The role of digital twins in power system automation and control: Necessity, requirements, and benefits

Recent developments in information technology and operational technology allow novel approaches to operate the electric power system. Thereby, the innovative Digital Twin (DT) is one of the most promising concepts as it addresses increasing requirements in terms of dynamic effects, cyber-physical anomaly detection, modelling accuracy and operator awareness. Based on a brief description of the DT concept and its requirements, we present the potential of DTs for automating power system operation. Special focus is given to modelling, simulation, and communication aspects. DT applications covering system operator coordination, anomaly detection and the coordination of DT-based models between the control centre and intelligent substations are presented. The user perspective is evaluated to provide applicable services and functions of DT-based control system modules. The concept is validated by exemplary numerical case studies.