Distributed Optimal Power Flow (D-OPF)
Distributed OPF tool for AC, DC and AC/DC systems
This distributed OPF tool, available as open source, addresses the OPF problem for AC, DC, and AC/DC systems. Additionally, an example scenario of a modified OPF problem is provided, where distributed energy resources (DER), in particular flexible loads, are integrated in the AC system and participate in the power dispatch. In this example scenario, specific power exchange with the external grid is also modelled.
RWTH Achen University - Institute for Automation of Complex Power Systems
Contact Asimenia Korompili
Interview with:
Asimenia Korompili, Research Associate the Institute for Automation of Complex Power Systems
RWTH Aachen University
Interviewer: Asimenia Korompili, the Optimal Power Flow (OPF) is one of the key results of the Platone project whose development was coordinated by Platone consortium partner RWTH Aachen University. Let´s assume I am a researcher at a research center at a University. I mostly work on control solutions for converter-dominated power systems. We often face challenges of applying commercial optimal power flow (OPF) tools since these refer only to the centralised OPF problem in AC systems with fuel-based power generation. Therefore, we cannot apply them to other kind of systems (DC, AC/DC), where converter-interfaced distributed energy resources (DER) participate actively in the system regulation according to their operating status. Also, we cannot simulate scenarios of specific desired system operation, e.g. power flows or injections forced to have certain values. The development of OPF algorithms for such cases requires time and human resources, which are not available to us. Therefore, we are looking for ready-to-use solutions.
Asimenia Korompili: We have just the right solution for this challenge! Our open-source and license free distributed OPF tool might just be what you’re looking for. It solves the OPF problem for AC, DC and AC/DC systems. In addition, an example version of the tool for the modified OPF problem is provided, where DER (e.g. flexible loads) are involved in the power dispatch and the operation scenario for specific power exchange with the external grid is modelled. You can easily fork our solution via GIT and customize the code to your system models and desired operation scenarios.
Interviewer: What about support? Are you or somebody at your organization available to grant help if needed? How can I get in touch with you?
Asimenia Korompili: As a university we do not provide support services. However, we are active in the open-source community of LFE SOGNO, where our tool is going to be integrated in a platform with micro-services for system operators. In this community we get in contact with peers that use our tools to exchange ideas for customization or further developments.
Interviewer: Are there any training materials I can use to help with internal distribution?
Asimenia Korompili: Until now, we don’t have extensive tutorials or manuals. We offer on GIT the functional description of the OPF tool, the description of the code structure and literature with similar modifications of the OPF problem. We could offer you further explanations upon arrangement, depending on our availability.
Interviewer: So to summarize: I can get in contact in the community of LFE SOGNO to discuss possible cooperation. I could sign a bilateral contract for collaboration on the implementation of the tool in our digital control platforms and for our system cases. This will ensure further development of the tool internally as well as better understanding of such processes in general within our organization.
Thanks for the interview!