Validation study of an open source extra-high voltage power grid model for Germany

This paper validates an energy system model for the German extra-high voltage grid, incorporating European grid interactions. We define the model as comprising a grid representation of physical elements (transformers, lines, substations, loads, and generators) and an energy system simulation based on linear optimization. Following open-source workflows from powerd-data and eTraGo, we create a highresolution simulation of the grid, reflecting the European generation mix, cross-border flows, and congestion management for the reference year 2019. We assess the modeled values against officially reported data using open-source validation. While the grid model shows acceptable correspondence with historical values, the simplified representation of neighboring countries as single nodes leads to systematic overestimations of German electricity imports and congestion management volume. Nonetheless, the model effectively captures key characteristics of the European energy landscape and seasonal variations in generation and trading.