Real-Time EMT Simulation for Power Systems

This document is a technical report that discusses the necessity of fast and real-time Electromagnetic Transient (EMT) simulations for the performance testing of Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) controllers and online transient stability analysis of large-scale low-inertia power systems. The report outlines the challenges posed by the increasing integration of Inverter-Based Renewables (IBRs), Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS), and High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) systems, which are reducing inertia in power systems. It explains that traditional positive-sequence simulations are inadequate for evaluating transient stability in these complex grids. The report presents solutions for achieving near-real-time EMT simulations through advanced parallel simulation techniques using high-performance computing clusters or cloud servers. It emphasizes the importance of these simulations for optimizing control performance and conducting online stability assessments. The document also highlights the complexities involved in interfacing various black-box controller models with grid simulation tools, which necessitates collaboration with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to ensure interoperability and efficiency in simulations.