Grid simulation software to unlock future grid capacity

A partnership of ACCIONA, COBRA and Endeavour Energy (ACEREZ) will use next-generation cloud-based grid simulation software for large-scale application in the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) transmission network and will build 16 digital substations.

ACEREZ was appointed network operator by EnergyCo for the Central-West Orana REZ. The partnership is using PSSE software, part of Siemens’ Gridscale X portfolio.

This software, used for transmission planning, is claimed to enable faster and more scalable computing for network operators that can help save engineers up to 85% wait time in the design, operation and maintenance of the transmission network.

In addition to the grid simulation order, Siemens’ SIPROTEC 5, SICAM and RUGGEDCOM protection and automation technology, including digital twin capabilities, will be used, building 16 digital transmission substations in the Central-West Orana REZ.

Compared to traditional substations, digital substations are designed to deliver cost savings of 30–40%, reduce environmental impacts — including up to a 90% reduction in copper cabling — and accelerate project timelines by as much as 50%, to enhance both infrastructure resilience and economic viability.

Siemens Australia and New Zealand CEO Peter Halliday commended the project.

“ACEREZ is a showcase of leading technology and digitalisation. With digital substations we have seen copper reduced by 90% and concrete reduced by 75%. With grid simulation software we can make the best Siemens Australia and New Zealand, Communications and Government Affairs decisions before we even put a shovel in the ground. Ultimately, we help avoid unintended consequences. It’s good for business and good for the environment,” he said.

When operational, the Central-West Orana REZ transmission project will initially unlock up to 4.5 GW of network capacity, allowing generation and storage projects to connect at scale. This is expected to deliver $3 billion in net benefits for NSW energy consumers, drive $20 billion in private investment to the Central-West Orana region by 2030 and bring lasting economic benefits to the area, fostering a sustainable energy future for NSW and helping the state achieve its net zero targets.

Siemens technology will help simulate and analyse various aspects of the energy system — from optimising power flow to creating voltage stability. It will support grid stability and, ultimately, help speed up Australia’s energy transition.

In addition to Siemens’ technology being used, ACEREZ is also being supported by Siemens’ Power Technologies International (PTI) consultancy for energy infrastructure on the development of an automation framework to assess the compliance of new power plant PSSE models using a digital twin of the network.

PTI will help establish methodologies and requirements for conducting Small Signal Stability assessments on the new power plants.

“It’s great to see ACEREZ adopting groundbreaking technologies in their commitment to making a real difference to communities and future generations. Ultimately, people want a resilient grid delivering constant power, one that is sustainable and efficient,” Halliday said.

“The pathways to this are ensuring digitalisation at the heart of the grid, in the substations to increase the availability, reliability and sustainability of the entire power supply, and staying ahead of expectations by simulating what the future could look like. The end result is an improvement in the energy transition that is better for business, society and the environment.”

Image caption: Siemens grid management software. Image: Supplied.