Comprehensive Validation of Power and Energy Systems: Achievements, Experiences, and Lessons Learned from the European Research Infrastructure ERIGrid

Core Concepts

The ERIGrid project developed an integrated, cyber-physical systems-based, multi-domain approach for the holistic testing and validation of smart grid solutions to address the increasing complexity of power system operation.

Abstract

The paper provides an overview of the main achievements and results of the ERIGrid project, which aimed to tackle the research and development needs for validating smart grid configurations from a holistic, cyber-physical systems perspective.

The key highlights include:

1. Development of a holistic validation methodology and improvement of simulation-based methods, hardware-in-the-loop approaches, and lab-based testing for comprehensive smart grid validation. This includes the creation of a procedural support for adopting complex test platforms, co-simulation techniques, and multi-laboratory integration through the JaNDER platform.

2. Creation of educational resources, such as e-learning tools, hands-on laboratory exercises, webinars, and training schools, to develop the necessary skills and expertise for the energy transition among students, researchers, and professionals.

3. Provision of free access to the ERIGrid research infrastructure, comprising 19 facilities across 11 European countries, to external researchers, engineers, and students through 75 implemented user projects covering a wide range of smart grid-related topics.

The paper also discusses the experiences and lessons learned from these activities, as well as the need for further research and development to address the integration of electric power systems with other energy domains and the standardization of multi-domain cyber-physical energy systems validation procedures.

Stats

"Power system operation is of vital importance and must be developed far beyond today's practice to meet future needs."
"Nearly all European countries are facing an abrupt and very important increase of renewables with intrinsically varying yields which are difficult to predict."
"An increase of new types of electric loads and a reduction of traditional production from bulk generation can be observed as well."
"The level of complexity of system operation steadily increases."
"ERIGrid provided free access to 19 facilities across 11 European countries to external researchers, engineers, and students through 75 implemented user projects."

Quotes

"Previous and ongoing research have tended to focus on how specific aspects of smart grids can be developed and validated, but until now there exists no integrated approach for analysing and evaluating complex CPES configurations."
"System-level validation of smart grid solutions can be a complex effort. A typical CPES solution, such as a distribution grid centralized demand response control system encompasses multiple disciplines (market, ICT, automation, infrastructure, etc.) and physical infrastructures (electricity, communication networks, etc.)."
"Tackling the contemporary significant challenges requires a skilled workforce and researchers with systemic/holistic thinking and problem-solving skills."

Key Insights Distilled From

Achievements, Experiences, and Lessons Learned from the European Research Infrastructure ERIGrid related to the Validation of Power and Energy Systems

by T. I... at arxiv.org 04-25-2024

https://arxiv.org/pdf/2404.15796.pdf

Deeper Inquiries

How can the holistic validation approach developed in ERIGrid be extended to address the integration of electric power systems with other energy domains, such as thermal, gas, and transportation?

The holistic validation approach developed in ERIGrid can be extended to address the integration of electric power systems with other energy domains by incorporating multi-domain testing methodologies. This extension would involve developing new validation procedures that consider the interactions and interdependencies between different energy systems.
One way to achieve this is by creating standardized test cases and scenarios that encompass the integration of electric power systems with thermal, gas, and transportation systems. These test cases should reflect real-world scenarios where these systems interact, allowing for comprehensive validation of the integrated energy systems.
Furthermore, the development of simulation tools that can model the behavior of multiple energy domains simultaneously would be crucial. These tools should enable the testing of complex interactions between electric power systems and other energy domains, providing a more realistic validation environment.
Collaboration with experts from the respective energy domains is essential to ensure that the validation procedures capture the specific characteristics and challenges of each domain. By involving experts in thermal, gas, and transportation systems, the holistic validation approach can be tailored to address the unique requirements of integrating these systems with electric power systems.
Overall, extending the holistic validation approach to include other energy domains requires a multidisciplinary approach, standardized test cases, advanced simulation tools, and collaboration with domain experts to ensure comprehensive and accurate validation of integrated energy systems.

How can the potential barriers and challenges in standardizing multi-domain cyber-physical energy systems validation procedures be overcome?

Standardizing multi-domain cyber-physical energy systems validation procedures faces several potential barriers and challenges that need to be addressed to ensure successful implementation. Some of these barriers include:

Diverse System Characteristics: Different energy domains have unique characteristics and requirements, making it challenging to develop standardized validation procedures that cater to all domains.

Interoperability Issues: Ensuring seamless communication and interoperability between different energy systems during validation can be complex, especially when dealing with diverse technologies and protocols.

Lack of Common Standards: The absence of common standards for multi-domain validation procedures can hinder the development of unified approaches.

To overcome these challenges, the following strategies can be implemented:

Collaborative Framework: Establishing a collaborative framework that brings together experts from various energy domains to develop standardized validation procedures. This collaboration can ensure that the procedures are comprehensive and inclusive of all domain-specific requirements.

Development of Common Guidelines: Creating common guidelines and protocols for multi-domain validation procedures can help streamline the process and ensure consistency across different energy systems.

Integration of Simulation Tools: Implementing advanced simulation tools that can simulate the interactions between different energy domains can facilitate the standardization of validation procedures. These tools should be flexible enough to accommodate the diverse characteristics of each domain.

Continuous Improvement: Regularly reviewing and updating the standardized validation procedures to incorporate new technologies, best practices, and lessons learned from validation activities can help in overcoming evolving challenges.

By adopting these strategies and fostering collaboration among experts, addressing interoperability issues, and developing common guidelines, the barriers to standardizing multi-domain cyber-physical energy systems validation procedures can be effectively mitigated.

How can the educational resources and training activities developed in ERIGrid be further expanded to reach a broader audience and foster the development of a skilled workforce for the energy transition?

Expanding the reach of the educational resources and training activities developed in ERIGrid to a broader audience is crucial for fostering the development of a skilled workforce for the energy transition. To achieve this, the following strategies can be implemented:

Online Platforms: Utilizing online platforms and learning management systems to make the educational resources easily accessible to a wider audience. This can include hosting webinars, creating interactive modules, and providing virtual lab access.

Collaboration with Educational Institutions: Partnering with universities, technical schools, and training centers to integrate ERIGrid's educational materials into their curricula. This collaboration can help reach a larger student population and ensure the sustainability of the training programs.

Industry Partnerships: Collaborating with industry partners to offer specialized training programs and workshops that address the specific needs of the energy sector. Industry partnerships can also provide opportunities for hands-on training and real-world experience.

Professional Development Programs: Developing professional development programs for energy professionals and researchers to enhance their skills and knowledge in cyber-physical energy systems. These programs can include certifications, workshops, and mentoring opportunities.

Outreach and Promotion: Conducting outreach activities, such as conferences, seminars, and promotional campaigns, to raise awareness about the educational resources and training activities offered by ERIGrid. Engaging with professional associations and networks can also help in reaching a broader audience.

Feedback and Continuous Improvement: Gathering feedback from users and stakeholders to continuously improve the educational resources and training activities. Incorporating feedback ensures that the programs remain relevant and effective in meeting the evolving needs of the energy sector.

By implementing these strategies, ERIGrid can expand its educational reach, engage a broader audience, and contribute to the development of a skilled workforce equipped to drive the energy transition towards a sustainable future.