Tutorials

Aim of tutorial one

This tutorial provides the background to establish an efficient demand curve to procure FS based on conventional distribution network planning exercises. Procurement efficiency is defined as competitiveness with respect to (w.r.t.) conventional optimal solutions that trade-off investment increase with congestions cost reduction and other possible benefits from quality of service improvement and losses reduction.

The first part of the tutorial will be dedicated to the changes needed in contingency analysis in order to characterize network congestions w.r.t. magnitude, duration and probability of occurrence. Once characterized, congestions need to be monetized before being traded-off against investment costs. Monetization requires congestion aggregation per cause and solution valuation per consequence. Examples from real use cases will be provided to illustrate the main challenges in characterizing network congestions in practice, and the role of the regulator in valuing possible investment solutions.

The second part of the tutorial will address the problem of valuing congestion management offers from FS providers based on their ability to defer investment costs in network reinforcements. A method that relies on the DCF methodology to estimate the cost of FS that would make the DSO indifferent between investment alternatives with different intervention by the flexibility market will be presented and discussed. Examples of congestions aggregation, FS procurement and market equilibrium solutions will be critically analysed in the light of practical experience with flexibility auctions.

Aim of tutorial two

This tutorial explores the role of circular economy (CE) principles, life cycle sustainability assessment (LCSA), and decarbonization strategies in the management and optimization of modern electricity grids. A key focus is on integrating Scope 3 emissions into grid sustainability reporting, emphasizing the indirect environmental impacts associated with infrastructure development, grid expansion, and related supply chain activities.

Grid operators face growing challenges in measuring and mitigating emissions beyond direct operations (Scope 1) and purchased electricity (Scope 2), particularly in Scope 3 categories such as upstream emissions from equipment manufacturing (e.g., transformers, cables, substations), maintenance, and end-of-life treatment of grid components. The presentation highlights methodologies for quantifying embedded carbon in power grid infrastructure, assessing life cycle emissions from renewable energy integration, and improving material efficiency in asset management.

Practical examples, including insights from Netz OÖ the Upper Austrian grid operator, will illustrate how regional grid operators are addressing these challenges and integrating sustainability criteria into grid planning and operations. Advanced sustainability assessment methods—including Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)—are explored as essential for evaluating grid decarbonization pathways and optimizing investment decisions. Special attention is given to carbon intensity variability of electricity generation, demand-side flexibility and the role of energy storage solutions in reducing grid-related emissions. The session also examines the impact of potential digitalization (e.g. real-time carbon monitoring and LCA twin modelling) in enhancing data-driven decision-making for climate action. The interconnection between renewable energy integration, grid flexibility, and supply chain decarbonization is discussed as a core strategy to support net-zero targets for grid operators and energy providers.

Aim of tutorial three

As the D-PMU technology becomes more mature and adopted, this tutorial aims at providing an in-depth analysis of Distribution PMU technology and explaining how it can help Distribution System operators to accelerate the grid digitalization process.