Power system simulators

The growing complexity and interconnected operation of power systems have necessitated the introduction of energy management systems (EMS) in load dispatch centres. While the widespread use of EMS has proved its usefulness, it has also opened up new challenges. Amongst them two areas of vital interest are development of tools for training of operating personnel, and testing the suitability and functional efficiency of the hardware and software developed for use in EMS before they are installed for regular operational purposes. To realise these two tasks, the development of power system simulators, which simulate the dynamic and steady state behaviour of the system has become necessary. The authors review the general requirements and structure of power system simulators and present the salient features of the power system simulator developed at the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras. The limitations of present day simulators and possible improvements in simulator technology are also discussed