Year: 2026
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: As the deployment of DC segments in existing AC distribution grids becomes more common, network operators face a critical gap: the lack of planning tools capable of calculating feasible dispatch and voltage setpoints across both AC and DC domains. This paper presents how the Horizon Europe funded HYNET project aims to tackle the operational coordination of these tightly coupled sub-grids, where voltage limits and converter interactions must be managed simultaneously. We introduce a unified Optimal Power Flow tool designed to be able to handle hybrid AC/DC architectures. A key innovation of our solution lies in its practical implementation-the solver is embedded as a Python-based user defined tool within DIgSILENT PowerFactory, ensuring compatibility with the HYNET project toolchain. Validation is performed using modified Stagg's 5-bus and IEEE 33-bus systems. The proposed tool provides Distribution System Operators with technically consistent operating points, allowing them to assess emerging control strategies and architectures before real-world deployment.
Source: IET conference proceedings.
Institution: Budapest University of Technology and Economics
Language: English
Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7213734260