Power system analysis involves modelling and simulating how electrical power systems behave under different conditions and across different timescales.
Why is good power system analysis important?
Both increased renewable power generation and new forms of variable electricity consumption introduce new phenomena and make the operation of the power system more complex than we have been used to. The requirements for system security and resilience are also generally increasing across Europe. This increases the need for power system analysis across all timescales. New technologies provide large amounts of real-time measurements that can improve analyses and support the management of unwanted events.
What is SINTEF's expertise in power system analysis?
SINTEF Energy has extensive expertise in the simulation and analysis of power systems, used both in cutting-edge research projects and in assignments for various customers. We can provide power system simulations across a broad range of timescales: from sub-microseconds for EMT simulations of smaller systems, to milliseconds for dynamic RMS simulations of large systems, and further to seconds, minutes, hours and longer time horizons for linking grid and market analyses with long-term power system planning.
SINTEF Energy has in-depth knowledge of how different simulation tools work under the hood. Such an understanding is essential for selecting the right modelling and simulation algorithms, as well as for identifying when results are affected by numerical issues and troubleshooting is required. A particular strength is SINTEF Energy's expertise in the modelling and behaviour of components such as power electronic converters, as well as high-bandwidth models for transformers and cables.
Typical assignments we undertake:
Power system stability analysis
SINTEF Energy has expertise in the integration of power electronics into the power system and is a leading Norwegian expert in stability and interoperability analyses. This includes time-domain analysis, state-space methods and impedance-based methods.
Automation of modelling and simulations
Our specialist programming expertise has been used to automate modelling and simulations, for example by updating data in PSCAD, PSS/E or PowerFactory. SINTEF Energy also has experience with automatic conversion of models between platforms, such as converting a large simulation model of the Norwegian power system from PSS/E to PSCAD. This is useful both for efficient model updates and for performing sensitivity analyses under parameter uncertainty. This expertise is also valuable for verifying the quality of parameters and, where data is incomplete, estimating likely values.
Analysis of fault situations, island operation and restoration
SINTEF Energy has expertise in, and experience with, analysing PMU measurements from fault situations, including analysis of power oscillations, voltage stability and island operation situations, both in Norway and elsewhere in Europe. SINTEF Energy also has expertise in modelling and analysing so-called HILP events (High Impact, Low Probability), i.e. extraordinary events that have major consequences for the power system but occur rarely.
Supply reliability and fault statistics
For several decades, SINTEF Energy has developed methodologies and prototype tools for analysing supply reliability in collaboration with NTNU, Statnett and the Norwegian and European grid industry. One example is the SAMREL/OPAL methodology for combining market analyses (Samnett) with contingency analyses and reliability analysis of meshed networks.
Since 1995, SINTEF Energy has been responsible for developing the specification for the registration and reporting of faults and interruptions in the power system (FASIT). SINTEF Energy has also worked on outage time models for components based on expert assessments and probabilistic/Bayesian modelling, as well as fault statistics.
Transient analysis
SINTEF Energy has leading expertise in fault analysis using EMT software, particularly with regard to fast transients. Analysis of transient overvoltages caused by faults, switching operations and lightning strikes requires reliable and accurate models, even in the MHz range. We have developed methods for characterising components over a wide frequency range and for synthesising high-bandwidth models using fitting methods. This is particularly valuable for modelling power lines, cables and transformers. In addition, SINTEF Energy has extensive expertise in the effects and modelling of different grounding methods.
Modelling for power quality analysis
SINTEF Energy has several decades of experience in problem-solving assignments related to power quality and has contributed to the development of tools for emission limit calculations for new connections. Typical assignments include measurement and analysis related to power quality complaints, as well as frequency-dependent modelling of grids for emission limit calculations.
Laboratory facilities
The Smart Grid Laboratory is used for demonstration, verification and testing of smart grids.
Tools and technology
SINTEF Energy has access to a wide range of tools for power system analysis across different timescales, both for simulation and analysis under normal operating conditions and for fault scenarios. These include both commercial tools and tools developed in-house that are not commercially available.
Why choose SINTEF?
Through national and international research, SINTEF Energy maintains a comprehensive and up-to-date knowledge base. As a leader or partner in major research projects such as GP OceanGrid and FME SecurEL, SINTEF Energy has a strong overview of the research frontier and the latest developments in technical power system analysis.
Who do we do this for?
- Norwegian and international grid companies
- Statnett and international transmission system operators
- Energy-intensive industry and other consumers
- Power generation companies
Relevant projects
- NEWEPS (Nordic Early Warning Early Prevention System)
- Case study on supply reliability for data centres
- IPN FREKI
- GP OceanGrid
- FME SecurEL
- FME CINELDI