Introduction

In the rapidly evolving landscape of modern electrical grids, where complexity is amplified by the integration of renewables, distributed energy resources, and smart technologies, Real-Time Simulation for Power Systems has become an indispensable tool. Unlike traditional offline simulations, real-time simulation replicates the dynamic behavior of an electrical network at the same speed as actual "wall clock" time, allowing engineers to test and analyze system responses to various conditions – from subtle disturbances to major faults – without risking disruption to the live grid. This capability is paramount for validating advanced control strategies, de-risking new equipment deployment, and providing a safe, realistic environment for operator training. Without access to and proficiency in Real-Time Simulation for Power Systems, utilities and researchers face significant limitations in understanding grid complexities, developing robust solutions, and ensuring the reliability and resilience of critical energy infrastructure. This comprehensive training course focuses on equipping professionals with the expertise to master Real-Time Simulation for Power Systems.

This intensive 10-day training course is meticulously designed to empower electrical engineers, power system researchers, control system designers, protection engineers, and grid operators with the theoretical understanding and hands-on practical tools necessary to utilize real-time simulation platforms effectively. Participants will gain a deep understanding of the principles of real-time digital simulation, explore various hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing methodologies, learn about modeling power system components for real-time environments, and acquire skills in conducting comprehensive dynamic studies, testing protection and control devices, and simulating complex scenarios like microgrid operations and HVDC systems. The course will delve into topics such as electromagnetic transient (EMT) simulation, power hardware-in-the-loop (PHIL), co-simulation, real-time dispatch, and the application of real-time simulation for cybersecurity analysis and operator training. By mastering the principles and practical application of Real-Time Simulation for Power Systems, participants will be prepared to accelerate innovation, enhance system stability, and contribute significantly to the secure and efficient operation of future power grids.

Duration: 10 Days

Target Audience

• Power System Engineers
• Control System Engineers
• Protection Engineers
• Power System Researchers
• Utility System Operators
• Equipment Manufacturers (e.g., inverters, control devices)
• Graduate Students in Electrical Engineering
• Developers of Grid Control and Automation Systems
• Test Engineers for Power Electronics
• Cybersecurity Analysts in the Energy Sector

Objectives

• Understand the fundamental concepts of real-time simulation and its distinction from offline simulation.
• Learn about the architecture and capabilities of Real-Time Digital Simulators (RTDS).
• Acquire skills in modeling power system components for real-time environments.
• Comprehend techniques for conducting Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testing of controllers and protection devices.
• Explore strategies for simulating electromagnetic transients (EMT) in real-time.
• Understand the importance of Power Hardware-in-the-Loop (PHIL) applications.
• Gain insights into real-time simulation for renewable energy integration and microgrids.
• Develop a practical understanding of operator training simulators (OTS).
• Learn about cybersecurity testing and validation using real-time simulation.
• Master co-simulation techniques for multi-domain analysis.
• Acquire skills in analyzing power system dynamics under various scenarios.
• Understand the role of real-time simulation in research and development.
• Explore advanced control strategies validation in real-time.
• Develop proficiency in interpreting real-time simulation results for system improvements.
• Prepare to design, test, and validate complex power system solutions in a safe environment.

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Real-Time Simulation

• Definition of real-time simulation and its necessity in modern power systems.
• Comparison with offline (EMT and phasor) simulations.
• Key characteristics of real-time simulators: fixed time step, hardware in the loop capability.
• Historical evolution of real-time simulation technology.
• Overview of commercial real-time simulators (e.g., RTDS, OPAL-RT, Typhoon HIL).

Module 2: Real-Time Digital Simulators (RTDS) Architecture

• Hardware architecture of RTDS platforms: processors, I/O modules.
• Software environment and graphical user interfaces (GUIs).
• Parallel processing and distributed simulation techniques.
• Understanding simulation time step and its impact on model fidelity.
• Data acquisition and signal generation capabilities.

Module 3: Modeling Power System Components for Real-Time Simulation

• Detailed modeling of transmission lines and cables (frequency-dependent models).
• Real-time modeling of transformers and tap changers.
• Synchronous and asynchronous machine modeling for dynamic studies.
• Representation of loads: static and dynamic load models.
• Power electronics converters (e.g., inverters, rectifiers, FACTS devices) modeling.

Module 4: Electromagnetic Transient (EMT) Simulation in Real-Time

• Principles of EMT simulation: solving differential equations in real-time.
• Importance of high-fidelity EMT models for power electronics and protection studies.
• Techniques for numerical stability and accuracy in real-time EMT.
• Handling non-linear components and switching events.
• Case studies of EMT simulation in real-time.

Module 5: Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) Testing - Principles and Applications

• Concept of HIL: connecting physical control/protection devices to a simulated grid.
• Types of HIL: Controller HIL (CHIL) and Power HIL (PHIL).
• Advantages of HIL testing: de-risking, accelerated development, comprehensive validation.
• Challenges and considerations for setting up HIL tests.
• Practical examples of CHIL testing for relay validation.

Module 6: Power Hardware-in-the-Loop (PHIL) Simulation

• Principles of PHIL: interfacing a physical power device with a simulated grid.
• Role of power amplifiers and interface algorithms in PHIL.
• Applications of PHIL: testing grid-connected inverters, microgrid components, energy storage.
• Challenges in PHIL: stability, power scaling, safety.
• Design and setup considerations for PHIL experiments.

Module 7: Real-Time Simulation for Protection System Validation

• Testing of protective relays (overcurrent, distance, differential) in a simulated environment.
• Injecting realistic fault conditions and monitoring relay response.
• Verification of relay settings and coordination schemes.
• Assessing protection system performance under various grid disturbances.
• Debugging and fine-tuning protection logic using real-time simulation.

Module 8: Real-Time Simulation for Control System Design and Testing

• Rapid prototyping and validation of new control algorithms.
• Testing of automatic generation control (AGC), voltage regulators, and excitation systems.
• Developing and tuning STATCOM, SVC, and HVDC control systems.
• Simulating the interaction between control systems and grid dynamics.
• Operator training for complex control scenarios.

Module 9: Renewable Energy Integration and Microgrids in Real-Time

• Simulating the dynamic behavior of wind farms and solar PV plants.
• Testing grid-forming and grid-following inverters in real-time.
• Microgrid control and protection strategies in islanded and grid-connected modes.
• Assessing the impact of high renewable penetration on grid stability.
• Real-time simulation for smart grid applications.

Module 10: HVDC and FACTS Systems Real-Time Simulation

• Detailed modeling and simulation of HVDC transmission systems (LCC, VSC-HVDC).
• Real-time simulation of Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS) devices.
• Understanding transient behavior and control interactions.
• Testing control algorithms for HVDC and FACTS in various operating conditions.
• Addressing stability issues in multi-infeed HVDC systems.

Module 11: Real-Time Simulation for Cybersecurity Testing

• Simulating cyberattacks on critical infrastructure components (e.g., IEDs, RTUs).
• Testing the resilience of control and protection systems against cyber threats.
• Developing and validating intrusion detection systems (IDS).
• Simulating cascading failures initiated by cyber incidents.
• Building secure by design principles through real-time testing.

Module 12: Co-Simulation and Hybrid Simulation Techniques

• Principles of co-simulation: coupling different simulation tools.
• Integrating real-time EMT simulation with phasor-domain tools.
• Applications of co-simulation for large, complex systems.
• Combining hardware-in-the-loop with software-in-the-loop.
• Challenges and synchronization in co-simulation environments.

Module 13: Operator Training Simulators (OTS)

• Design and development of realistic OTS for power system operators.
• Simulating normal, abnormal, and emergency operating conditions.
• Training operators to respond to faults, blackouts, and restoration procedures.
• Creating customizable scenarios and performance evaluation.
• The role of OTS in enhancing grid reliability and human factors.

Module 14: Data Analysis and Visualization of Real-Time Results

• Tools and techniques for capturing and storing real-time simulation data.
• Post-processing and analysis of vast amounts of simulation data.
• Visualization methods for dynamic system behavior (e.g., plots, animations).
• Interpreting results for design validation and troubleshooting.
• Generating reports and presenting simulation findings.

Module 15: Future Trends and Research in Real-Time Simulation

• Advancements in real-time computing hardware and software.
• Integration of AI and machine learning with real-time simulation.
• Cloud-based real-time simulation and distributed simulation.
• Hybrid real-time/offline simulation for system-wide analysis.
• Expanding applications in smart cities, electric transportation, and grid modernization.

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.