On 15th of May, Končar showcased their PowerCIM product at the UCA International CIM Users Conference in Arnhem, Netherlands, hosted by TenneT TSO B.V. The PowerCIM product will be utilized in HEDGE-IOT Work Package 5 for the Slovenian demo. Its capabilities were presented during the main event, including a live application demonstration at the vendor table.
The purpose of the CIM group of standards is the exchange of necessary data between systems where CIM describes the dictionary (information model) and the scope of data (along with constraints and rules). For the needs of operational planning and analysis for transmission and distribution power systems, it is necessary to model the power network and accompanying business processes. CIM appeared relatively late as a way to exchange network models, but due to its flexibility and coverage of the entire power domain, it is chosen as the main way to exchange network data despite its current shortcomings. Other network data exchange formats often do not distinguish between static data (data that only changes when there are network configuration changes) and network state data (current electrical conditions in the network). Also, other formats are either proprietary (can only be used with certain software) or insufficiently detailed for the ultimate goal of data exchange.
The conference, themed “Gear Up: Support Business Processes and Boost Digitization with the CIM,” commenced with an excellent presentation by TenneT COO Maarten Abbenhuis. He discussed the transformation occurring at TenneT and their vision for addressing the challenges posed by the transition to renewables by 2045. This was followed by Professor Peter Palensky from Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), who presented “Power System Digital Twin: What is it (not)?” Bart Wijnhoven (TenneT) and Giuseppe Martinelli (Svk) highlighted the importance of network model management in digital transformation and the integration of various utility components. These presentations underscored the critical role of the CIM standard in grid digitization and its potential as a key enabler for meeting future grid demands.
The conference also featured technical presentations on the differences between validating CIM data using OCL and SHACL rules. LinkML was proposed as an alternative to RDFS and UML. TenneT, Alliander, Velco, and DNV shared their CIM implementation stories, offering pragmatic and useful advice.
PowerCIM attracted significant interest due to its flexible approach to managing multiple models within a single platform and its ability to quickly retrieve large models with dependencies. This flexibility makes it an ideal tool for complex power systems that require integration of various data sources. The platform’s capability to efficiently handle extensive model data ensures that users can access and manipulate large sets of information, enhancing operational efficiency and decision-making. In addition to its core functionalities, PowerCIM supports the integration of extensions for weather information, which is crucial for accurate forecasting and planning in the energy sector.
The HEDGE-IOT project will leverage PowerCIM’s advanced capabilities to host and manage model data, facilitating the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies with power grid operations. This integration aims to enhance the resilience and adaptability of the grid by enabling more precise monitoring and control of various grid components.
By showcasing PowerCIM at the UCA International CIM Users Conference, Končar demonstrated their commitment to advancing digital transformation in the energy sector, highlighting the critical role of flexible and efficient data management solutions in meeting the evolving demands of modern power systems.
