Power electronics spark new simulation challenges

ISSN 0895-0156/02/$17.00©2002 IEEE T he computer simulation of power systems has presented many challenges and opportunities over the years. Fortunately, the general nature of power systems remained relatively the same for a long period of time. This allowed power system engineers to improve modeling techniques progressively and to apply computer hardware and software technology to design study tools that met the analysis requirements. The models were based on fundamental frequency responses. However, with the wide-spread use of microprocessor-based controls and the associated advances in power electronic devices over the past 10 years, the nature of modern power systems has significantly changed. This article discusses some of the changes that have taken place in power systems and explores some of the inherent requirements for simulation technologies in order to keep up with this rapidly changing environment. Industrial examples of how power system simulation has been applied by end-users to meet the advancing requirements is provided.