How ETAP can be utilized for predictive analysis in power distribution systems with the presence of distributed generation

Power grids utilize state estimation to forecast the behavior of the power system in response to disturbances and events that may occur during operation. Incorporating non-conventional renewable energy sources into the distribution network poses a severe challenge. The ETAP Real-Time state estimation model predicts the system behavior in response to various grid events.
By Wilian Guaman, University of Cotopaxi

Incorporating distributed generation into the distribution system generates problems due to the variability of renewable energy sources, as well as the time, location, type, and severity of faults that may occur, among other factors. Therefore, system operators must be able to monitor, estimate, and forecast the network's state. In this case study, engineers conduct a real-time simulation of a distributed generation (DG) system using ETAP Real-Time software. This software enables the prediction of the system's behavior under various events based on real-time data.

The Smart Grid Laboratory of the Universidad Técnica de Cotopaxi (UTC), Ecuador, integrates distributed generation (DG) modules - including hydro, synchronous generation, PV, and power-quality compensation - into a controlled microgrid environment. To improve reliability and train operators, the university sought a tool capable of real-time monitoring, control, predictive analysis, and simulation of grid events.

ETAP Real-Time and ETAP Power Lab were donated to UTC to support education, research, and development activities in power system engineering.

Location: Technical University of Cotopaxi, Latacunga, Peru

Year: 2023

Predictive analysis of the distributed generation in the laboratory

Challenges

  • Building and validating a physical model of the distributed generation system based on Lucas-Nueh laboratory modules.
  • Establishing real-time communication and monitoring of DG modules using ETAP Real-Time and SCADA functions.
  • Simulating the local distribution network (Ambato, Mulaló, and Quevedo feeders) and integrating the GDLN distributed generator.
  • Performing state estimation to analyze the impact of disturbances, faults, load variations, and DG injections.
  • Evaluating DG inclusion at different substations to understand voltage, angle, and protection behaviors.

Which solutions did they choose for research?

Selected applications

  • ETAP Real-Time (RT) for monitoring, control, and state estimation
  • SCADA Integrator Module for communication with Lucas-Nueh DG equipment
  • Modbus Protocol for monitoring Siemens PAC4200 meters
  • OPC UA for control through digital I/O
  • What-If Simulation for real-time predictive analysis and grid-event studies
These tools enabled UTC to achieve a complete digital–physical integration of their laboratory microgrid.

Why do they use ETAP?

Main customer benefits

1. Real-time monitoring and control of DG in a physical laboratory

Engineers obtain immediate access to measurements, status indicators, and operational conditions of each Lucas-Nueh module.

2. Predictive analysis through ETAP Real-Time state estimation

The model forecasts how voltage, current, angle, and loading levels evolve under faults, contingencies, and load variations.

3. Detailed simulation and replication of real grid scenarios

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

Using ANSI extremely inverse curves, ETAP demonstrates proper breaker operation: CB3 trips first during a 3-phase fault at Bus 5, followed by backup CB1.

5. Identification of the optimal DG injection location

Based on acceptable voltage and angle deviations, Lasso Substation is the most practical point of DG inclusion.

6. Foundation for future research

The project establishes a basis for advanced studies in automatic generation control, economic dispatch, load forecasting, and DG optimization.

What do they think about ETAP?

Customer perspectives

The excellent experience we’ve had with ETAP Real-Time gives the engineers a leading and predictive action in the case of any contingency.
By William Gamarra, Universidad Técnica de Cotopaxi

Once the distributed generation GDLN is in operation and the simulation of the local distribution system is completed, ETAP’s state estimator identifies the most practical substation where the DG can be included.
By Cristóbal Fernández López, Universidad Técnica de 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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