How UTC uses ETAP for predictive analysis of power distribution systems with distributed generation

ETAP Real-Time gives network operators the insights into predictive actions for load shedding and other actions in the case of any contingency.
Wilian Guamán, Technical University of Cotopaxi

When distributed generation (DG) sources are added into a live network, conditions shift in seconds. To better prepare Operators for entry into the workforce, the Technical University of Cotopaxi (UTC) introduced a hands-on environment for their engineering students using ETAP, to evaluate the best methods to respond.

The Smart Grid Laboratory of the Technical University of Cotopaxi (UTC) in Latacunga, Ecuador offers engineering students the chance to study power systems using real world scenarios, including the analysis of introduction of distributed generation (DG) sources such as hydro, synchronous generation, and PV arrays. The University offers an ETAP Power Lab in its engineering curriculum for hands on experience in real-time monitoring, control, predictive analysis, and grid operations technology.

Location: Technical University of Cotopaxi, Latacunga, Ecuador

Year: 2023

Learning environment for predictive analysis using a real-world simulation

Challenges

  • Provide a realistic method to design and validate physical models before and after the integration of distributed generation
  • Implement communications between equipment and real-time SCADA systems
  • Perform state estimation to analyze the impact of disturbances, faults, load variations, and DG injections
  • Evaluate DG inclusion at different substations to understand voltage, angle, and protection behaviors

Which solutions did they choose for research?

Selected applications

  • ETAP Digital Twin for power system 'What-If' simulation for real-time predictive analysis and grid-event studies
  • STAR Protection and Coordination, to design and verify how electrical safety devices like circuit breakers, relays, and fuses interact during faults
  • ETAP SCADA Data Acquisition and Monitoring for communication with the physical lab equipment devices
  • Modbus Protocol for monitoring Siemens PAC4200 and other metering devices
  • OPC UA for control through digital I/O
  • ETAP Real-Time (RT) for monitoring, control, and state estimation
These tools enabled UTC to achieve a complete digital-to–physical integration of their laboratory microgrid.

Why do they use ETAP?

Main customer benefits

1. Real-time monitoring and control of renewable integration studies within a physical laboratory environment.

Engineers obtain immediate access to measurements, status indicators, and operational conditions.

2. Predictive analysis through ETAP Real-Time state estimation

Engineers learn how to react to forecasts of evolving voltage, current, angle, and loading levels under faults, contingencies, and load variations.

3. Detailed simulation and replication of practical grid scenarios

A variety of scenarios can be studied. In this case, four representative scenarios were studied:
  • MV contingency: GEN1 overloaded to 148.20%, delivering 23.40 kW and –6.97 kVAr; PV (21.32%) and wind (35.38%) compensate demand
  • Transmission line single-phase fault: Relay operates correctly when current rises to 35.48%, tripping CB1
  • Industrial demand increase: Additional 5 kW load produces a 22.73% demand rise
  • DG inclusion at substations: Voltage variations between 0.001% – 0.28% and angle variations 0.58° – 1.53° depending on the substation

4. Verification of protection coordination

Engineers where able to demonstrates proper breaker operation.

5. Identification of the optimal DG injection location

Based on acceptable voltage and angle deviations, a substation was identified as the most practical point of DG inclusion.

6. Foundation for future research

This study established a basis for advanced studies in automatic generation control, economic dispatch, load forecasting, and DG optimization.

What do they think about ETAP?

Customer perspectives

Once the distributed generation GDLN is in operation and the simulation of the local distribution system is completed, ETAP State Estimator identifies the most practical substation where the DG can be included.
Gonzalo López, Professor, Technical University of Cotopaxi

We are grateful for the support from ETAP and Silvatech, an ETAP Authorized Representative, for the development of our ETAP Power Lab.
Wilian Guamán, Professor, Technical University of Cotopaxi



Videos

Predictive Analysis in Electric Distribution Systems with presence of Distributed Generation

Incorporating Distributed Generation (DG) into distribution systems poses challenges due to the variability of renewable sources and fault occurrences, necessitating real-time monitoring and forecasting. Using ETAP-RT software, this study simulates a DG system's real-time behavior, including four events like grid contingencies and DG integration, offering insights for network planning and operation.


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