FAQs
What is the Connections Simulation Tool?
During the enquiry and application stages of the connection process, the tool can be used to perform studies which incorporates a plant model with the AEMO Australian Energy Market Operator's wide area model. This users to better design their generating system and then be confident that the study outcomes more accurately meet the acceptance criteria as defined in the rules.
What are the benefits of the Connections Simulation Tool?
The objective of the tool is to significantly streamline the applications process, reducing both risk and costs and reducing the iterations/time to complete connections approval. This includes AEMO’s time to assess and finalise new asynchronous plant connections.
Is the Connections Simulation Tool part of the connection process?
No. The connection process remains unchanged, and all plants need to go through the formal process to connect to the electricity grid. The Connections Simulation Tool can be used on prospective plants to fine tune models.
Is it mandatory to use the Connections Simulation Tool as part of the connection process?
No. The Connections Simulation Tool is an optional service.
What Wide Area model is used?
AEMO manages a complex model system representing the ever-changing NEM mainland electricity network. The model represents the current network augmented with recently committed plants. Our engineers will assess your case and configure the tool to best represent the network for your site.
If I use the Connections Simulation Tool, will my application to connect be automatically approved?
No. The tool enables users to fine tune models significantly but does not eliminate the need for AEMO to formally assess the application as part of the connection process. AEMO's Connection Process assessments are broad and when this is coupled with the changing nature of the network, users will encounter some variation in results. The expectation is that fewer iterations will be required to gain that approval if you have used the Connections Simulation Tool.
Is there a standard list of disturbances for each region?
Yes. There are predefined disturbances that can be utilised within the tool. Other required disturbances can be requested through the CST case creation process. If they cannot be incorporated for any reason, the AEMO team will communicate this with you.
What information is provided to assist with case creation?
AEMO provides relevant information to you through the system notes. This can include a disturbance list, PSSE case/single line diagrams, plot list, etc.
Can I upload multiple models into the system on a plant for one case?
Yes, you can upload an unlimited number of models with your case. In the CST case creation process, identify the model to be configured in the "Case Description" or "Additional Information" fields. You can also choose to recreate a case with one of the other models.
What format can files be in?
Your models need to be appropriately set up in PSCAD V5 (see the PSCAD v5 information sheet). You can also include PDF and DLL files. Please zip your files before you upload them. Do not upload password protected files.
What hours is support available?
Support is available during AEST business hours by email ConnectionsTool@aemo.com.au.
What is the timeframe submitting a case and it being ready to run studies?
Every endeavour is made to promptly respond to your needs. AEMO aims to make the tool available to you within two weeks of the request. However, at times this can change if the demand is high or further information is required.
Why did I get kicked off my VM?
Only a single user can access the PSCAD environment at any one time. If another user tries to access the environment, then the first user is disconnected and the second user has access. It does not impact a study run that has commenced.
How does version control work with multiple users work on one case?
No version control currently exists within the tool.
Can I provide tool access to people outside my company?
Yes. The PA Participant Administrator. Super-users who manage and perform system administration tasks for their own organisation’s participant users. can grant access to their cases to anyone. All users must adhere to the Terms of Use and relevant NERs.
Who can see cases?
Every person the PA has nominated can view all cases related to that company. It is important that your PA manages the group of members.
How long does it take to receive results from studies after requesting them?
After results are requested, an AEMO engineer reviews the results to ensure they can be distributed while adhering to the National Electricity Rules See Relevant Rules or Procedures. They will endeavour to forward the results within days of the request.