• Extensions to the Drawing and Diagram Layout Tools to allow easy creation and representation of complex elements such as towers, cable systems or controllers, as well as network groupings
• Introduction of user-defined Hotkeys and a customisable Quick Access menu

With the new features in PowerFactory 2024, we continue the process of enhancement and development which ensures that PowerFactory remains the ideal tool for a wide range of network planning and operational studies, from small micro-grids to large transmission and distribution networks, including HVDC and renewable technologies.

The Contingency Analysis tool in DIgSILENT PowerFactory has been designed to offer a high degree of flexibility in configuration, calculation methods and reporting options. Single- and multiple- time-phase contingency analyses are available, both of which offer automatic or user-defined contingency creation based on events, and the consideration of controller time constants and thermal (short-term) ratings.

• AC, DC and AC linearised analysis methods, including regional assessment
• Outage levels: n-1, n-2, n-k
• Fast contingency screening with recalculation of critical cases using AC method
• Single and multiple time phase consideration
• Dynamic contingencies option for creating fault cases “on the fly”
• Remedial Action Schemes for flexible and dynamic analysis of post-fault actions
• Substation automation via switching schemes
• User-configured time-sweep analysis with parallelisation option
• Generator effectiveness and quad booster effectiveness
• Enhanced Fault Case management
• Comprehensive spreadsheet reporting features, including graphical ­visualisation of critical cases
• Tracing of individual contingency cases
• Contingency comparison mode
• Parallelised Contingency Analysis using multiple cores

Power Factory offers Quasi Dynamic Simulation  for the execution of medium to long term simulations. Multiple load flow calculations are carried out with user-defined time step sizes. The tool is particularly suitable for planning studies in which long term load and generation profiles are defined, and network development is modelled using variations and expansion stages.

• Medium- to long-term simulations based on steady-state analysis
• Time and Time-Profile characteristics for simplified modelling of (recurrent) time series
• Consideration of planned outages, network Variations & Expansion Stages
• Flexible definition of simulation time range with arbtirary resolutions
• Simulation plots and tabular reports including statistical analysis
• QDSL-language for user-definable models (load flow and quasi-dynamic equations)
• QDSL model encryption funcionality¹
• Parallelised simulation using multiple cores
• Use of neural networks for fast approximation of results²

¹Requires DPL/DSL/QDSL Encryption Function licence. DIgSILENT does not give any express warranties or guarantees for cryptographic security of encrypted models. In particular, DIgSILENT does not guarantee that the details and functionalities of an encrypted model are secure against all means of access or attack attempts.
²Requires Artificial Intelligence licence

The Network Reduction Tool enables the analysis of networks where the effect of adjacent networks needs to be considered but are not required to be modelled in detail. Adjacent networks are reduced according to a user-specified boundary, with the tool creating the required equivalent elements for subsequent load flow and short circuit calculations.

• Flexible definition of boundaries with Boundary Definition Tool
• Calculation of (AC or DC) load flow and short-circuit equivalent
• Support of load, Ward, extended Ward and REI-DIMO equivalents
• Regional equivalent method for flexible reduction of neighbouring systems
• Network Reduction for Dynamic Equivalent, to support ­balanced RMS simulations¹
• Numerous options for aggregation of non-linear elements
• Capturing of reduction via Variation for convenient toggling between original and equivalent grid

¹Requires RMS Function licence

A comprehensive relay library based on manufacturer-specific protection devices is available and can be used in steady-state and for dynamic simulation. The protection device models are highly detailed and completely aligned with StationWare, allowing settings exchange with real protection devices. A range of protection concepts is supported, including time-overcurrent, distance, differential, directional, over-voltage and under-voltage, over-frequency and under-frequency, out of step protection and power swing blocking. Various graphical representation of protection device characteristics are available such as Overcurrent-time diagram with drag and drop functionality, R-X  and P-Q diagrams, and diagrams for differential protection. Validation of selected settings can be done graphically via Time distance diagrams or with Overcurrent-time diagrams, or automatically via protection audit tools. Selected settings can be reported in tables and exported for further investigation.

• Comprehensive relay library with relay models suitable for steady-state, RMS and EMT¹ calculations
• Synchronisation with DIgSILENT StationWare
• Highly-detailed spreadsheet reports for protection settings (overcurrent, distance, voltage, frequency protection)
• Graphical visualisation and editing of fuses, relays, CTs and VTs including auto layout functionality
• Protection Audit
  • Validation tool for protection settings and configurations
  • User-configurable fault types assessment
  • Automatic determination of protection topology
  • Automatic short-circuit calculation
  • Multiple predefined reports with auto-identification of critical protection settings (device coordination, device tripping times, fault clearing times)
  • Short-Circuit Trace functionality for steady-state simulation of fault clearance and relay responses

¹Requires Stability Analysis Functions (RMS) or Electromagnetic Transients (EMT) licence

• Overcurrent-time diagram with drag & drop functionality including auto-generated graphical legend
• Cable and transformer damage curves
• Motor starting curves
• Automatic display of measured currents
• Steady-state response checks
• Steady-state short-circuit simulation with tracing of individual steps
• Steady-state tripping times for transient or sub-transient current/voltage values
• Transient response checks (requires Stability Analysis functions (RMS) or Electromagnetic Transients functions (EMT))¹
• Protection Graphic Assistant
  • Customisable short-circuit sweep diagrams including visualisation of protection settings
• Protection Coordination Assistant
  • Automatic calculation of overcurrent protection settings
  • Support of various coordination methods and setting rules, including user-defined rules
• Protection model features
  • Fuses and low-voltage circuit breakers
  • Positive-, negative-, zero-sequence inverse and definite time characteristics
  • Thermal overload characteristics
  • Directional elements supporting cross-, self- and memory polarising, Wattmetric method
  • Differential unit with harmonic blocking for multiple harmonic orders
  • Generic and detailed manufacturer-specific recloser units
  • Signal transmission between relays, inter-tripping, interblocking schemes
  • Detailed CT, VT, combined CT/VT , and CVT models including ­ saturation
  • Over-, under-voltage inverse and definite time characteristics
  • Programmable logic unit
  • Over-, under-frequency and df/dt inverse and definite time characteristics²

¹Requires Stability Analysis Functions (RMS) or Electromagnetic Transients (EMT) licence

²Requires Stability Analysis Functions (RMS) licence

• Requires Time-Overcurrent Protection
• P-Q diagrams and R-X diagrams with support of the display of measured impedance trace
• Time-distance diagrams, with metric or calculated display of zone reach in forward and reverse direction
• Protection Graphic Assistant
  • Reach of protection zones colourings in diagrams
• Protection Coordination Assistant
  • Automatic calculation of protection settings
  • Support of various coordination methods and setting rules, including user-defined rules
• Protection model features
  • Generic and detailed manufacturer-specific Mho, polygonal distance zones and distance starting units
  • Out of step detection and power swing blocking unit¹

¹Requires Stability Analysis Functions (RMS) or Electromagnetic Transients (EMT) licence

The Arc-Flash Analysis tool supports various international recognised standards and recommendations for Arc-Flash Hazard calculations. All calculation results can be represented graphically or in tables and Arc-Flash labels can be generated. Different ways of specifying the fault clearing time are offered; if the Protection Functions licence is available, the Arc-Flash Analysis can be configured to take into account protection devices and their fault clearing times.

• Arc-Flash calculation for AC systems in accordance with IEEE 1584-2002 and -2018, NFPA 70E-2021 and DGUV 203-077 and EPRI
• Arc-Flash calculation for DC systems in accordance with NFPA 70E-2021 and DGUV 203-077
• Incident Energy, Flash-Protection Boundary and PPE Category on the single line diagram
• Automated preparation of Arc-Flash labels
• Automatic protection-based fault clearing time determination¹
• Calculation of arcing-current energy

¹Requires Protection Functions licence

The PowerFactory Cable Analysis tool contains two packages: Cable Sizing and Cable Ampacity Calculation.
The Cable Sizing package can be used either to verify the suitability of the assigned line types or to obtain recommendations for new line types according to a selected International Standard or according to user-defined voltage, thermal, and short-circuit constraints.
The Cable Ampacity Calculation assists in the determination of the maximum allowed current of a cable by taking different factors into account such as conductor temperature, the local environment  and other cables nearby.

• Automatic cable sizing based on IEC 60364-5-52, BS 7671, NF C15-100, NF C 13-200, VDE 0298-4 and VDE 0276-100
• Support of standard Load Flow, LV Load Flow and User-defined Current options
• Cable sizing optimisation priority
  • Cable cross-section
  • Parallel cables
  • Cost
• Downsizing of cables
• Consideration of thermal loading constraints for lines
• Consideration of terminal voltage limits and limits on voltage change along feeders and/or cables
• Consideration of short-circuit constraints
• Balanced (positive sequence) or unbalanced calculation with support of all phase technologies (1-, 2- and 3-phase systems, with or without neutral conductor)
• System phase technology and cable type consistency checks in the feeder
• Various verification reports and automatic modification of cable types in the existing network via Network Variations

• Cable Ampacity calculation based on IEC 60287 or Neher-McGrath method
• Evaluation of maximum allowable current for cables based on cable material, laying arrangement and environmental data including presence of external heat sources
• Convenient cable layout modelling capabilities, supporting all laying arrangements of single and multi-core cables
• Detailed reports and automatic modification of cable derating factors in the existing network via Network Variations

With the Harmonic Load Flow Calculation and the Frequency Sweep Calculation, the user is able to analyse the modelled network in the frequency domain. The frequency-dependent network impedance offers valuable clues about possible resonances in the network and the effectiveness of countermeasures. The harmonic load flow combines the network impedance with harmonic sources, resulting in the level of the harmonic distortion for each location in the network.

• Harmonic voltage and current indices (IEC 61000-3-6, BDEW 2008)
• Balanced (positive sequence) and unbalanced (multiphase) model
• Option to consider n-1 / n-k contingencies¹
• Unbalanced harmonic sources
• Non-characteristic and inter-harmonics
• Multiple harmonic injections: current and voltage sources, thyristor rectifiers, PWM-converters, SVS, non-linear loads, Norton-equivalents
• Background distortion frequency-dependent R and L values
• Various harmonic distortion indices such as THD, HD, HF, THF, TAD, TIFmx, total RMS currents and voltages, loadings and losses (defined according to IEEE and DIN/IEC standards)
• Harmonic distortion plot with pre-defined distortion limits according to international standards
• Waveform plots
• Calculation of K-Factors and Loss Factors for 2-winding transformers (UL1562, EN 50464-3 (replaces BS7821), EN 50541-2, IEEE C.57.110-1998)

• Flicker Assessment (IEC 61400-21):
  • Short- and long-term flicker disturbance factor for continuous and switching operations
  • Relative voltage changes
• Flickermeter (IEC 61000-4-15):
  • EMT or RMS signals
  • Support of multiple file formats as COMTRADE, CSV, user-defined, etc.

• Automatic step size adaption or constant step size
• Balanced (positive sequence) and unbalanced network model
• Option to consider n-1 / n-k contingencies¹
• Self and mutual impedances/admittances (phase and sequence components)
• Automatic identification of resonances
• Frequency-dependent R and L values and line/cable models
• Spectral density of voltage amplitude/angle
• Risk assessment of sub-synchronous oscillations using radiality factors

• Various filter models
• Design and layout parameters
• Filter sizing and verification reports
• Ripple control analysis

¹ Requires Contingency Analysis licence

This suite of tools aimed at transmission network operators and planners includes options for analysing the voltage stability and power transfer capabilities of the network.

• Voltage stability assessment by determination of critical point of voltage instability
• Support contingency analysis, i.e. detection of “limiting contingency”¹

• Voltage stability limit assessment by evaluating the bus voltage change w.r.t. variation of injected reactive power
• Evaluating of stable operating points for various system loading scenarios, including contingencies¹
• Determination of reactive power compensation by superposition of capacitor characteristics in QV plots

• Analysis of the impact of a power exchange between two regions
• Various load and generation scaling options

• Determination of maximum power transfer capacity between two regions
• Various load and generation scaling options for exporting and importing region
• Thermal, voltage and contingency constraints options

• Calculation of loop flows, transit flows and import/export power flows
• Identification of HVDC- and phase-shifting transformer induced cycle flows

¹ Requires Contingency Analysis licence

The Distribution Network Tools functions can be used to analyse and improve the key aspects of a distribution network. The range of tools begins with the determination of the optimal tie open point according to the minimisation of losses or reliability indices, whilst observing network constraints. It continues with the optimisation of the voltage profile, with the objective to be prepared for a growing number of distributed energy resources or a growing number of loads within the LV network through estimation of the optimal tap position of the distribution transformers. For unbalanced network conditions, the phase balance optimisation helps to find an optimal balance for the load and generation units between the three phases.

The package also includes a tool for optimising capacitor placement and a hosting capacity tool for evaluating the maximum distributed energy resources and/or spare load capacity of the network.

• Load flow calculation which takes into account the stochastic consumption behaviour of loads
• Use of coincidence curves linked to LV loads
• Optional scaling and coupling

• Evaluation of the maximum distributed energy resources (DER) and/or spare load capacity of a network
• Consideration of thermal, voltage, protection¹ and power quality limits²
• Graphical visualisation of maximum, minimum and average capacity of the system
• Tabular reports of the maximum capacities and limiting components for feeders and terminals
• Parallel computing using multiple processor cores

¹Requires Protection Function licence
²Requires Power Quality and Harmonics Analysis licence

• Optimisation of tie open point positions subject to loss minimisation, ­improvement of system reliability, or minimisation of switching actions
• Support of balanced/unbalanced systems
• Simultaneous optimisation of single or multiple scenarios and time periods
• Branch and boundary flow limits, absolute voltage, and voltage drop/rise constraints
• Enhanced reporting features and graphical visualisation, including ­automatic identification of tie open points
• Various methodologies, such as mesh exploration heuristic, ­genetic algorithms, and simulated annealing

• Verification and optimisation mode
• Voltage profile optimisation for bi-directional power flows in systems with a high level of distributed generation
• Determination of optimal distribution transformer tap positions for production and consumption cases (simultaneous or independent)
• Combined consideration of MV and LV feeder voltage profiles with enhanced plotting features

• Automatic reconnection of loads, generators, and/or branch elements in order to achieve minimal power imbalance
• Minimisation of unbalance at feeding point or average imbalance in feeder
• High flexibility to also allow for partial reconfiguration
• Capturing of results via Variations for convenient toggling of original and optimised phase connections
• Various methodologies, such as standard heuristics, genetic algorithms, and simulated annealing

• Determination of optimal locations and sizes of new storage units and voltage regulators
• Economic assessment to minimise the overall costs including costs for installation, operation and maintenance
• Optimisation of existing storage units, voltage regulators and transformers
• User-definable time periods and resolutions
• Consideration of thermal and voltage limits, as well as equipment-specific constraints
• Automated generation of optimal time characteristics for power dispatch of storage units and tap positions of voltage regulators
• Numerous reporting facilities and result visualisations
• For standard size optimisation problems: ships with built-in solver
• For solving large-scale problems: integrated interface to external solvers such as CPLEX and GUROBI¹

¹CPLEX and GUROBI licences to be purchased separately

• Determination of optimal locations, types, phase technology and sizes of capacitors
• Economic assessment considering costs of losses against installation costs under predefined voltage constraints
• Support of load variation via characteristics

The Economic Analysis Tools package provides a means of combining conventional network analyses with economic considerations, to assess the economic impact of network and power plant developments.

The Techno-Economical Calculation (TechEco) function can be used to analyse costs and benefits of network expansion using Net Present Value. TechEco analyses investment costs, cost of losses, interruption costs and the economic impact of project schedules.

Power Park Energy Analysis provides an evaluation of the profitability of power plants based on load flow calculations, including options for time-series and probabilistic analysis.

• Economic assessment of network expansion strategies
• Net Present Value method considering costs of losses, investment costs, economic impact of failure rates (only with Reliability Analysis functions), and project schedules
• Efficiency ratio evaluation to determine optimal year of investment
• Parallelised execution using multiple cores
• Study Case Comparison tool, for the evaluation and comparison of different network development strategies
• Reporting options for input data and calculation results

• Economic evaluation of power plants based on load flow calculations, with three calculation methods for energy analysis
• Basic Analysis:
  • Designed for power parks consisting of wind generators
  • Simulation of power generation via wind speed distribution (Weibull) and wind power curves
• Time-series Analysis¹:
  • Energy analysis of power parks over a user-defined period of time using the quasi-dynamic simulation
  • Highly flexible data input, using characteristics for many network equipment parameters
• Probabilistic Analysis²:
  • Power park energy analysis, taking probability distributions of various quantities into account
  • Monte-Carlo and Quasi-Monte Carlo methods available
  • Range of further statistical evaluation possibilities
• Comprehensive report function: report losses, profits and costs, energies, full load hours and more
• Selection of relevant plots with predefined variables

¹Requires Quasi-Dynamic Simulation licence

²Requires Probabilistic Analysis licence

The Probabilistic Analysis allows network assessment based on probabilistic input data rather than assessment of individual operation scenarios or time sweeps. It becomes important as soon as input parameters are known to be random or if one wants to simulate the grid at some time in the future with forecast errors.

A probabilistic assessment processes probabilistic data input and produces stochastic results.

Probabilistic Analysis is offered for:

• Load Flow Analysis;
• Optimal Power Flow.¹

• Network assessment based on probabilistic input data
• Supports Probabilistic Load Flow and Probabilistic Assessment of OPF¹
• Unlimited stochastic input data modelling with flexible distribution curve objects
• Includes probabilistic modelling of generation with PV systems and/or wind generators, as well as variable load consumption
• Support of numerous distributions, such as uniform, normal, log-normal, Weibull, exponential, geometric, Bernoulli, finite discrete
• Modelling of dependencies via correlation objects
• Auto-conversion tool to estimate distributions and correlations based on historic profiles/time series data
• Monte Carlo and fast Quasi-Monte Carlo method
• Determination of statistical results for any calculation quantity, including means and standard deviations (with their confidence intervals), maxima, minima, higher order momenta
• Rich post-processing and plotting facilities for calculation results, including their distribution functions, density functions, correlations
• Post-assessment of critical worst-case or average cases via Probabilistic Analyzer

¹Probabilistic assessment of OPF also requires Optimal Power Flow licence

Network reliability assessment is used to calculate expected interruption frequencies and annual interruption costs. Reliability analysis is an automation and probabilistic extension of contingency evaluation. The relevance of each outage is considered using statistical data about the expected frequency and duration of outages, taking into account the protection systems and the network operator’s actions to re-supply interrupted customers. This optimal power restoration process can also be analysed and carried out for individual contingencies.
Reliability assessment involves determining, generally using statistical methods, the total electric interruptions for loads within a power system during an operating period. The interruptions and their effects are described by several indices, which are calculated in the simulation. Together with the reliability analysis, an optimal way of placing remote controlled switches (RCS) can be determined, in order to resupply as much demand as possible in the shortest time, with a given number of RCS.
The package also includes Generation Adequacy Analysis, where the system supply capabilities are analysed with the help of stochastic methods.

• Line/cable, transformer, distribution transformer, busbar and circuit breaker failures
• Generator failures with stochastic multi-state model
• n-1, n-2 and common mode failures (n-k)
• Double earth faults
• Independent second failures
• Protection/circuit breaker failures
• Protection over-function

• Failure effect analysis (FEA)
  • Automatic protection-based fault clearing
  • Intelligent high-end system restoration with potential network ­reconfiguration and load-shedding
  • Support of branch and boundary flow limits, absolute ­voltage and voltage drop/rise constraints
  • Sectionalising (remote controlled switches, short-circuit ­indicators, manual restoration)
  • Substation automation with switching rules
• Animated tracing of individual cases
• Detailed reports for restoration action plans

• Fast state enumeration for balanced/unbalanced systems, including optimal power restoration techniques
• Calculation of all common reliability indices (IEEE 1366)
• Contribution of components to reliability indices
• Support of load variation, including load distribution curves
• Support of generation dispatch profiles
• Consideration of maintenance schedules
• Support of various tariff and cost models
• Parallelised Reliability Assessment using multiple cores

• Determination of optimal number and locations for RCS installation for improvement of system reliability
• Economic assessment for various objective functions

• Calculation of optimal switching scheme for manual power restoration phase

• Optimal locations for reclosers, to improve reliability indices

• Stochastic assessment of system supply capabilities (loss of load probabilities, capacity credit, etc.)
• Consideration of generator outages and maintenance schedules (Monte Carlo), as well as load variation
• Enhanced probabilistic models for wind generation
• Rich suite of reporting and plotting tools

• Risk assessment for loss of grid supply to critical power stations

The Unit Commitment and Dispatch Optimisation tool allows users to easily complement traditional network simulation with a market simulation, without any need for an external tool, providing a single entry point of information for simulation models. The module solves the unit commitment linear-programming problem over a predefined period of time, while optimising the operating point of the dispatched generators such to minimise overall operating costs. Hence it smoothly combines the functionalities of a Quasi-Dynamic Simulation, Optimal Power Flow and Contingency Analysis. The function supports both internal as well as external LP-solvers like IBM CPLEX and GUROBI, thereby allowing the integration of existing LP simulation environments into PowerFactory.

• Power plant dispatch optimisation for Market Simulation
• Minimisation of redispatch costs, such as operating, emission and startup costs, including curtailment of renewables / load shedding
• Optimisation (AC and/or DC) of generator dispatch schemes including hydro units, batteries and general storage devices, as well as control units such as phase shifters and HVDCs
• State-of-the-art solutions for performance and memory efficiency
• User-definable time periods and resolutions
• Hard and soft constraints including branch and boundary flow limits, voltages, as well as ramping, minimum up/down times or spinning reserves of generators
• Consideration of contingencies in the optimisation, including parallelisation option¹
• Curative redispatch options for managing contingencies¹
• Powerful redundant constraint filter methods
• Seamless integration of all market parameters into network model
• Numerous reporting facilities, and result visualisations, including energy plots and dispatch schedules
• Post-assessment tools for detailed investigations
• Automated generation of optimal solution scenarios and time series
• For standard size optimisation problems: ships with built-in solver
• For solving large-scale problems: integrated optional interface to external solvers such as CPLEX or GUROBI²

¹ Requires Contingency Analysis licence
² CPLEX and GUROBI licences to be purchased separately

The State Estimation (SE) function of PowerFactory provides consistent load flow results for an entire power system, based on real time measurements, manually entered data and the network model. It provides bad data identification, observability analysis and state estimation.

• Assessment of balanced and unbalanced networks
• P, Q, I and V-measurement models
• Measurement plausibility checks
• Automatic bad data detection/elimination
• Verification of system observability
• Various options to handle unobservable regions (e.g. pseudo measurements)
• Consideration of load flow constraints

The RMS simulation tool in PowerFactory can be used to analyse mid-term and long-term transients under both balanced and unbalanced conditions, incorporating a simulation scan feature.  DIgSILENT Simulation Language (DSL) is used for model definition, and a large library of IEEE standard models is available. Flexible co-simulation options are also available.

• Multi-phase AC networks, DC networks
• Support of balanced and unbalanced grid conditions
• Fast, fixed step size and adaptive step size algorithm
• A-stable numerical integration algorithms supporting long-term stability simulations with integration step sizes ranging from milliseconds to minutes, individually selectable for each model
• High precision event and interrupt handling
• Simulation of any kind of fault or event
• Transient motor starting (synchr./asynchr. machines)
• Support of all protection library relays
• Real-time simulation mode
• Simulation scan feature, e.g. frequency scan, loss of synchronism scan, synchronous machine speed scan, voltage-/voltage recovery scan, fault ride through scan or common variable scan
• Frequency Analysis Tool, including Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) and Prony Analysis for single point in time as well as time-range assessment
• Frequency Response Analysis tool for dynamic models with Bode/Nyquist plots

• High-level UDM Representation
  • Graphical modelling environment for the development of UDMs
  • Support of native models (inbuilt elements, DSL and Modelica), as well as externally-interfaced models (FMI and IEC 61400-27)
  • Support of highly scalable concepts for deployment of UDMs in large power networks using Composite Model Frames and Composite Models
  • Access to input/output signals of any network element
  • Support of scalar and vector based signals as well as various signal multiplexing options for easy distribution of signals from/to many components
  • Nesting of Composite Model Frames enabling complex system architectures e.g. interfacing between dispatch center controls, power plant controls and subordinated power equipment components
  • Inbuilt support for creation of user-defined power electronics topologies for EMT Simulation via submodels
  • Support of complete power equipment models: easily pack, export, import and deploy complex UDMs using General Templates
• DIgSILENT Simulation Language (DSL)
  • Graphical modelling environment for development of complex DSL models
  • Large inbuilt library of DSL macros for simplified creation of block diagrams
  • Support of complex non-linear time-continuous control models including advanced functionality e.g. step size independent solution, instantaneous event triggering, fast simulation options
  • Inbuilt editor for coding user-defined DSL models using DIgSILENT Simulation Language
  • Large inbuilt standard model library, including IEEE, IEC, WECC and CIM ENTSO-E models
  • Automatic initialisation of complex, non-linear models
  • Configuration script for initialisation using DPL
  • Compilation of DSL models into DLLs for improved simulation performance
  • Option for automatic compilation of DSL models
  • DSL Encryption function¹ for protection of intellectual property data when using non-compiled (open) DSL models
• Modelica Simulation Language
  • Graphical modelling environment for development of complex Modelica models
  • Inbuilt library of Modelica basic blocks for simplified creation of models containing hierarchically structured block diagrams
  • Support of time discrete (clocked) control models including array signals and variables, sequential algorithms and selectable data types
  • Inbuilt editor for coding user-defined models using Modelica Language
  • Hierarchical parameter structure for Modelica models
  • Configuration script for initialisation using DPL
  • Export Modelica model using the FMU Export function²
• Interfaces for Dynamic Models
  • Import external models using Functional Mock-up Interface (FMI 2.0 for Co-Simulation, FMI 2.0 for Model Exchange)
  • Import external models using IEC 61400-27 DLL C-interface
  • Communicate with external components using the OPC interface³ or various applications (e.g. real-time simulation)
  • Communicate with external components using the IEEE C37.118 simulation interface⁴ for PMU data streaming

• Single domain co-simulation (RMS balanced – RMS balanced, RMS unbalanced – RMS unbalanced, EMT – EMT⁵)
• Multiple domain co-simulation (RMS balanced – RMS unbalanced – EMT⁵)
• Co-simulation with external solver⁶ (e.g. third party power systems ­simulation program) using FMI 2.0 (Functional Mock-Up Interface)
• Computing supported as built-in for increased performance
• Both accurate (implicit) and fast (explicit) co-simulation methods ­available
• Support of multi-port Norton/Thevenin remote network equivalents for explicit method
• Easy to define co-simulation border using boundary objects
• Any number of co-simulation regions can be defined
• Co-simulation of networks split by regions depending on any criteria: localisation, voltage levels, etc.

¹ Licence for DPL/DSL/QDSL encryption required. Encryption Function licence. DIgSILENT does not give any express warranties or guarantees for cryptographic security of encrypted models. In particular, DIgSILENT does not guarantee that the details and functionalities of an encrypted model are secure against all means of access or attack attempts.
² Requires FMU Model Export licence
³ OPC interface licence required
⁴ C37 Simulation Interface licence required
⁵ EMT licence required
⁶ Requires separate Co-Simulation Interface licence

DIgSILENT PowerFactory offers a module for the analysis of the small signal stability in a power network, using an eigenvalue analysis tool which is suitable for balanced and unbalanced network representations. The calculation can be configured to consider all modes of oscillation in the system, or to perform a selective analysis (especially useful in large networks). It considers not only conventional generation, but also non-conventional generation such as wind turbines, PV systems and HVDC.  The results can be visualised in an eigenvalue plot or tabular reports, including all relevant information such as frequency of oscillation, damping and damping ratio. In addition, the participation factors of the state variables, observability (right eigenvectors) and controllability (left eigenvectors) can be visualised in bar and phasor plots.

• Full and selective eigenvalue analysis
• Balanced (positive sequence) or unbalanced network representation, ­including combined AC and DC modelling, with non-conventional generation such as wind turbines, PV systems, HVDC, VSC and other FACTS devices
• Interactive and mutually linked eigenvalue, mode bar and mode phasor plots
• Visualisation of eigenvectors in network diagrams
• Tabular reports of eigenvalues, including damped frequencies, damping time constants
• Detailed reports of oscillatory modes including participation factors of state variables, controllability
  and observability

• Innovative use of neural networks for fast power system analysis
• Automatic generation of datasets for neural network training
• Training of neural networks using GPU capabilites¹
• Application of trained neural networks for ultra-fast Quasi-Dynamic Simulations

¹Requires dedicated NVIDIA GPU with a compute capability of 3.5 or higher