Simulation, Training & Testing on the Distribution Grid: Experiencing the Control Room

When electric distribution utilities are faced with the need to train operators and dispatchers, there is usually not a straightforward solution. Hiring, training and retaining operators and dispatchers is a continual challenge for electric distribution utilities. Learning on the job can be time consuming and also reduces operator efficiency. Utilities are understandably reticent about allowing the real-time Advanced Distribution Management Solution (ADMS) to be used for training purposes, while standard training methods often prove ineffective in accurately reflecting both real-time grid conditions and realistic impacts from operator actions.

Utilities also need to proactively plan for operational change management due to the growth in distributed energy resources (DERs) and grid modernization activities, as well as to prepare for storms and other natural disasters.

Train & Test on GE Digital’s Distribution Operations Training Simulator

As a component of the ADMS portfolio, GE Digital’s Distribution Operations Training Simulator (DOTS) enables training operators and dispatchers, in both routine and emergency operations, in an environment that accurately represents the behavior and response of the real system.

Rather than users waiting to experience challenging events on-the-job, utility staff are able to familiarize themselves with advanced applications functionality and gain an understanding of how they interact with other subsystems of the ADMS. This integrated system uses the same software components, programmatic interfaces and UI as our real-time ADMS, and creates an effective training and testing environment to operate with the actual network model, data, and functions in a controlled and safe environment—without the risk of disturbing the real-world system. Within DOTS, the Event Scripter allows complex training scenarios to be developed while the Simulated Power System Model generates the required network responses and the power flow data points are fed to the simulated SCADA.

DOTS also empowers utilities to test functionality, carry out stress tests and run scenario analysis, and allows them to simulate new business processes and challenges, including the impact of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), on grid operations. With the flexibility to look at future events and run different scenarios for summer peak loads, weekend conditions, etc., utilities can easily forecast and plan for the future.

The solution has also proven to be an effective tool for performance testing of new software releases. Utilities can build sophisticated events scenarios from historical data or fabricate new events and stress test new releases before moving an upgraded system over to production.

In addition, the DOTS environment is also useful in validating the model management processes. This includes the extract, transform, and load processes to move the core asset model data from a source GIS to the Distribution Network Operations Model.

DOTS delivers real results for Distribution operators:

• Lowers Total Cost of Ownership. Leverages the same models and display definitions created and maintained in the production system—there is no need for specialized model requiring additional maintenance

• Training and Certification. Utilities can train and certify operators and dispatchers in routine and complex operations with accurate system response

• Run Realistic Emergency Preparedness Drills. Utilities can create scripts of widespread outage events with simulated customer outage calls to test response

• Analyze Business Processes. Utilities can analyze historical outages to create best practices and improvements in grid operations and also simulate future scenarios with high penetration of DERs and Distribution Automation

GE’s Distribution Operations Training Simulator, analogous to a flight simulator for training pilots, is an ideal tool for users to interact with the ADMS in a controlled and safe environment.