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Understanding Grid Stability: Pss/e For Dynamic System Studies Training Course in Finland

Introduction

In the intricate and ever-evolving landscape of modern power systems, maintaining dynamic stability is paramount for reliable and secure operation. The increasing penetration of renewable energy sources, the complexity of interconnections, and the growing demand for electricity introduce dynamic challenges that cannot be fully assessed with steady-state analysis alone. PSS/E (Power System Simulator for Engineering) is a widely recognized and industry-standard software tool specifically designed for comprehensive power system analysis, with a strong focus on dynamic system studies. It enables engineers to simulate the transient and dynamic behavior of power systems following disturbances, ranging from sudden load changes and generator trips to fault conditions and control system responses. By accurately modeling synchronous machines, exciters, governors, and various control devices, PSS/E empowers engineers to predict system stability limits, design effective control strategies, and ensure grid resilience. Without proficiency in PSS/E for Dynamic System Studies, power system professionals would lack the essential tools to rigorously analyze, predict, and mitigate these critical dynamic behaviors, underscoring the vital need for specialized training in this powerful simulation environment. This comprehensive training course focuses on equipping professionals with the expertise to master PSS/E for Dynamic System Studies.

This training course is meticulously designed to empower electrical engineers, power system analysts, system planners, control system designers, and researchers with the theoretical understanding and practical skills necessary to effectively utilize PSS/E for Dynamic System Studies. Participants will gain hands-on experience in building and managing detailed dynamic models, performing various types of stability analyses, interpreting complex simulation results, and designing mitigation strategies for dynamic phenomena. The course will delve into topics such as modeling synchronous and asynchronous machines, implementing exciters and governors, performing transient stability analysis, analyzing small signal (modal) stability, designing and tuning Power System Stabilizers (PSS), simulating HVDC and FACTS device dynamics, and conducting voltage stability studies. By mastering the principles and practical application of PSS/E for Dynamic System Studies, participants will be prepared to accurately diagnose and solve complex dynamic problems, enhance grid reliability and resilience, optimize system design, and contribute significantly to the advanced planning and safe operation of modern electrical grids.

Duration: 10 Days

Target Audience

  • Electrical Engineers (Power Systems)
  • Power System Analysts
  • System Planners
  • Control System Engineers (Power)
  • Transmission Engineers
  • Generation Engineers
  • Renewable Energy Grid Integration Specialists
  • Consulting Engineers
  • Academics and Researchers in Power Systems
  • Grid Operations Support Engineers

Objectives

  • Understand the fundamental concepts of power system dynamic stability (transient, small-signal, voltage).
  • Learn the architecture and capabilities of PSS/E for dynamic simulation.
  • Acquire skills in building and managing detailed dynamic models in PSS/E.
  • Comprehend techniques for performing comprehensive transient stability analysis.
  • Explore strategies for modeling and implementing exciters, governors, and Power System Stabilizers (PSS).
  • Understand the principles of small-signal stability analysis and modal analysis.
  • Gain insights into voltage stability assessment using PSS/E.
  • Develop a practical understanding of simulating HVDC and FACTS device dynamics.
  • Learn to analyze the dynamic impact of renewable energy sources on the grid.
  • Master advanced contingency analysis for dynamic conditions.
  • Acquire skills in interpreting complex simulation results and generating reports.
  • Understand the application of user-defined models (UDM) for custom component behavior.
  • Explore optimal power flow (OPF) with dynamic constraints.
  • Develop proficiency in troubleshooting dynamic simulation issues.
  • Prepare to address cutting-edge power system stability challenges using PSS/E.

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Power System Dynamics and PSS/E Environment

  • Overview of power system stability concepts (angular, voltage, frequency).
  • Importance of dynamic simulation in modern grids.
  • Introduction to PSS/E software: interface, data files (RAW, DYR), program execution.
  • Basic PSS/E commands and navigation.
  • Setting up a new PSS/E project for dynamic studies.

Module 2: Load Flow Analysis as a Prerequisite for Dynamics

  • Review of load flow fundamentals and its role in dynamic initialization.
  • Performing load flow calculations in PSS/E.
  • Understanding load flow output: voltages, angles, power flows.
  • Identifying load flow issues (voltage violations, overloads).
  • Saving load flow cases for dynamic simulation.

Module 3: Synchronous Machine Dynamic Models

  • Detailed modeling of synchronous generators (subtransient, transient models).
  • Machine data input (reactances, time constants, inertia).
  • Understanding different types of synchronous machine models available in PSS/E.
  • Initializing synchronous machine models for dynamic simulation.
  • Impact of machine parameters on dynamic response.

Module 4: Excitation Systems (Exciters) Modeling

  • Purpose and types of excitation systems (AVR).
  • Standard IEEE exciter models in PSS/E (e.g., DC1A, AC1A, ST1A).
  • Parameterizing exciter models from manufacturer data.
  • Tuning exciter parameters for desired voltage response.
  • Impact of excitation system on voltage and rotor angle stability.

Module 5: Turbine-Governor Systems Modeling

  • Purpose and types of turbine-governor systems.
  • Standard IEEE governor models in PSS/E (e.g., GAST, HYGOV).
  • Parameterizing governor models and defining droop characteristics.
  • Impact of governor response on frequency control and load sharing.
  • Interaction between governor and exciter.

Module 6: Power System Stabilizers (PSS) Design and Tuning

  • Role of PSS in damping power system oscillations.
  • Principles of PSS operation and input signals.
  • Standard PSS models in PSS/E (e.g., PSS1A, PSS2A).
  • Design and tuning methodologies for PSS parameters.
  • Verifying PSS effectiveness through simulation.

Module 7: Load Modeling for Dynamic Studies

  • Static vs. dynamic load models.
  • Voltage and frequency dependency of loads.
  • Different load models available in PSS/E (e.g., constant P, Q; exponential; composite).
  • Impact of load modeling on dynamic simulation results.
  • Best practices for realistic load representation.

Module 8: Transient Stability Analysis (Advanced)

  • Setting up and executing transient stability simulations.
  • Simulating various disturbances: faults, line trips, generator trips, load rejections.
  • Analyzing generator rotor angle, voltage, frequency, and power output curves.
  • Identifying unstable conditions and critical clearing times.
  • Interpreting contingency analysis results.

Module 9: Small-Signal Stability Analysis (Modal Analysis)

  • Introduction to small-signal stability concepts and inter-area oscillations.
  • Performing Eigenvalue analysis in PSS/E.
  • Identifying modes of oscillation, damping, and frequency.
  • Locating oscillating generators and areas.
  • Remedial actions for poorly damped oscillations.

Module 10: Voltage Stability Analysis (P-V and Q-V Curves)

  • Understanding voltage collapse phenomena and nose curves.
  • Performing P-V (Power-Voltage) and Q-V (Reactive Power-Voltage) analysis in PSS/E.
  • Continuation Power Flow (CPF) for determining voltage stability limits.
  • Identifying critical buses and voltage control devices.
  • Strategies for voltage stability enhancement.

Module 11: HVDC and FACTS Device Dynamic Modeling

  • Introduction to HVDC (High Voltage Direct Current) systems and their types.
  • Modeling LCC-HVDC and VSC-HVDC in PSS/E.
  • Understanding FACTS (Flexible AC Transmission Systems) devices (STATCOM, SVC, TCSC).
  • Simulating the dynamic response of HVDC and FACTS during disturbances.
  • Impact on system stability and control.

Module 12: Dynamic Modeling of Renewable Energy Sources

  • Modeling wind turbine generators (DFIG, full converter).
  • Modeling solar PV inverter-based generation.
  • Grid code compliance for renewable energy systems.
  • Simulating the dynamic response of renewables to grid disturbances.
  • Impact of high renewable penetration on system inertia and stability.

Module 13: User-Defined Models (UDM) and Scripting

  • Introduction to PSS/E user-defined models for custom component behavior.
  • Using Python scripting within PSS/E for automation and advanced analysis.
  • Automating load flow, dynamic simulation, and result processing.
  • Creating custom reports and visualizations using scripting.
  • Debugging and validating UDM and scripts.

Module 14: Data Analysis and Post-Processing of Dynamic Results

  • Utilizing PSS/E's plotting tools for dynamic simulation results.
  • Exporting dynamic data for external analysis (e.g., MATLAB, Python).
  • Analyzing large dynamic simulation output files.
  • Generating customized reports and summary tables.
  • Best practices for documenting and presenting dynamic study results.

Module 15: Advanced Dynamic Studies and Case Studies

  • Simulating widespread blackouts and restoration scenarios.
  • Analyzing dynamic interactions between different control systems.
  • Optimal power flow with dynamic security constraints.
  • Real-world case studies of power system stability events.
  • Challenges and future trends in power system dynamic analysis.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.

Course Schedule
Dates Fees Location Apply
04/08/2025 - 15/08/2025 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
11/08/2025 - 22/08/2025 $3500 Mombasa, Kenya
18/08/2025 - 29/08/2025 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
01/09/2025 - 12/09/2025 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
08/09/2025 - 19/09/2025 $4500 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
15/09/2025 - 26/09/2025 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
06/10/2025 - 17/10/2025 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
13/10/2025 - 24/10/2025 $4500 Kigali, Rwanda
20/10/2025 - 31/10/2025 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
03/11/2025 - 14/11/2025 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
10/11/2025 - 21/11/2025 $3500 Mombasa, Kenya
17/11/2025 - 28/11/2025 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
01/12/2025 - 12/12/2025 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
08/12/2025 - 19/12/2025 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
05/01/2026 - 16/01/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
12/01/2026 - 23/01/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
19/01/2026 - 30/01/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
02/02/2026 - 13/02/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
09/02/2026 - 20/02/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
16/02/2026 - 27/02/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
02/03/2026 - 13/03/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
09/03/2026 - 20/03/2026 $4500 Kigali, Rwanda
16/03/2026 - 27/03/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
06/04/2026 - 17/04/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
13/04/2026 - 24/04/2026 $3500 Mombasa, Kenya
13/04/2026 - 24/04/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
04/05/2026 - 15/05/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya
11/05/2026 - 22/05/2026 $5500 Dubai, UAE
18/05/2026 - 29/05/2026 $3500 Nairobi, Kenya