch flow and voltage limitsGenerator active and reactive power limitsActive and reactive power reserveBoundary flowsContingency constraints (DC only)²

¹ CPLEX and GUROBI licences to be purchased separately
2 Requires Contingency Analysis licence

Unit Commitment and Dispatch Optimisation

The Unit Commitment and Dispatch Optimisation tool allows users to easily complement traditional network simulation with a market simulation, without any need for an external tool, providing a single entry point of information for simulation models. The module solves the unit commitment linear-programming problem over a predefined period of time, while optimising the operating point of the dispatched generators such to minimise overall operating costs. Hence it smoothly combines the functionalities of a Quasi-Dynamic Simulation, Optimal Power Flow and Contingency Analysis. The function supports both internal as well as external LP-solvers like IBM CPLEX and GUROBI, thereby allowing the integration of existing LP simulation environments into PowerFactory.

Power plant dispatch optimisation for Market SimulationMinimisation of redispatch costs, such as operating, emission and startup costs, including curtailment of renewables / load sheddingOptimisation (AC and/or DC) of generator dispatch schemes including hydro units, batteries and general storage devices, as well as control units such as phase shifters and HVDCsState-of-the-art solutions for performance and memory efficiencyUser-definable time periods and resolutionsHard and soft constraints including branch and boundary flow limits, voltages, as well as ramping, minimum up/down times or spinning reserves of generatorsConsideration of contingencies in the optimisation, including parallelisation option¹Curative redispatch options for managing contingencies¹Powerful redundant constraint filter methodsSeamless integration of all market parameters into network modelNumerous reporting facilities, and result visualisations, including energy plots and dispatch schedulesPost-assessment tools for detailed investigationsAutomated generation of optimal solution scenarios and time seriesFor standard size optimisation problems: ships with built-in solverFor solving large-scale problems: integrated optional interface to external solvers such as CPLEX or GUROBI²

¹ Requires Contingency Analysis licence
² CPLEX and GUROBI licences to be purchased separately

State Estimation

The State Estimation (SE) function of PowerFactory provides consistent load flow results for an entire power system, based on real time measurements, manually entered data and the network model. It provides bad data identification, observability analysis and state estimation.

Assessment of balanced and unbalanced networksP, Q, I and V-measurement modelsMeasurement plausibility checksAutomatic bad data detection/eliminationVerification of system observabilityVarious options to handle unobservable regions (e.g. pseudo measurements)Consideration of load flow constraints

Stability Analysis Functions (RMS)

The RMS simulation tool in PowerFactory can be used to analyse mid-term and long-term transients under both balanced and unbalanced conditions, incorporating a simulation scan feature.  DIgSILENT Simulation Language (DSL) is used for model definition, and a large library of IEEE standard models is available. Flexible co-simulation options are also available.

Multi-phase AC networks, DC networksSupport of balanced and unbalanced grid conditionsFast, fixed step size and adaptive step size algorithmA-stable numerical integration algorithms supporting long-term stability simulations with integration step sizes ranging from milliseconds to minutes, individually selectable for each modelHigh precision event and interrupt handlingSimulation of any kind of fault or eventTransient motor starting (synchr./asynchr. machines)Support of all protection library relaysReal-time simulation modeSimulation scan feature, e.g. frequency scan, loss of synchronism scan, synchronous machine speed scan, voltage-/voltage recovery scan, fault ride through scan or common variable scanFrequency Analysis Tool, including Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) and Prony Analysis for single point in time as well as time-range assessmentFrequency Response Analysis tool for dynamic models with Bode/Nyquist plots

User-Defined Dynamic Models (UDM)

High-level UDM RepresentationGraphical modelling environment for the development of UDMsSupport of native models (inbuilt elements, DSL and Modelica), as well as externally-interfaced models (FMI and IEC 61400-27)Support of highly scalable concepts for deployment of UDMs in large power networks using Composite Model Frames and Composite ModelsAccess to input/output signals of any network elementSupport of scalar and vector based signals as well as various signal multiplexing options for easy distribution of signals from/to many componentsNesting of Composite Model Frames enabling complex system architectures e.g. interfacing between dispatch center controls, power plant controls and subordinated power equipment componentsInbuilt support for creation of user-defined power electronics topologies for EMT Simulation via submodelsSupport of complete power equipment models: easily pack, export, import and deploy complex UDMs using General TemplatesDIgSILENT Simulation Language (DSL)Graphical modelling environment for development of complex DSL modelsLarge inbuilt library of DSL macros for simplified creation of block diagramsSupport of complex non-linear time-continuous control models including advanced functionality e.g. step size independent solution, instantaneous event triggering, fast simulation optionsInbuilt editor for coding user-defined DSL models using DIgSILENT Simulation LanguageLarge inbuilt standard model library, including IEEE, IEC, WECC and CIM ENTSO-E modelsAutomatic initialisation of complex, non-linear modelsConfiguration script for initialisation using DPLCompilation of DSL models into DLLs for improved simulation performanceOption for automatic compilation of DSL modelsDSL Encryption function¹ for protection of intellectual property data when using non-compiled (open) DSL modelsModelica Simulation LanguageGraphical modelling environment for development of complex Modelica modelsInbuilt library of Modelica basic blocks for simplified creation of models containing hierarchically structured block diagramsSupport of time discrete (clocked) control models including array signals and variables, sequential algorithms and selectable data typesInbuilt editor for coding user-defined models using Modelica LanguageHierarchical parameter structure for Modelica modelsConfiguration script for initialisation using DPLExport Modelica model using the FMU Export function²Interfaces for Dynamic ModelsImport external models using Functional Mock-up Interface (FMI 2.0 for Co-Simulation, FMI 2.0 for Model Exchange)Import external models using IEC 61400-27 DLL C-interfaceCommunicate with external components using the OPC interface³ or various applications (e.g. real-time simulation)Communicate with external components using the IEEE C37.118 simulation interface⁴ for PMU data streaming

Co-Simulation Functionality

Single domain co-simulation (RMS balanced – RMS balanced, RMS unbalanced – RMS unbalanced, EMT EMT⁵)Multiple domain co-simulation (RMS balanced – RMS unbalanced – EMT⁵)Co-simulation with external solver⁶ (e.g. third party power systems ­simulation program) using FMI 2.0 (Functional Mock-Up Interface)Computing supported as built-in for increased performanceBoth accurate (implicit) and fast (explicit) co-simulation methods ­availableSupport of multi-port Norton/Thevenin remote network equivalents for explicit methodEasy to define co-simulation border using boundary objectsAny number of co-simulation regions can be definedCo-simulation of networks split by regions depending on any criteria: localisation, voltage levels, etc.

¹ Licence for DPL/DSL/QDSL encryption required. Encryption Function licence. DIgSILENT does not give any express warranties or guarantees for cryptographic security of encrypted models. In particular, DIgSILENT does not guarantee that the details and functionalities of an encrypted model are secure against all means of access or attack attempts.
² Requires FMU Model Export licence
³ OPC interface licence required
⁴ C37 Simulation Interface licence required
⁵ EMT licence required
⁶ Requires separate Co-Simulation Interface licence

Electromagnetic Transients (EMT)

PowerFactory provides an EMT simulation kernel for solving power system transient problems such as lightning, switching and temporary over-voltages, inrush currents, ferro-resonance effects or sub-synchronous resonance problems. Together with a comprehensive model library, a graphical, user-definable modelling system (DSL), and options for co-simulation, it provides an extremely flexible and powerful platform for solving power system electromagnetic transient problems.

Integrated simulation of electromagnetic transients in multiphase AC and DC systemsFast, fixed step size or adaptive step size algorithmSimulation of static var compensations (SVC), thyristor controlled series compensations (TCSC), FACTS, STATCOM, etc.Modelling of HVDC interconnections: line commutated converter (LCC) HVDC, two-level PWM Converter, half- and full-bridge MMC converterPower electronic devices and discrete components (diode, thyristor, PWM converter, rectifier/inverter, DC valve, soft starter, etc.)Support of advanced constant and frequency-dependent distributed parameter models for OHL and cablesPhase- and modal-domain model typesParameter calculation for overhead lines and cablesTwisting overhead lines and cross-bonding of cablesMulti-phase single-/ multi-core, cable and tubular cable systemsCalculation of layer impedances and admittancesNon-linear elements and saturation characteristics, including definition of hysteresisSeries capacitors, including spark gap modelSurge arrestor modelsImpulse voltage and current source for lightning surge analysisSupport of AC-DC intercircuit fault eventsAccurate EMT models of renewable generation (wind/PV, etc.) and storage systemsDiscrete R-L-C elementsFlexible template definition to create and re-utilise user- specific models libraryInsulation coordination analysis including temporary (TOV), switching (SOV) and lightning (LOV) transient over-voltagesStochastic switching analysis and point-on-wave (POW) switchingSimulation scan feature (variable scan)Frequency Analysis Tool, including Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) and Prony Analysis for single point in time as well as time-range assessmentInrush, ferro-resonance, SSR and TRV studiesCOMTRADE file supportSophisticated circuit breaker modelling and switch event options: DC breaker support, TRV envelope curve, phase scatter upon switching

User-Defined Dynamic Models

see RMS module for details

Co-Simulation Functionality

see RMS module for details

Motor Starting Functions

The Motor Starting Toolbox enables quick assessment of various motor starting scenarios and their impact on the system and reports commonly needed performance indicators like voltage drop before/during/after starting, starting time, grid loading, etc. The analysis is carried out via either a static calculation or a dynamic simulation.
The toolbox features an easy to use analysis procedure that increases productivity while still retaining model customisation flexibility.

Single or multiple motor startingTransient motor starting (synchr./asynchr. motors), with full support of controller modelsSteady-state motor startingVarious motor starting methods (reactor, auto-transformer, variable rotor resistance, star delta, etc.)Thermal limit check of cables and transformersAutomatic starting check function, visualised in Single Line DiagramDetailed report

Small Signal Stability (Eigenvalue Analysis)

DIgSILENT PowerFactory offers a module for the analysis of the small signal stability in a power network, using an eigenvalue analysis tool which is suitable for balanced and unbalanced network representations. The calculation can be configured to consider all modes of oscillation in the system, or to perform a selective analysis (especially useful in large networks). It considers not only conventional generation, but also non-conventional generation such as wind turbines, PV systems and HVDC.  The results can be visualised in an eigenvalue plot or tabular reports, including all relevant information such as frequency of oscillation, damping and damping ratio. In addition, the participation factors of the state variables, observability (right eigenvectors) and controllability (left eigenvectors) can be visualised in bar and phasor plots.

Full and selective eigenvalue analysisBalanced (positive sequence) or unbalanced network representation, ­including combined AC and DC modelling, with non-conventional generation such as wind turbines, PV systems, HVDC, VSC and other FACTS devicesInteractive and mutually linked eigenvalue, mode bar and mode phasor plotsVisualisation of eigenvectors in network diagramsTabular reports of eigenvalues, including damped frequencies, damping time constantsDetailed reports of oscillatory modes including participation factors of state variables, controllability
and observability

System Parameter Identification

This built-in system of identification and general optimisation procedures provide an easy and accurate method to perform model parameter identification on the basis of system tests and field measurements, working from input reference values generated in PowerFactory or taken from external files. Suitable for load flow models as well as time-domain simulation models, it is able to identify multiple parameters at once, with constrained (only positive) and unconstrained options available for each parameter and is fully integrated into the graphical frame definition and block diagrams. The optimisation procedures provided are highly generic and can also be used for optimally tuning parameters such as PSS settings according to defined model response functions.

Parameter estimation of non-linear dynamic MIMO-systems fully integrated with DSL modellingBlack box parameter estimation of non-linear systemsIdentification of any calculation relevant parameter (type, element, control model)Multi-parameter identification with flexible upper/lower limitationVarious algorithms available (gradient based, swarm intelligence, pattern search, global optimisers)Support of load flow, Quasi-Dynamic Simulation¹, RMS-simulation (balanced/unbalanced) and EMT-simulation²Multiple options for optimisation, using field measurement data or simulation results

¹Requires Quasi-Dynamic Simulation licence
² Requires Stability Analysis Functions (RMS) or Electromagnetic Transients (EMT) licence

Scripting and Automation

Automation of PowerFactory tasks is possible using Python or the DIgSILENT Programming Language (DPL), and is further enhanced with Add-on Modules to allow users to extend the existing PowerFactory Functionality.

Python: Integration of Python as programming language with full PowerFactory data model access, extensive suite of functions, and support of virtual Python environmentsDPL (DIgSILENT Programming Language):C-like syntax supporting unlimited access to PowerFactory objects, parameters and their functionalityExtendable function scope of DPL via C-Interface, thus allowing access to external data and applicationsEncryption of DPL Scripts¹Detailed Scripting Reference documentation for Python/DPL (750+ pages) including function descriptions and example code snippetsAdd-on Modules: framework for user-extendable function scope including data model extension concept for user-definable input attributes and result parametersAPI (Application Interface): C++ interface for full external automation of PowerFactoryTask Automation Tool for parallelised execution of calculation functions and scripts

¹Requires DPL/DSL/QDSL Encryption Function licence. DIgSILENT does not give any express warranties or guarantees for cryptographic security of encrypted models. In particular, DIgSILENT does not guarantee that the details and functionalities of an encrypted model are secure against all means of access or attack attempts.

Artificial Intelligence

Innovative use of neural networks for fast power system analysisAutomatic generation of datasets for neural network trainingTraining of neural networks using GPU capabilites¹Application of trained neural networks for ultra-fast Quasi-Dynamic Simulations

¹Requires dedicated NVIDIA GPU with a compute capability of 3.5 or higher

Interfaces

API Application Interface (API is part of the module Scripting and Automation)OPC DA/UA Interface¹ SCADA interoperability standard, A/D signal interfacingIEEE C37.118 simulation interface² – PMU protocolCo-Simulation interface³ Third party EMT/RMS co-simulation interface based on the FMI 2.0 standard

¹Requires OPC Interface licence
²Requires C37 Simulation Interface licence
³Requires Co-Simulation Interface licence

DPL/DSL/QDSL Encryption

The “DPL/DSL/QDSL Encryption“ module offers the possibility to encrypt the script code of a DPL-/DSL-/QDSL-object and protect it with a password. The encrypted object can be executed without the password. However, the password needs to be entered to edit or view the script code.¹

¹The user should be aware that encryption can never guarantee complete security. The chosen technology balances the requirements for security with the usability and performance of encrypted models. Generally, users are advised to share models only with trusted partners.