An Integrated Simulation Tool for Analyzing the Operation and Interdependency of Natural Gas and Electric Power Systems

Abstract

In this paper, we present an integrated simulation tool for analyzing the interdependency of natural gas and electric power systems in terms of security of energy supply. In the first part, we develop mathematical models for the individual systems. In part two, we identify the interconnections between both systems and propose a method for coupling the combined simulation model. Next, we develop the algorithm for solving the combined system and integrate this algorithm into a simulation software. Finally, we demonstrate the value of the software in a case study on a real world interconnected gas and electric power system of an European region.

Introduction

The ongoing integration of renewable energy resources into the energy portfolio of the European Union is connected with an increased interconnection between the different critical energy infrastructures (CEI). The interdependency between natural gas and electric power systems, for instance, is expected to grow in the near future. On the electric side, the demand for flexible backup power for intermittent renewable energy sources is increasing, which can be met by gas fired power plants (GPP) connected to the gas and electric grid, while on the gas side an increased use of electric power to operate facilities in the gas system can be observed (e.g. electric driven compressors, electric power supply to LNG Terminals etc.). Moreover, the present advancement in the Power-to-Gas technology will significantly contribute to the coupling of both systems. These trends suggest the need for simulation models to examine the depth and scope of these interdependencies, how they may affect the operation of both systems and how to proactively approach the bottlenecks that may emerge. Furthermore, developing combined gas and electricity models will also facilitate the development of Risk Assessment for this type of coupled networks.

In this paper, we present an integrated simulation tool for analyzing the interdependency of gas and electric power systems in terms of security of energy supply, i.e. the uninterrupted supply of energy to its customers (e.g. commercial, residential, industrial customers, public services and power generation companies) particularly in case of difficult climatic conditions and in the event of disruptions [1].

The first part of the paper, focuses on developing the mathematical models for both systems. The second part, elaborates the interconnections between both systems and derives coupling equations for the combined system, followed by a description of the algorithm for solving the resulting system of equations. Finally, the capability of the simulation tool is demonstrated by applying it to a real world instance.