Open Source CoMPAS Software Enhances IEC 61850 Data Model for Dutch Grid Operators
Dutch grid operators and market parties have teamed up with LF Energy to implement the CoMPAS open source software tool for the Real-Time Interface (RTI) project. The goal of the project is to enable grid operators to manage power generation by customers and address capacity constraints on the electricity grid. Specifically catering to customers in category B (1-50 MW), the RTI faced a challenge when it encountered unnecessary data objects and information in the IEC 61850 data model used to define the signals exchanged between grid operators and customers.
To address this challenge, the project team turned to CoMPAS for its data model validation and cleanup capabilities. CoMPAS offers built-in functions that streamline the process, making it accessible even to users with limited knowledge of the IEC 61850 protocol. The software also presents the XML-based data model in a user-friendly and easily readable format. By leveraging CoMPAS, the project team was able to remove unnecessary elements and optimize the structure of the data model, facilitating faster development of the RTI.
The impact of incorporating CoMPAS into the project was significant. Its intuitive interface and validation functions expedited the data model cleanup process, leading to overall efficiency improvements. Even users with limited expertise in the IEC 61850 protocol found CoMPAS accessible and easy to use, simplifying validation and optimization tasks. The time saved in data model cleanup and optimization, as well as the reduction in errors and inefficiencies resulting from a streamlined data model, quantified the impact of CoMPAS on the project’s progress and efficiency.
Looking ahead, the RTI project is currently in its beta phase, with lab and field tests being conducted to finalize the interface’s technical specification. As these tests continue, new findings are expected to arise that will impact the IEC 61850 data model. CoMPAS will play an essential role in analyzing these findings and facilitating necessary changes to the data model. The goal is to incorporate the improvements identified during the testing phase and publish the final version of the technical specification in the third quarter of 2023. As the RTI progresses towards a large-scale rollout, CoMPAS will likely continue to support the ongoing development, implementation, and optimization of the interface.
In conclusion, LF Energy’s CoMPAS software tool has proven to be an invaluable asset in the RTI project’s efforts to clean up and enhance the IEC 61850 data model. By leveraging CoMPAS, Dutch grid operators and market parties have achieved enhanced efficiency, streamlined development, and improved accuracy. The project’s aim to create a robust and effective real-time interface for grid operators and customers is well on its way thanks to the capabilities of CoMPAS. Those interested in utilizing CoMPAS can access the software code on GitHub or join the project mailing list.
