Transmission and distribution co-simulation: a review and propositions

With the growing trend of emerging new technologies in distribution networks, such as wind turbines, solar panels, electric vehicles, and distributed generations, the passive distribution systems may become ‘active’ which requires more study in the area of integrated transmission and distribution systems (ITDSs) and corresponding bilateral interactions. To solve this problem, most of the studies connect distinct simulators to create a novel co-simulation framework for ITDS. In this study, the authors present a literature survey of existing ITDS co-simulation frameworks along co-optimisation in ITDS. These frameworks are categorised on multiple characteristics, such as simulation tools, synchronisation methods, and research topics. Furthermore, they propose a software platform that is focused on the integrated generation, transmission, distribution, and customer systems (IGTDCSs). The proposed framework also comprises several technological dimensions such as stochastic optimisation, high-performance computing, and high-level design software architecture for planning integrated and flexible power networks and optimising their technological trajectories and operational functioning considering uncertainties. By developing a prototype informed with software engineering and complex system design approaches, they will demonstrate the relevance of a unified vision of IGTDCS simulation in a minute-by-minute horizon, a vision that may later benefit electromagnetic transient simulation or stability co-simulation tools, in horizons from the microsecond to the second.