Electrisim Web Application
Electrisim is an open-source web-browser tool to perform electrical analyses.
The Electrisim application is based on the open-source projects: pandapower and OpenDSS. Pandapower is commonly used for power system analysis, while OpenDSS is often mostly used for distribution system modeling. By combining these two software in the Electrisim application we are giving you the possibility to use the advantages of these two continuously developed software.
Current Calculation Capabilities
Following calculation capabilities are currently available:
| Analysis | Algorithm |
|---|---|
| Power flow | pandapower |
| Optimal Power Flow | pandapower |
| Short-circuit according to IEC 60909 | pandapower |
| Controller simulation | pandapower |
| Time-series simulation | pandapower |
| Unbalanced, multi-phase power flow | OpenDSS |
About the underlying software:
pandapower is a joint development of the research group Energy Management and Power System Operation, University of Kassel and the Department for Distribution System Operation at the Fraunhofer Institute for Energy Economics and Energy System Technology (IEE), Kassel.
OpenDSS is a development of Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), USA.
You don't need to install the pandapower or OpenDSS and use a script language to calculate the electrical network. With the Electrisim web application, you can easily perform these calculations by simply dragging and dropping elements.
Note: The Electrisim application is designed to work only in desktop web browsers and is not compatible with mobile phones.
First Steps in Electrisim
To get started with Electrisim, watch our introductory video that demonstrates the basic workflow of creating and analyzing a power system network:
Datastructure and Elements
Following electrical elements are currently available in the Electrisim application:
| Element | Pandapower | OpenDSS |
|---|---|---|
| Bus | ✅ Available | ✅ Available |
| Line | ✅ Available | ✅ Available |
| Load | ✅ Available | ✅ Available |
| Generator | ✅ Available | ✅ Available |
| Static Generator | ✅ Available | 🟡 no direct element (can be implemented by setting the Generator parameters) |
| Asymmetric Static Generator | ✅ Available | 🟡 no direct element (can be implemented by setting the Generator parameters) |
| External Grid | ✅ Available | ✅ Available (Vsource) |
| Transformer | ✅ Available | ✅ Available |
| Shunt (capacitor or shunt reactor) | ✅ Available | ✅ Available |
| Impedance | ✅ Available | ✅ Available |
| Storage | ✅ Available | ✅ Available |
| Protection relay | ✅ Available | ✅ Available |
| Fuse | ✅ Available | ✅ Available |
| Thyristor-Controlled Series Capacitor (TCSC) | ✅ Available | ✅ Available |
| Switch | ✅ Available | ✅ Available |
| Three Winding Transformer | ✅ Available | 🟡 no direct element (can be implemented as a bank of two-winding transformers) |
| Asymmetric Load | ✅ Available | 🟡 no direct element (can be implemented by setting the parameters of Load) |
| Motor | ✅ Available | 🟡 no direct element (can be implemented by setting the parameters of Load) |
| Ward | ✅ Available | 🟡 no direct element (can be implemented by modelling PQ+shunt) |
| Extended Ward | ✅ Available | 🟡 no direct element (can be implemented by modelling PV+PQ+shunt) |
| DC line | ✅ Available | ❌ Not Available |
| Voltage Source Converter (VSC) | ✅ Available | ❌ Not Available |
| Static Var Compensator (SVC) | ✅ Available | 🟡 no direct element (can be implemented by modelling Capacitor + Reactor+CapControl) |
| Static Synchronous Compensator STATCOM (SSC) | ✅ Available | 🟡 no direct element (can be implemented by modelling Generator+InvControl) |
| DC Bus | ✅ Available | ❌ Not Available |
| PVSystem | 🟡 no direct element (can be scarsely implemented by static generator) | ✅ Available |
| Unified power flow controller (UPFC) | 🟡 no direct element (can be implemented by modelling SSC + VSC or DC line) | ✅ Available |
Below you'll find detailed information about each element, including key parameters and usage guidelines.
Simulation Type Parameter Requirements
Different simulation types require different sets of parameters. Understanding these requirements helps you configure your network elements correctly for the specific analysis you want to perform.
Key:
- 🔴 Required: Essential parameters that must be specified
- 🟡 Recommended: Important parameters for accurate results
- 🟢 Optional: Parameters that enhance functionality but aren't required
- ⚪ Not Used: Parameters not relevant for this simulation type
Element Details
Detailed parameter information for each electrical element:
Bus
A bus (also called node or busbar) is a fundamental element in the network where multiple components can be connected. Buses serve as connection points and voltage reference points in the electrical network.
Documentation References: 📘 pandapower Bus 📗 OpenDSS Documentation
Parameters:
| Parameter | Description | Type | Value Range | OpenDSS Equivalent | Simulation Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| name | Name of the bus | string | - | Bus name | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| vn_kv | Rated voltage in kV | float | > 0 | kVBase | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| type | Bus type (b = busbar, n = node, m = muff) | string | b, n, m | - | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| zone | Grid zone for contingency analysis | string | - | - | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| in_service | Specifies if the bus is in service | boolean | True/False | enabled | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
Line
Lines represent transmission or distribution lines that connect buses in the network. They are characterized by their resistance, reactance, and capacitance per unit length.
Documentation References: 📘 pandapower Line 📗 OpenDSS Line
Parameters:
| Parameter | Description | Type | Value Range | OpenDSS Equivalent | Simulation Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| name | Name of the line | string | - | name | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| from_bus | Starting bus | integer | - | Bus1 | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| to_bus | Ending bus | integer | - | Bus2 | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| length_km | Line length in kilometers | float | > 0 | Length | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| r_ohm_per_km | Resistance per kilometer (Ω/km) | float | ≥ 0 | R1 | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| x_ohm_per_km | Reactance per kilometer (Ω/km) | float | ≥ 0 | X1 | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| c_nf_per_km | Capacitance per kilometer (nF/km) | float | ≥ 0 | C1 | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| g_us_per_km | Dielectric conductance per kilometer (μS/km) | float | ≥ 0 | - | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| max_i_ka | Maximum thermal current (kA) | float | > 0 | normamps | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| r0_ohm_per_km | Zero-sequence resistance per kilometer (Ω/km) | float | ≥ 0 | R0 | 🟡 SC |
| x0_ohm_per_km | Zero-sequence reactance per kilometer (Ω/km) | float | ≥ 0 | X0 | 🟡 SC |
| c0_nf_per_km | Zero-sequence capacitance per kilometer (nF/km) | float | ≥ 0 | C0 | 🟡 SC |
| type | Type of line ("ol" for overhead, "cs" for cable) | string | ol, cs | - | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| parallel | Number of parallel lines | integer | ≥ 1 | - | 🟢 PF, SC, OPF |
| df | Derating factor (applies to max_i_ka) | float | 0-1 | - | 🟢 PF, SC, OPF |
| in_service | Specifies if the line is in service | boolean | True/False | enabled | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
Load
Loads represent power consumption at a bus. They can be defined as constant power, constant current, or constant impedance loads.
Documentation References: 📘 pandapower Load 📗 OpenDSS Load
Parameters:
| Parameter | Description | Type | Value Range | OpenDSS Equivalent | Simulation Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| name | Name of the load | string | - | name | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| bus | Bus the load is connected to | integer | - | Bus1 | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| p_mw | Active power consumption in MW | float | - | kW | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| q_mvar | Reactive power consumption in Mvar | float | - | kvar | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| const_z_percent | Percentage of constant impedance load | float | 0-100 | %Z | 🟢 PF, SC, OPF |
| const_i_percent | Percentage of constant current load | float | 0-100 | %I | 🟢 PF, SC, OPF |
| sn_mva | Rated apparent power in MVA | float | > 0 | kVA | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| scaling | Scaling factor for power values | float | > 0 | - | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| type | Type of load model | string | - | model | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| in_service | Specifies if the load is in service | boolean | True/False | enabled | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
Motor
Motor elements represent electric motors in the network. Motors have dynamic characteristics that affect short-circuit calculations and stability studies.
Documentation References: 📘 pandapower Motor 📗 OpenDSS Motor
Parameters:
| Parameter | Description | Type | Value Range | OpenDSS Equivalent | Simulation Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| name | Name of the motor | string | - | name | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| bus | Bus the motor is connected to | integer | - | Bus1 | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| pn_mech_mw | Rated mechanical power in MW | float | > 0 | HP (converted) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| vn_kv | Rated voltage in kV | float | > 0 | kV | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| cos_phi | Power factor (lagging) | float | 0-1 | pf | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| efficiency_percent | Efficiency in percent at current loading | float | 0-100 | %Eff | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| efficiency_n_percent | Rated efficiency in percent at nominal conditions | float | 0-100 | %EffRated | 🟢 PF, SC, OPF |
| loading_percent | Current loading in percent of rated power | float | 0-100 | %LoadMW | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| scaling | Scaling factor for power | float | > 0 | - | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| lrc_pu | Locked rotor current in per unit for short-circuit calculation | float | > 0 | LRC | 🔴 SC |
| rx | R/X ratio for short-circuit impedance | float | ≥ 0 | R/X | 🔴 SC |
| in_service | Specifies if the motor is in service | boolean | True/False | enabled | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
Asymmetric Load
Asymmetric loads allow modeling of unbalanced three-phase loads where each phase can have different power consumption. This is particularly useful for distribution network analysis.
Documentation References: 📘 pandapower Asymmetric Load 📗 OpenDSS Load
Parameters:
| Parameter | Description | Type | Value Range | OpenDSS Equivalent | Simulation Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| name | Name of the asymmetric load | string | - | name | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| bus | Bus the load is connected to | integer | - | Bus1 | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| p_a_mw, p_b_mw, p_c_mw | Active power per phase in MW (phases A, B, C) | float | - | kW (per phase) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| q_a_mvar, q_b_mvar, q_c_mvar | Reactive power per phase in Mvar (phases A, B, C) | float | - | kvar (per phase) | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| sn_mva | Rated apparent power in MVA | float | > 0 | kVA | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| scaling | Scaling factor for power values | float | > 0 | - | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| type | Connection type (wye or delta) | string | wye, delta | conn | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| in_service | Specifies if the load is in service | boolean | True/False | enabled | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
Static Generator
Static generators represent generators with static behavior, such as wind turbines, photovoltaic systems, or small generation units that don't have significant dynamic characteristics.
Documentation References: 📘 pandapower Static Generator 📗 OpenDSS Generator
Parameters:
| Parameter | Description | Type | Value Range | OpenDSS Equivalent | Simulation Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| name | Name of the static generator | string | - | name | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| bus | Bus the generator is connected to | integer | - | Bus1 | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| p_mw | Active power generation in MW | float | - | kW | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| q_mvar | Reactive power generation in Mvar | float | - | kvar | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| sn_mva | Rated apparent power in MVA | float | > 0 | kVA | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| type | Type of generator (e.g., PV, wind, CHP) | string | - | - | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| controllable | Whether the generator is controllable | boolean | True/False | - | 🔴 OPF |
| scaling | Scaling factor for power | float | > 0 | - | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| k | Factor for short-circuit calculation (typically 1.1) | float | > 0 | - | 🟡 SC |
| rx | R/X ratio for short-circuit impedance | float | ≥ 0 | R/X | 🔴 SC |
| generator_type | Generator type for short-circuit (current_source, async, doubly_fed) | string | - | - | 🟡 SC |
| lrc_pu | Locked rotor current in per unit for short-circuit | float | > 0 | LRC | 🟡 SC |
| max_ik_ka | Maximum short-circuit current in kA | float | > 0 | - | 🟡 SC |
| current_source | Whether generator acts as current source for short-circuit | boolean | True/False | - | 🟡 SC |
| kappa | Factor for peak short-circuit current (typically 1.5) | float | > 0 | - | 🟡 SC |
| in_service | Specifies if the generator is in service | boolean | True/False | enabled | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
Asymmetric Static Generator
Asymmetric static generators allow modeling of unbalanced generation where each phase can produce different power levels.
Documentation References: 📘 pandapower Asymmetric Static Generator 📗 OpenDSS Generator
Parameters:
| Parameter | Description | Type | Value Range | OpenDSS Equivalent | Simulation Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| name | Name of the asymmetric generator | string | - | name | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| bus | Bus the generator is connected to | integer | - | Bus1 | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| p_a_mw, p_b_mw, p_c_mw | Active power per phase in MW (phases A, B, C) | float | - | kW (per phase) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| q_a_mvar, q_b_mvar, q_c_mvar | Reactive power per phase in Mvar (phases A, B, C) | float | - | kvar (per phase) | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| type | Connection type (wye or delta) | string | wye, delta | conn | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| in_service | Specifies if the generator is in service | boolean | True/False | enabled | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
External Grid
The external grid represents the connection to a higher voltage level or an infinite bus. It serves as the slack bus in power flow calculations and provides the voltage reference.
Documentation References: 📘 pandapower External Grid 📗 OpenDSS Vsource
Parameters:
| Parameter | Description | Type | Value Range | OpenDSS Equivalent | Simulation Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| name | Name of the external grid | string | - | name | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| bus | Bus the external grid is connected to | integer | - | Bus1 | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| vm_pu | Voltage magnitude setpoint in per unit | float | > 0 | pu (Vsource) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| va_degree | Voltage angle in degrees | float | -360 to 360 | angle | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| s_sc_max_mva | Maximum short-circuit apparent power in MVA | float | > 0 | MVAsc3 | 🔴 SC |
| s_sc_min_mva | Minimum short-circuit apparent power in MVA | float | > 0 | MVAsc1 | 🟡 SC |
| rx_max | Maximum R/X ratio for positive sequence short-circuit | float | ≥ 0 | R1/X1 | 🔴 SC |
| rx_min | Minimum R/X ratio for positive sequence short-circuit | float | ≥ 0 | R1/X1 | 🟡 SC |
| r0x0_max | Maximum R0/X0 ratio for zero sequence short-circuit | float | ≥ 0 | R0/X0 | 🟡 SC |
| x0x_max | Maximum X0/X ratio (zero to positive sequence reactance) | float | ≥ 0 | X0/X1 | 🟡 SC |
| in_service | Specifies if the external grid is in service | boolean | True/False | enabled | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
Transformer
Transformers connect different voltage levels in the network. They can be equipped with tap changers for voltage regulation.
Documentation References: 📘 pandapower Transformer 📗 OpenDSS Transformer
Parameters:
| Parameter | Description | Type | Value Range | OpenDSS Equivalent | Simulation Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| name | Name of the transformer | string | - | name | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| hv_bus | High voltage bus | integer | - | Bus (winding 1) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| lv_bus | Low voltage bus | integer | - | Bus (winding 2) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| sn_mva | Rated apparent power in MVA | float | > 0 | kVA | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| vn_hv_kv | Rated high voltage in kV | float | > 0 | kV (winding 1) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| vn_lv_kv | Rated low voltage in kV | float | > 0 | kV (winding 2) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| vk_percent | Short-circuit voltage in percent | float | > 0 | %Z | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| vkr_percent | Real part of short-circuit voltage in percent | float | ≥ 0 | %R | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| pfe_kw | Iron losses in kW | float | ≥ 0 | %noload | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| i0_percent | No-load current in percent | float | ≥ 0 | %imag | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| parallel | Number of parallel transformers | integer | ≥ 1 | - | 🟢 PF, SC, OPF |
| shift_degree | Phase shift angle in degrees | float | -360 to 360 | Wdg (angle) | 🟢 PF, SC, OPF |
| vector_group | Vector group designation (e.g., "Dyn11", "Yyn0") | string | - | Wdg (conn) | 🟢 PF, SC, OPF |
| tap_side | Side with tap changer ("hv" or "lv") | string | hv, lv | Wdg (tap side) | 🔴 OPF |
| tap_pos | Current tap position | integer | - | tap | 🟡 OPF |
| tap_neutral | Neutral tap position | integer | - | - | 🟢 OPF |
| tap_min | Minimum tap position | integer | - | MinTap | 🔴 OPF |
| tap_max | Maximum tap position | integer | - | MaxTap | 🔴 OPF |
| tap_step_percent | Voltage change per tap step in percent | float | - | %RperTap | 🔴 OPF |
| tap_step_degree | Phase angle change per tap step in degrees | float | - | - | 🟢 OPF |
| vk0_percent | Zero-sequence short-circuit voltage in percent | float | > 0 | %Z0 | 🟡 SC |
| vkr0_percent | Real part of zero-sequence short-circuit voltage in percent | float | ≥ 0 | %R0 | 🟡 SC |
| mag0_percent | Zero-sequence magnetizing current in percent | float | ≥ 0 | - | 🟢 SC |
| mag0_rx | Zero-sequence magnetizing R/X ratio | float | ≥ 0 | - | 🟢 SC |
| si0_hv_partial | Zero-sequence short-circuit impedance distribution (HV side) | float | 0-1 | - | 🟡 SC |
| in_service | Specifies if the transformer is in service | boolean | True/False | enabled | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
Three Winding Transformer
Three winding transformers have three separate windings, typically connecting three different voltage levels at one location.
Documentation References: 📘 pandapower Three Winding Transformer 📗 OpenDSS Transformer
Parameters:
| Parameter | Description | Type | Value Range | OpenDSS Equivalent | Simulation Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| name | Name of the three winding transformer | string | - | name | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| hv_bus | High voltage bus | integer | - | - | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| mv_bus | Medium voltage bus | integer | - | - | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| lv_bus | Low voltage bus | integer | - | - | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| sn_hv_mva, sn_mv_mva, sn_lv_mva | Rated power per winding in MVA | float | > 0 | - | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| vn_hv_kv, vn_mv_kv, vn_lv_kv | Rated voltage per winding in kV | float | > 0 | - | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| vk_hv_percent, vk_mv_percent, vk_lv_percent | Short-circuit voltages in percent | float | > 0 | %Z (Wdg 1-2, 2-3, 3-1) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| vkr_hv_percent, vkr_mv_percent, vkr_lv_percent | Real part of short-circuit voltages in percent | float | ≥ 0 | %R (Wdg 1-2, 2-3, 3-1) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| pfe_kw | Iron losses in kW | float | ≥ 0 | %noload | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| i0_percent | No-load current in percent | float | ≥ 0 | %imag | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| shift_mv_degree | Phase shift angle for MV winding in degrees | float | -360 to 360 | Wdg 2 angle | 🟢 PF, SC, OPF |
| shift_lv_degree | Phase shift angle for LV winding in degrees | float | -360 to 360 | Wdg 3 angle | 🟢 PF, SC, OPF |
| vector_group | Vector group designation (e.g., "YNyn0d5") | string | - | Wdg (conn) | 🟢 PF, SC, OPF |
| tap_side | Winding with tap changer ("hv", "mv", or "lv") | string | hv, mv, lv | Wdg (tap side) | 🔴 OPF |
| tap_pos | Current tap position | integer | - | tap | 🟡 OPF |
| tap_neutral | Neutral tap position | integer | - | - | 🟢 OPF |
| tap_min | Minimum tap position | integer | - | MinTap | 🔴 OPF |
| tap_max | Maximum tap position | integer | - | MaxTap | 🔴 OPF |
| tap_step_percent | Voltage change per tap step in percent | float | - | %RperTap | 🔴 OPF |
| vk0_hv_percent, vk0_mv_percent, vk0_lv_percent | Zero-sequence short-circuit voltages in percent | float | > 0 | %Z0 (Wdg pairs) | 🟡 SC |
| vkr0_hv_percent, vkr0_mv_percent, vkr0_lv_percent | Real part of zero-sequence short-circuit voltages in percent | float | ≥ 0 | %R0 (Wdg pairs) | 🟡 SC |
| in_service | Specifies if the transformer is in service | boolean | True/False | enabled | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
Generator
Generators represent synchronous generators with dynamic behavior. They are typically used for large power plants and have voltage control capabilities.
Documentation References: 📘 pandapower Generator 📗 OpenDSS Generator
Parameters:
| Parameter | Description | Type | Value Range | OpenDSS Equivalent | Simulation Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| name | Name of the generator | string | - | name | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| bus | Bus the generator is connected to | integer | - | Bus1 | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| p_mw | Active power setpoint in MW | float | - | kW | 🔴 OPF |
| vm_pu | Voltage magnitude setpoint in per unit | float | > 0 | kV (model=3) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| sn_mva | Rated apparent power in MVA | float | > 0 | kVA | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| min_q_mvar | Minimum reactive power in Mvar | float | - | kvarmin | 🔴 OPF |
| max_q_mvar | Maximum reactive power in Mvar | float | - | kvarmax | 🔴 OPF |
| scaling | Scaling factor for power | float | > 0 | - | 🟢 PF, SC, OPF |
| slack | Whether this is the slack generator | boolean | True/False | - | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| vn_kv | Rated voltage in kV | float | > 0 | kV | 🔴 SC |
| xdss_pu | Subtransient reactance in per unit for short-circuit | float | > 0 | Xd'' | 🔴 SC |
| rdss_ohm | Subtransient resistance in Ohm for short-circuit | float | ≥ 0 | - | 🟡 SC |
| cos_phi | Rated power factor (cosine phi) | float | 0-1 | pf | 🟡 SC |
| pg_percent | Generator participation factor in percent for power dispatch | float | 0-100 | - | 🟡 OPF |
| in_service | Specifies if the generator is in service | boolean | True/False | enabled | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
Shunt
Shunt elements represent devices connected in parallel to the bus, such as capacitor banks, reactors, or filters used for reactive power compensation.
Documentation References: 📘 pandapower Shunt 📗 OpenDSS Capacitor
Parameters:
| Parameter | Description | Type | Value Range | OpenDSS Equivalent | Simulation Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| name | Name of the shunt | string | - | name | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| bus | Bus the shunt is connected to | integer | - | Bus1 | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| q_mvar | Reactive power in Mvar (positive for capacitive, negative for inductive) | float | - | kvar (Capacitor) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| p_mw | Active power in MW (usually zero) | float | - | - | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| vn_kv | Rated voltage in kV | float | > 0 | kV | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| step | Step number for switched shunts | integer | ≥ 1 | numsteps | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| in_service | Specifies if the shunt is in service | boolean | True/False | enabled | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
Impedance
Impedance elements represent arbitrary impedances connecting two buses. They are useful for modeling special connections or simplified network equivalents.
Documentation References: 📘 pandapower Impedance 📗 OpenDSS Documentation
Parameters:
| Parameter | Description | Type | Value Range | OpenDSS Equivalent | Simulation Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| name | Name of the impedance | string | - | name | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| from_bus | Starting bus | integer | - | Bus1 | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| to_bus | Ending bus | integer | - | Bus2 | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| rft_pu | Resistance in per unit | float | ≥ 0 | R (converted to ohms) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| xft_pu | Reactance in per unit | float | - | X (converted to ohms) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| sn_mva | Rated apparent power for per unit calculation in MVA | float | > 0 | - | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
| in_service | Specifies if the impedance is in service | boolean | True/False | enabled | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
Ward
Ward equivalents represent a reduced network with a constant impedance and constant power component. They are used for network reduction.
Documentation References: 📘 pandapower Ward 📗 OpenDSS Documentation
Parameters:
| Parameter | Description | Type | Value Range | OpenDSS Equivalent | Simulation Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| name | Name of the ward equivalent | string | - | - | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| bus | Bus the ward is connected to | integer | - | - | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| ps_mw | Active power of the constant power component in MW | float | - | PQ Load (kW) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| qs_mvar | Reactive power of the constant power component in Mvar | float | - | PQ Load (kvar) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| pz_mw | Active power of the constant impedance component in MW | float | - | Shunt (equiv.) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| qz_mvar | Reactive power of the constant impedance component in Mvar | float | - | Shunt (equiv.) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| in_service | Specifies if the ward is in service | boolean | True/False | - | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
Extended Ward
Extended Ward equivalents are an extension of Ward equivalents with an additional internal bus and impedance, allowing for more accurate representation of reduced networks.
Documentation References: 📘 pandapower Extended Ward 📗 OpenDSS Documentation
Parameters:
| Parameter | Description | Type | Value Range | OpenDSS Equivalent | Simulation Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| name | Name of the extended ward | string | - | - | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| bus | External bus | integer | - | - | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| ps_mw | Active power of constant power component in MW | float | - | PQ Load (kW) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| qs_mvar | Reactive power of constant power component in Mvar | float | - | PQ Load (kvar) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| pz_mw | Active power of impedance component in MW | float | - | Shunt (equiv.) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| qz_mvar | Reactive power of impedance component in Mvar | float | - | Shunt (equiv.) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| r_ohm | Internal resistance in Ohm | float | ≥ 0 | - | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| x_ohm | Internal reactance in Ohm | float | - | - | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| vm_pu | Internal bus voltage magnitude in per unit | float | > 0 | PV Gen (equiv.) | 🔴 PF, SC, OPF |
| in_service | Specifies if the extended ward is in service | boolean | True/False | - | 🟡 PF, SC, OPF |
DC Line
DC lines represent high-voltage direct current (HVDC) connections between AC systems. They provide controlled power transfer and can connect asynchronous networks.
Documentation References: 📘 pandapower DC Line OpenDSS: Not Available
Parameters:
| Parameter | Description | Type | Value Range | OpenDSS Equivalent | Simulation Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| name | Name of the DC line | string | - | - | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| from_bus | Starting bus (rectifier side) | integer | - | - | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| to_bus | Ending bus (inverter side) | integer | - | - | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| p_mw | Active power transmitted from from_bus to to_bus in MW | float | - | - | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| loss_percent | Relative transmission loss in percent | float | ≥ 0 | - | 🟡 PF, OPF |
| loss_mw | Fixed transmission loss in MW | float | ≥ 0 | - | 🟡 PF, OPF |
| vm_from_pu | Voltage setpoint at the from bus in per unit | float | > 0 | - | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| vm_to_pu | Voltage setpoint at the to bus in per unit | float | > 0 | - | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| in_service | Specifies if the DC line is in service | boolean | True/False | - | 🟡 PF, OPF |
Storage
Storage elements represent battery energy storage systems (BESS) or other energy storage technologies that can both consume and generate power.
Documentation References: 📘 pandapower Storage 📗 OpenDSS Storage
Parameters:
| Parameter | Description | Type | Value Range | OpenDSS Equivalent | Simulation Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| name | Name of the storage | string | - | name | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| bus | Bus the storage is connected to | integer | - | Bus1 | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| p_mw | Active power in MW (positive = discharging, negative = charging) | float | - | kW (Storage) | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| q_mvar | Reactive power in Mvar | float | - | kvar (Storage) | 🟡 PF, OPF |
| sn_mva | Rated apparent power in MVA | float | > 0 | kVA (Storage) | 🟡 PF, OPF |
| max_e_mwh | Maximum energy capacity in MWh | float | > 0 | kWhrated | 🔴 OPF |
| soc_percent | State of charge in percent | float | 0-100 | %stored | 🟡 OPF |
| min_e_mwh | Minimum energy capacity in MWh | float | ≥ 0 | %reserve | 🔴 OPF |
| scaling | Scaling factor for power values | float | > 0 | - | 🟡 PF, OPF |
| type | Type of storage (e.g., battery, flywheel) | string | - | - | 🟡 PF, OPF |
| in_service | Specifies if the storage is in service | boolean | True/False | enabled | 🟡 PF, OPF |
Static Var Compensator (SVC)
Static Var Compensators are FACTS devices used for dynamic voltage support and reactive power control. They can rapidly adjust reactive power output.
Documentation References: 📘 pandapower SVC 📗 OpenDSS Documentation
Parameters:
| Parameter | Description | Type | Value Range | OpenDSS Equivalent | Simulation Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| name | Name of the SVC | string | - | - | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| bus | Bus the SVC is connected to | integer | - | - | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| x_l_ohm | Inductive reactance in Ohm | float | > 0 | XL (Reactor) | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| x_cvar_ohm | Variable capacitive reactance in Ohm | float | > 0 | kvar (Capacitor) | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| set_vm_pu | Voltage setpoint in per unit | float | > 0 | kvarlimit (CapControl) | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| thyristor_firing_angle_degree | Thyristor firing angle in degrees | float | 0-180 | - | 🟡 PF, OPF |
| min_angle_degree | Minimum thyristor firing angle in degrees | float | 0-180 | - | 🟡 PF, OPF |
| max_angle_degree | Maximum thyristor firing angle in degrees | float | 0-180 | - | 🟡 PF, OPF |
| controllable | Whether the SVC is controllable | boolean | True/False | - | 🔴 OPF |
| in_service | Specifies if the SVC is in service | boolean | True/False | - | 🟡 PF, OPF |
Thyristor-Controlled Series Capacitor (TCSC)
TCSCs are FACTS devices that provide controllable series compensation to regulate power flow and improve transmission capacity.
Documentation References: 📘 pandapower TCSC 📗 OpenDSS Documentation
Parameters:
| Parameter | Description | Type | Value Range | OpenDSS Equivalent | Simulation Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| name | Name of the TCSC | string | - | name | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| from_bus | Starting bus | integer | - | Bus1 | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| to_bus | Ending bus | integer | - | Bus2 | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| x_l_ohm | Inductive reactance in Ohm | float | > 0 | XL (Reactor) | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| x_cvar_ohm | Variable capacitive reactance in Ohm | float | > 0 | C (Capacitor) | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| set_p_to_mw | Power flow setpoint at receiving end in MW | float | - | - | 🔴 OPF |
| thyristor_firing_angle_degree | Thyristor firing angle in degrees | float | 0-180 | - | 🟡 PF, OPF |
| min_angle_degree | Minimum firing angle in degrees | float | 0-180 | - | 🟡 PF, OPF |
| max_angle_degree | Maximum firing angle in degrees | float | 0-180 | - | 🟡 PF, OPF |
| controllable | Whether the TCSC is controllable | boolean | True/False | - | 🔴 OPF |
| in_service | Specifies if the TCSC is in service | boolean | True/False | enabled | 🟡 PF, OPF |
Static Synchronous Compensator (SSC / STATCOM)
Static Synchronous Compensators (STATCOM) are advanced FACTS devices that use voltage source converters to provide dynamic reactive power support. They offer superior voltage control compared to traditional SVCs.
Documentation References: 📘 pandapower SSC 📗 OpenDSS Documentation
Parameters:
| Parameter | Description | Type | Value Range | OpenDSS Equivalent | Simulation Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| name | Name of the SSC | string | - | name | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| bus | Bus the SSC is connected to | integer | - | Bus1 | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| r_ohm | Internal resistance in Ohm | float | ≥ 0 | R (Generator) | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| x_ohm | Internal reactance in Ohm | float | > 0 | X (Generator) | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| set_vm_pu | Voltage setpoint at connection bus in per unit | float | > 0 | Voltage (InvControl) | 🔴 PF, OPF |
| vm_internal_pu | Internal voltage magnitude in per unit | float | > 0 | kV (Generator) | 🟡 PF, OPF |
| va_internal_degree | Internal voltage angle in degrees | float | -360 to 360 | Angle (Generator) | 🟡 PF, OPF |
| controllable | Whether the SSC is controllable | boolean | True/False | Enabled (InvControl) | 🔴 OPF |
| in_service | Specifies if the SSC is in service | boolean | True/False | enabled | 🟡 PF, OPF |
Development Process
Electrisim is continuously being developed to provide enhanced features and capabilities for power system analysis.
Contributing
Electrisim is built on open-source foundations, and we welcome contributions from the community. Whether you're reporting bugs, suggesting features, or contributing code, your input helps make Electrisim better.
Roadmap
Future developments planned for Electrisim include:
- Enhanced visualization capabilities
- Additional analysis methods
- Improved user interface and workflow
- Extended element libraries
- Advanced controller implementations
- Integration with more open-source tools
Feedback and Support
If you encounter any issues or have suggestions for improvement, please contact us through the contact form on the main website or visit our GitHub repository.
Version History
Electrisim is regularly updated with bug fixes, performance improvements, and new features. Check the application for the latest version information.
Acknowledgments
Electrisim would not be possible without the excellent work of the pandapower and OpenDSS development teams. We are grateful for their continued development and maintenance of these powerful open-source tools.
Last updated: October 2025