A generalized shell for dynamic security analysis in operations planning

This paper introduces the concept of a generalized shell for performing power-system dynamic security analysis. The generalized shell mechanizes routines traditionally carried out by human experts and that are essential to power-system dynamic security analysis, thereby greatly accelerating the realization of complex processes. The shell semantics express high-level goals and tasks using a friendly, highly compact syntax which closely matches the language of operations planners. Typically, the shell will execute appropriate load-flow and transient-stability simulations (i.e. using commercially available simulation software), perform result analysis, make input changes and repeat this process until a user-defined goal has been achieved. A working shell prototype for performing key algorithmic processes is described and results of a typical sensitivity study are presented using a 700-bus model of the Hydro-Quebec network. It is expected that the prototype will reduce study-cycle time, improve the accuracy of dynamic security limits and, indeed, transform the working environment of operations and system planners. Eventually, it can be foreseen that the approach will gravitate towards supporting on-line dynamic security analysis.