Introduction
GridLAB-D is a power system simulation tool that provides valuable information to users who design and operate electric power transmission and distribution systems, and to utilities that wish to take advantage of the latest smart grid technology. It incorporates advanced modeling techniques with high-performance algorithms to deliver the latest in end-use load modeling technology integrated with three-phase unbalanced power flow, and retail market systems. Historically, the inability to effectively model and evaluate smart grid technologies has been a barrier to adoption; GridLAB-D is designed to address this problem.
This guide to using GridLAB-D is intended to help those who are at least slightly familiar with distribution systems to establish a foundation that will allow them to use GridLAB-D in their work. It is not intended to be comprehensive as GridLAB-D contains many models with many parameters, but rather to address some of the more important and popular features. The guide will not only address practical issues such as how certain models function but also more general topics exploring the architecture of GridLAB-D.
This guide contains and references many example GridLAB-D models and files. Readers are recommended to pull a local copy of the folder at https://github.com/gridlab-d/course/tree/master/Tutorial so these files are readily available during the tutorial.
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 - Installing GridLAB-D
Chapter 2 - GridLAB-D Key Attributes
Chapter 3 - Basic Distribution System Modeling
- A Brief Power System Introduction
- Model Overview - Distribution System Basics
- Results from Simulation
- Distribution System Alternative Form
Chapter 4 - Data Input and Output
Chapter 6 - Distributed Generation
Chapter 7 - Advanced Distribution Models